Discover Lourdes and the Pyrénées with Christian Domec

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This circuit in the countryside around the village of Asson in the Pays de Nay takes you up the hillside in a steady climb so you can enjoy a beautiful clear view of the lowland and the first foothills of the Hautes-Pyrénées. It’s worth making some effort. This beautiful and intensive route, after taking you about two-thirds of the way into the forest, will lead you to a beautiful beech wood and the cabin of l’Isarce.

Confronted by Bigorre, which threatened her lands, the viscountess Margaret of Bearn signed a contract of protection that would ensure equality of rights and possessions with Arnaud Guilhem, the abbot of St Pé de Bigorre. From this political act, a new city between Bearn and Bigorre was born in 1308, a fortified town called Montaut, which would boost the economic and demographic development of the region. The chosen site, shielded from floods, was the Mons Altus, the High Mount, which became Montaut. Its extensive forests and subsoils rich with limestone led to the building of lime kilns, which would comfortably supply the needs of construction at the time and in the future.

A very beautiful and interesting circuit via side roads. Although with no great technical difficulties, this circuit is aimed at sporty people because of its length and its climb. A key element of Nay’s lowland landscape, the canals have existed since the Middle Ages. They were used for irrigation and to power mills and hammers. Their role was essential in the development of industry in Nay during the 19th century. The water intake of Coarraze in the right bank gives rise to the canal of the Lagoin, which supplies the stream of the same name and the lowland canal. Left bank upstream of the Claracq bridge, the Grau canal flows into the Escourre and creates the Gaou canal. From these canals and streams flow a number of small irrigation channels.

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.

The name "Coume a Case" means "like home" in Béarnais, and that's what we're offering you: a pleasant, relaxing stay in a rural setting. Situated at the entrance to the Ossau valley, the fully self-contained, recently renovated gîte is the perfect place to recharge your batteries as a family, with friends or as a couple. Comprising a cosy living room with wood-burning stove, fully-equipped kitchen, 3 bedrooms upstairs and outside: an enclosed garden, shaded terrace and relaxation spa.

Would you like to spend an unusual, romantic night in a bubble under the stars? Come and discover the Reves2bulles estate, located near Pau, the Pyrenees and the Atlantic coast, and cut yourself off from everyday life for a night, a weekend or more, as a couple or with friends. In the evening, you'll be able to watch the sunset and the stars come out from your cosy bed. You'll never want to close your eyes again! A unique experience for two, in a fully heated, semi-transparent bubble.

Discover Béarn, Pau and its valleys while enjoying a fondue like you've never tasted before. Laurent, a native of Béarn, has selected the most beautiful itineraries for you. You can download the itinerary of your hike onto your cell phone, or take the topographical map with you. On the menu, local products from short circuits, selected to offer the best to your taste buds. All tours are no more than 1 hour from the capital of Béarn. Fondue kit and itineraries included.

In Sévignacq-Meyracq, at the entrance to the Ossau Valley, this 17th century property welcomes you for a comfortable stay. The gîte, which sleeps 14, is housed in a tastefully renovated former cowshed. The 8,300m² grounds feature a swimming pool and an orchard surrounded by pastures with views of the Pyrenees.

In a valley with preserved natural landscapes, the lodging " Le Balcon du Rey d'Ossau " took place. In the peace, in front of the mountains! Evelyne welcomes you in her comfortable gîte on the ground floor of her house. The gite is also accessible for people with reduced mobility. Outside, covered terrace and barbecue for your summer evenings.

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 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

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.

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.

In the old times, the road crossed the Lapacca River on the Arrieux Bridge and climbed up the “rue Basse”. In 1844 was built the “chaussée Maransin” to avoid this steep section. The Lapacca River, underground since 1883, flows under the square and the boulevard towards the Gave River. Its course allowed to operate some watermills. The Lapacca square became Jeanne d’Arc square after her beatification in 1909.

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.

At the bottom of the “rue Basse” was the gate tower of the north entrance of Lourdes. People entered into the city by the Enjouan slope to arrive at the Arrieux Bridge where this gate tower was standing. It was destroyed in 1804. Up the Lapacca river is still a tower of the 13th century, the last vestige of a fortified county watermill.

