Lourdes, France is a small town located in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains in the Occitanie region of the southwestern part of France. It's a popular tourist destination thanks to its religious significance and stunning landscape.
Lourdes is most famous for its religious history and is a major Catholic pilgrimage site. The town is built around the grotto where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to a young girl named Bernadette Soubirous in 1858, an event that became known as the Marian Apparition. Today, millions of pilgrims from all over the world visit Lourdes each year to pray for physical and spiritual healing.
Aside from the spiritual aspect, Lourdes is also a great place to explore for its scenic beauty. The town is surrounded by ancient forests, meadows, and rivers, as well as dramatic mountain peaks. Hiking and biking trails wind their way around the area, and visitors can also take part in activities such as rafting, kayaking, and rock climbing.
Lourdes is also home to a range of cultural attractions, including the Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes, a complex of chapels and churches built in the 19th century; the Musée Pyrénéen, which houses a permanent collection of artifacts from the region; and the Musée Grevin, a wax museum.
Whether you’re a spiritual pilgrim or an outdoor enthusiast, Lourdes makes for a unique and memorable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Grand Hotel Gallia & Londres: Located in the heart of Lourdes, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations and a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness centre, and an outdoor pool.
2. Hôtel Roissy: Located near the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, this hotel offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a bar.
3. Hôtel Le Parc: This hotel is located close to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and features comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
4. Hôtel St-Joseph: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and is conveniently located close to the train station and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.
5. Hôtel Le Grand Ducal: This hotel is located close to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
1. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes: This site is home to a number of religious monuments, including a basilica, the Grotto of Massabielle, and the baths of Lourdes where pilgrims come to bathe in the waters believed to have healing powers.
2. Chateau Fort de Lourdes: This spectacular castle is one of the most impressive sights in Lourdes, boasting an incredible history and a range of special exhibits dedicated to the history of the area.
3. Pic du Jer: This is a stunning viewpoint that overlooks the city from an elevation of 905 meters and offers some of the best views of Lourdes.
4. Cote de Pau: This is a stunning stretch of beach along the Adour River that offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and other outdoor activities.
5. Le Petit Train de Lourdes: This is a fun and informative tour of the city in a miniature train, offering a great way to get to know the area and its landmarks.
1. La Poule Au Pot: This classic French dish is a whole chicken cooked in a large pot with vegetables, herbs, and wine, creating a savory and flavorful meal.
2. Cassoulet: This traditional dish from the south of France consists of white beans cooked with pork, goose, duck, and sausage in a tomato-based sauce.
3. Duck Confit: This dish is made by slowly cooking duck legs in their own fat. The result is a crispy and flavorful meal.
4. Foie Gras: This luxury dish is made from the fattened liver of a duck or goose. It is usually served as a terrine or mousse, and is often accompanied by a glass of sweet dessert wine.
5. Le Tourin: This soup is made with garlic, onions, and vegetables, and is often served with croutons or slices of baguette.