Camping Esplantats: Discover Sarrancolin's Hidden Gems

Discover one of the most beautiful valleys in the Pyrenees at your own pace, on foot or by bike. All along this 17 km route, you will find information about the villages around you and services on offer. Their rich heritage is well worth the visit! Nature fans will constantly be tempted to adventure off the trail on either side to explore the:  Lavedan paths  Gave river-bank paths  mountain-bike and bicycle paths

Summary : Visit of the town of Lourdes on the eve of the Apparitions Duration : approx. 2hrs The visit begins in front of the Tourist Office.

The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in 1h30mn includes seventeen points of interest.

Evoking Lourdes in the Middle Ages is a historical itinerary reminding the medieval city of Lorda, former name of Lourdes, protected by its two rows of fortifications with twelve towers and nestled at the bottom of the fortified castle – place of residence of the counts of Bigorre since the 11th century. This itinerary, partly virtual, transports the visitors some centuries back. The illustrated boards present a retrospective overview of the medieval city of Lourdes. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes eleven points of interest. The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes seventeen points of interest.

Three basilicas and three types of art in the Sanctuaries of Our Lady of Lourdes (Afternoon visits are preferable, after the morning services and before the procession at 17.00h)

Come and stroll through this pretty Béarn town on the banks of the river Ousse. A 13th-century tower, part of the town?s ramparts and the 14th-century Gothic church still stand. In Place Du Barry stands a bronze goose, the advanced sentinel of Béarn, once responsible for warning Béarn towns threatened by invaders from Bigorre. The town?s coat of arms features a Latin motto: Melior vigilentia somno (Better watch than sleep). A 2 km circuit entitled "Pontacq, a heritage along the water" takes you on a tour of Pontacq's beautiful heritage. Open to all, all year round.

This lovely walk will take you down the Biros valley to admire the Etang d'Araing, nestling at the foot of the Pic du Crabère. Bordered by the GR10, the refuge overlooking it can be a stopover for discovering other natural beauties of the Biros. Additional information: We strongly advise against hiking the Etang d'Araing in winter (avalanche paths).

It is said that this path was the one that Henri IV used to take from Pau to go hunting in the woods of Lourdes. It is on the hillside, long predates the good king and dates back to the protohistoric period. It enabled travellers to avoid the marshlands of the Plaine de Nay and the Gave de Pau. The Road to Santiago, between Lourdes, Pau and Lescar, from the dolmen of the Peyre Duzets, to Caesar’s Fort (le Fort de Cesar) by way of the ruins of Gleise Pause; the etymology and the vestiges of the past tell the story of a path that, way before having the name of a king, was a route between cities. Later on, villages and roads were built in the plain, which, with the change in climate and the work of men, dried out.

A looping route starting from the typical village of Buzan siuté on the southern slopes of the Bellongue valley, through deciduous forests and replanted Douglas fir.. Lookout point on the northern ridge with views over the valley and the peaks of the Couserans

Come and discover history thanks to the old mines set in stone. With its wide open spaces and the remains of an industry from another era, the Bentaillou never leaves you indifferent. The mines provide great souvenir photos of the Couserans. Here, history seems to have permeated the stone. From Zola's world to a Western setting, Bentaillou never leaves you indifferent.

Set up in the natural canyon carved out of the Pyrenees by the River Ardour, this via ferrata course is a fun and sporty way for families or groups of friends to make the most out of the stunning landscapes. SET UP IN THE NATURAL CANYON CARVED OUT OF THE PYRENEES BY THE RIVER ARDOUR, THIS VIA FERRATA COURSE IS A FUN AND SPORTY WAY FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS OF FRIENDS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE STUNNING LANDSCAPES. Zip lines, rope swings, monkey bridges, and all kinds of challenges await you within this exceptional site. Make your way along the rock face, following the cable that's fixed into the stone with the aid of well-placed hand and footholds: thrills guaranteed! The itinerary is adapted for all levels, from 3 to 83 years! An activity leader will be present to take care of the little kids while the bigger ones take on the via ferrata course accompanied by expert mountain guides. The itinerary is fully secure and all equipment adheres to strict safety regulations. You will be provided with everything you need: harness, helmet, ropes and carabiners. At the end of your activity, tea and coffee will be served in a traditional shepherd's hut. All participants, young and old, will be presented with an Ardour climbing certificate, as well as photos and a personalized film of the day's highlights.