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.

The fountain of the three nozzles is the oldest fountain in Lourdes, representing the lively centre of the city in the Middle Ages. It was modified in 1811. In 1881, the municipality council decided to renovate it totally. Three copper nozzles were installed to regulate its flow, thus giving it its name: “la fontaine aux trois becs” (the fountain of the three nozzles). Today it still keeps its features of 1881.

The street “rue Bernadette Soubirous” constitutes the old watermills area, in the heart of Bernadette’s daily life: she was born and had lived for ten years at Moulin de Boly; then the Soubirous family was forced by misfortune to move to several precarious domiciles. Mgr. Laurence had rented then bought in 1867 the Moulin Lacadé to preserve Bernadette’s father from misery: from there its name of “Maison Paternelle” (the Paternal House).

This was originally probably a major gate tower because it led directly to the northern point of the “rue du Bourg”, and above all to the horse ramp leading to the fortified castle. The entrance of the castle ramp had probably its own system of gate tower, or of small entrance castle. In 1810, this entrance to the city was destroyed on request of the Dauzat-d’Embarrère family.

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 the charming village of Montaut, the "O Jour le Jour" restaurant invites you to enjoy a traditional culinary experience. Ideally located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region, the restaurant enjoys a privileged position close to Pau, Lourdes and Tarbes. Easily accessible, the "Ô Jour le Jour" restaurant is the perfect destination for a lunch break. Whether you're just passing through, on vacation or a local resident, come and discover this haven of peace where gastronomy blends with the beauty of our heritage. Enjoy a meal on the sunny terrace in summer, or let yourself be seduced by the warm, intimate atmosphere of the indoor dining room.

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.

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.

Located in the Intermarché shopping zone in the village of Coarraze, Antonio welcomes you to his friendly Pizza Mona restaurant. The chef offers quality Italian cuisine with a varied range of well-stuffed pizzas with crisp, thin dough, as well as salads and pasta dishes to be eaten on the spot in a friendly, pleasant atmosphere inside or on the terrace. You can also have take away.

Lou Papà, located in Asson in the Pyrenees in the Ouzom valley, is a pizzeria. Marjaurie, welcomes you to her restaurant Lou Papa, where taking the time to relax and savor regional products is a pleasure. It's a convivial place for a gourmet break, offering homemade pizzas and pasta made with local ingredients, with a grocery store selling local beers and Béarn products. Whether you want to relax on the terrace or take your meals away, Lou Papà is ideal for those who enjoy simple, delicious moments.

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.

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.

The charming flower-filled village of Saint-Vincent lies at the heart of a number of footpaths, including the Chemin Henri IV. Its hillside is home to a number of guest rooms with views over the valley and its extensive landscapes, from where you can hear the neighing of horses nearby. Sylvie welcomes you to her guest rooms: les 3 collines. These cosy rooms are set in a restored Béarnaise property and have a different atmosphere: Mineral, Eucalyptus and Chocolate. There is a tea corner where you can read or play the board games provided. You might even hear the territorial song of the green woodpecker in the early hours of the morning. After a day of sightseeing, your host Sylvie will give you a warm welcome with the wellness facilities on offer: sauna, massage and body modelling.

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.

The Millepertuis gîte is a pretty barn renovated by Nathalie and Philippe, facing the Pyrenees. Large bay windows open onto a large wooden terrace overlooking the vast meadows and farmland of the village of Montaut. The single-storey layout is functional and accessible to people with disabilities. The house is bathed in a soft, pleasant atmosphere, combining contemporary style with exposed beams and restored furniture.

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.

Just a few kilometres from Lourdes, in the bastide town of Montaut, you'll find the Ty Heol Glaz bed and breakfast. This Breton-sounding name is a nod to the region where Nicole, the owner, was born. The house in which you'll be staying is a large 18th-century Béarnaise building overlooking a beautifully wooded garden and the Pyrenean foothills. The three spacious, colourful bedrooms can accommodate up to 10 people. After a day full of sightseeing (Bétharram caves, sanctuary, nearby white-water activities), head to the garden for a relaxing break in the pool.