This unique experience plunges you into the depths of the Grottes de Betharram for a 45-minute tour. By foot, by boat and by train, discover all of the curious features present in the underground galleries and chambers! BY FOOT, BY BOAT, AND EVEN BY TRAIN: SPEND 80 MINUTES DISCOVERING THE CURIOUS UNDERGROUND PASSAGES AND CHAMBERS OF THE GROTTES DE BATHARRAM! Your itinerary begins with the upper section of the caves, which is composed of vast galleries and immense chambers adorned with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. You will then descend an 80-metre abyss where, accompanied by your guide, you'll take to the underground river in a small boat. To finish the tour, you'll then board a little train that follows a 700-metre subterranean trail. Take advantage of this activity to embark on a quirky underground adventure!

Near Nay and Lourdes, the Vieux Logis hotel-restaurant is located a few steps from the region's most important tourist site, the Bétharram grottos. This family home has been lovingly converted into a charming hotel complex by their owners, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye. Today, the hotel-restaurant offers a contemporary décor. With its 28 rooms labelled Logis (3 "cocottes" and 3 "fireplaces"), and its 5 huts ("Insolite By Logis"), this establishment is a safe bet as much for the quality of the reception and its rooms, as for its restaurant. The cuisine served showcases the local gastronomy.

Situated in Coarraze, at the foot of the Pyrenees, this accommodation is ideally located for exploring the region. It is close to iconic towns such as Pau, Lourdes and just 68 km from the Spanish border, offering easy access to the mountain scenery and local attractions. Winter sports enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of ski resorts such as Gourette and Cauterets, while the Pays de Nay tourist office makes it easy to explore the surrounding area. The flat is located above the owners in a house surrounded by a garden. The flat has two bedrooms, a sofa and a fully equipped kitchen. Outside, travellers can enjoy a barbecue and a green space for relaxation, located near a stream, and benefit from a key box for independent arrival.

We are delighted to welcome you to the ski resort of Gourette, on the Valentin valley, on the GR10 towards the Col de Tortes. The 200 m outward and 180 m return zip lines are suspended on a cable between two mountains. They are accessible to everyone aged 5 and over. The sensations are guaranteed for zero effort! A guide is on hand to welcome you. The harnesses are not suitable for people with a very wide pelvis.

In the Ossau Valley, on top of the resort, among the pines and larches, facing the cirque of Gourette, on the road of the legendary Aubisque pass. 143 housing, located south. Relaxation area with sauna, steam room, fitness and solarium overlooking the ski area and surrounding mountains, for your parties, the panoramic restaurant Club offers the finest spectacles: a one-on-one with the snowy peaks! Nightly entertainment, club for children from 3 to 10 years and junior and teen club.

In the heart of the resort of Gourette, this apartment welcomes you for a stay in front of the circus of Gourette, in the ascent to the pass of Aubisque. Ideal location for a successful stay in the mountains... You will be able to access the ski area in winter as well as the multiple hikes on the cirque of Gourette and the Col d'Aubisque in summer

On the road to the Col d'Aubisque, in the heart of the resort of Gourette, the apartment "Le Skidoux" offers a breathtaking view of the cirque of Gourette from its large terrace. Its location is ideal for a successful stay in the mountains, whether in winter or summer. Located at the foot of the slopes, it will delight lovers of skiing, hiking and the great outdoors.

Gourette: ultramodern equipments, snowmaking network from 1400 m. Easy access to the station by the gondola that takes you to the heart of the resort from the parking Ley (free) - Beginners have their own area: the Happy Place, space dedicated to learning, equipped with green slopes, carpets, chairlift, animation workshops, events, mountain restaurant, starting course of snowshoeing, Nordic bath, outdoor sauna, night in an igloo, snake gliss. 16 lifts. 28 tracks, 2 mountain restaurants, ski school, and independent monitor, snow parks, boardercross, rail park, pump park N'Py Moov and big air. Member of N'PY network.

On the Col d'Aubisque road, in the heart of the Gourette resort, the P'tit Manabi studio offers a breathtaking view of the Gourette cirque from its balcony/terrace. Completely renovated, its location is ideal for a successful stay in the mountains, whether in winter or summer. Situated at the foot of the slopes, it will delight lovers of skiing, hiking and the great outdoors.

Sanctuaire dédié à la Vierge Marie, très connu dans la région.Point d'eau et tables de pique-nique.Dans cette clairière, le sentier balisé part vers la droite ; cependant vous pouvez aller jusqu'à la chapelle, (point d’eau), la contourner à l'arrière pour revenir sur le sentier qui descend dans le bois sur le versant nord (panneau indiquant Roche aux corbeaux et fontaine-attention, pour la fontaine accès pentu et non balisé-). Suivez le sentier qui descend en sous-bois vers les affleurements de roches calcaires de la Roche aux corbeaux. Passez auprès de celle-ci et suivez le sentier pentu. Plus bas, à l'intersection avec une piste plus large, tournez à gauche et redescendez en direction de la route goudronnée en bas du chemin de croix.Alternative : possibilité lorsque vous êtes à la chapelle, de redescendre vers votre véhicule en empruntant la route goudronnée qui suit le calvaire. A la croix VII, vue panoramique sur le village de Valentine, la centrale EDF, le lac de Sède.

The development of Lourdes is connected to pilgrims’ trains. On March 9, 1866 the station was inaugurated and the first steam engine reached Lourdes on March 27. In 1887, the definitive station was finished with its metallic structure and its 92 meters long platforms. For the fiftieth anniversary of the Apparitions, up to 300 000 pilgrims came to Lourdes by train, the beginnings of the arrival of countless crowds on the 20th century.

The baptismal basin, made of marble from Lourdes, is dated from the Roman ages. Bernadette Soubirous was baptised on 9 January 1844 over these basins which were originally in the former Saint-Pierre church.

The construction of the Sacré-Cœur parish church started in 1875 on the request of Abbot Peyramale. It was inaugurated in 1903 and the bell tower was finished in 1936. Abbot Peyramale’s grave can be seen in the crypt.

This half tower, situated in the southwest angle of the first fortification row in front of the defence line, was built on a small cliff and dominated the market square. The fortification wall had been opened for the alley but it is still present in the wall of the building facing it. There is also a turret surrounded by a small garden, from the Jerusalem Hospitallers’ house.

The Roman church was built in the 11th century and housed a necropolis of sarcophaguses made of stone from the Béout. It was destroyed in 1904-1907 because the authorities judged that it was too small and too antiquated to foster the crowds coming to Lourdes. Its furniture, such as some decorative elements, is preserved in the Musée Pyrénéen. In 1991, the foundations of a square tower and a crossing point of antic ways were found.

On March 25, 1858 Bernadette transmitted here in Occitan to Abbot Peyramale the words of the Apparition: « I am the Immaculate Conception ». In 1973, the descendants of Lacour, owners of the building since 1922, transferred it to the city of Lourdes which established there the community library until 2007. The building keeps untouched one part of the wall of its old garden as well as the door through which Bernadette went in.

In the hospice, Bernadette Soubirous attended religious instruction classes before the Apparitions. On June 3, 1858 she did there her first holy communion. After the Apparitions, she was admitted as a boarder to protect her against visitors’ harassment and to get an education. Finally, she left definitely Lourdes on July 4, 1866 to join Saint-Gildard convent in Nevers.

Bernadette Soubirous had lived in this room of 16 m² with her parents, her sister and both her brothers from May of 1856 until mid-September of 1858. This hovel was the former dungeon of Lourdes, abandoned in 1824. This was the domicile of the Soubirous family during the Apparitions. They left that place in September to live at the Deluc’s place, a pastry cook on place Marcadal.

The Garnavie tower (13th century) was named originally the Guigne tower because of its perfect location to keep a close eye on the village and then the castle at a glance. Then it took the name of the part of town where it stands. This tower, a property of the community, has survived the city urbanisation. Listed on the additional Inventory of National Heritage in 1946, it was restored in 1994.

La Faim du monde is a multi-faceted place: restaurant, café-bar, library, performance space, a place for artistic and cultural experimentation. The dishes are traditional, homemade and inspired by the world, in a warm, natural atmosphere. Here, people meet, eat, learn and bond in a natural setting in the heart of the Ariège region. Theater artists, musicians, storytellers, gatherers, neighbors, letter carriers and Mamie Josette come together to share a meal, a drink, regional specialties from here and abroad, play an escape-game or teach sign language to the little ones. The restaurant is committed to an eco-responsible approach, choosing local produce (everything that grows in Ariège and neighbouring departments), respecting seasonality and homemade. Culinary specialities: Fresh fish, but also meat dishes. Vegetarians welcome.

Right in the heart of town, ideally located between Pau, Tarbes and Lourdes, the Hôtel du Commerce serves authentic gourmet cuisine. "A friendly place where you can eat well" is how regulars describe the place. For meat lovers, there's the popular grilled entrecôte de b?uf, coq au vin, the unmissable omelette aux cèpes, paëlla, cruji coques and a variety of desserts. Something for everyone's taste buds...

Located not far from the center of Pontacq, the café de France will serve you its "bistro" cuisine with market products. The chef will share with you his traditional cooking modernized according to the seasons with fresh products. For the amateurs of good meat, the false net garni is proposed every day!

Located at the entrance of the town of Pontacq, not far from Tarbes and Lourdes, this small restaurant is worth a visit. Lovers of good food and nice atmosphere, this restaurant cellar wine bar is for you. You will be served fresh dishes changing according to the seasons: piquillos stuffed with meat or fish, oyster mushrooms, melted camembert and walnut salad, seafood risotto are some of the dishes on offer, all accompanied by a good little wine proposed by the chef.

The Restaurant Le Vieux Logis is ideally located at the foot of the Pyrenees, in an authentic and peaceful natural environment, between Nay in Béarn and Lourdes in Bigorre. From there, you are every close to the track of the way of Piedmont, one of the paths towards Santiago de Compostela and on the véloroute V 81 Pyrénées-Gave-Adour. Close to the famous Bétharram Grottos, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye's restaurant offers country cuisine highlighting local producers. From here, you are close to the passage of the voie du Piémont, one of the roads to Santiago de Compostela. The restaurant has also been awarded 3 "cocottes" in the Logis guide making it one of the region's essential restaurants.

Located in Bénéjacq, in the heart of the village and on the main square close to the shops, Les Petits Gourmands restaurant is the fusion of two restaurants: La Pizz' and Tirant d'Eau. Freddy and his team welcome you to a culinary pole with several types of restaurant. In the morning, you'll find a bread and pastry shop for a gourmet break. At lunchtime, your restaurant owners offer traditional brasserie-style dining. In the evening, try the homemade pizzas prepared by Freddy and Jonathan (takeaway from October to June and eat-in and takeaway from June to October). The restaurant comes alive two nights a week on Friday and Saturday evenings with bistro-bar evenings. The roast chicken at Sunday lunchtime will not leave you indifferent.

The "Bistrot - Restaurant Chez Simon" is located on Route Départementale 817, between Pau and Tarbes, on the "Haut d'Espoey", equidistant from Pau and Tarbes. Chef Simon has created a place inspired by the "pleasure of giving pleasure". Each and every one of us will find an atmosphere, a setting and a cuisine to suit our expectations. The Bistro atmosphere, where you can share a warm, friendly moment over a drink. Restaurant-style, where you can enjoy gourmet dishes indoors or out. Simon's cuisine is inspired by the delicacies of our grandmothers, combined with the savoir-faire of French gastronomy. Between land and sea and sweet and savory.

Located on the Haut d'Espoey between Tarbes and Lourdes, this family-run restaurant serves generous, gourmet cuisine concocted by passionate chef Pierre. The dishes are different every day, so there's no set menu, just the inspiration of the moment and the desire to help customers discover new flavors: poached eggs with pumpkin cream, duck parmentier, truffle purée, fresh verbena panacotta with strawberry coulis? On Saturday lunchtimes, La Halte transforms itself into a "bistronomic" establishment, offering refined dishes as beautiful as they are delicious: truffle purée, guinea fowl ballotins, low-temperature boletus stuffing with carrot mousseline au siphon.

Located in the heart of the charming village of Igon, Chez Ludo restaurant offers a gastronomic getaway to Italy with authentic cuisine. Headed by Chef Ludo, this warm and friendly venue offers dishes and pizzas featuring local and seasonal produce. In a rustic, intimate setting, every visit to Chez Ludo promises a culinary break with the flavors of Italy to the delight of guests.

Dominando el Torrente pirenaico de Pau, el pueblo de Coarraze está situado al pie de los Pirineos entre Pau y Lourdes. Es en el pueblo típico de Béarn, en lo que el restaurante el Bienvenido le acoge y donde a los habitantes locales les gusta encontrarse. Su jefe Olivier, le propone una cocina amistosa a base de productos locales con diferentes fórmulas: platos del día, à la carte y también su menú especial " Gallina al Pote " sobre reserva.

Come and discover this charming, quiet family campsite just outside Guéret, ideally situated for a peaceful vacation. Direct access to the lake, beach, summer activities, fishing...

On the banks of the river, this Logis Essentiel*** hotel welcomes you to the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional on the Route des Cols. In the heart of the village, you'll be welcomed in our Logis*** hotel, with comfortable rooms meeting today's standards, equipped with bathroom, television, kettle.... On the route des cols for cycling enthusiasts, everything has been thought of to welcome you when you visit. Whether you're a mountain biker or a road cyclist, .... is a pure delight! For hiking enthusiasts, there are numerous trails starting right from the village, not forgetting the many walks in nearby villages. Local craftsmen and craftswomen in our canton have a wealth of wonderful things to offer. For your enjoyment, the inn offers a restaurant with local flavours.

The Étang d'Araing refuge is a refuge in the French Pyrenees, situated at an altitude of 1965 m in the extreme south-west of the Ariège department, at the foot of the Crabère peak, on the GR10.

Right next door to their old-fashioned house is the nursery where Claudine and Charles will welcome you to their camping-garden, a haven of greenery and calm, ideal for a relaxing vacation and to recharge your batteries. The camping-garden has 12 pitches of 80 to 100 m2, grassy, flat, shady and bordered by flowering hedges (over 300 species or varieties of ornamental plants or fruit trees). We specialize in old varieties of southwestern fruit trees and apple juice production. Claudine and Charles also offer 2 traditional tepee accommodations.

Located at the crossroads of the Hautes-Pyrénées and Pyrénées-Atlantiques, just 15 minutes from Lourdes, this recently renovated family hotel is ideal for a business or tourist stopover You will stay in one of our 15 cosy rooms which will ensure you calm and comfort. We have two family rooms for 5 people and one quadruple room for 4 people. At the table of our restaurant, you will enjoy a traditional and tasty cuisine with a special emphasis on local products.

In the heart of the village of Pontacq, a small village in the Bearn region not far from Lourdes, you will be welcomed in a family suite occupying the entire attic floor of an 18th century Bearn house, which opens onto a park full of flowers and enclosed. You will have your breakfast in the living room by the fireplace and will be able to take advantage of the enclosed garden in a calm and private setting.

A stopover on the GR10, the Tour du Biros or the Passaran loop, the Eylie gîte d'étape welcomes all overnight hikers. In the heart of the Pyrenees, at the end of the Couserans, in the Biros valley, at an altitude of 1000m, on the GR10, the Eylie stopover gîte welcomes all overnight hikers. Sleeping capacity is 14 in 2 dormitories. Meals available on a 1/2-board basis. Please bring a sleeping bag or comforter for the dormitory. Pets are not allowed.

Between Nay and Lourdes, in Lestelle-Bétharram, this fully renovated old house adjoining the owners' home, offers a beautiful view of the plains and mountains. This house has two large bedrooms and everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Outside, you can enjoy a large park with its south facing terrace, la plancha, ping-pong table as well as the volleyball net. The region being rich in cultural heritage, you will be able to explore the walled town of Lestelle-Bétharram and the Bétharram Grottos. You could also walk to the Croix des Hauteurs, which is very close to the cottage, and enjoy its breath-taking views. For lovers of aquatic life, the Gave de Pau is bursting with fishing spots.

The charming flower-filled village of Saint-Vincent lies at the heart of a number of hiking trails, including the Chemin Henri IV. It is home to La Colline des Chênes accommodation, set on its hillsides, with a view over the valley and its extensive countryside, from where you can hear the neighing of horses nearby. Sylvie welcomes you to a self-catering cottage in a Béarn-style property. This cosy accommodation sleeps 4. Relax away from the stress of everyday life by taking advantage of the facilities on offer, such as the swimming pool, reading, board games and over 5000m² of grounds with outdoor games. You might even hear the territorial song of the green woodpecker in the early hours of the morning. After a walk along the Chemin Henri IV, you will be warmly welcomed by your host Sylvie with the wellness facilities on site: sauna, massage and body modelling.

The charming flower-filled village of Saint-Vincent lies at the heart of a number of hiking trails, including the Chemin Henri IV. It is home to the La Colline au Balcon accommodation on its hillsides, with views over the valley and its extensive countryside, from where you can hear the neighing of horses nearby. Sylvie welcomes you to a self-catering cottage set in a Béarn-style property. This cosy accommodation sleeps 4. Relax away from the stress of everyday life by taking advantage of the amenities on offer, including a swimming pool, reading room, board games and over 5000m² of grounds with outdoor games. You might even hear the territorial song of the green woodpecker in the early hours of the morning. After a walk along the Chemin Henri IV, you will be warmly welcomed by your host Sylvie with the wellness facilities on site: sauna, massage and body modelling.