Visiting Lourdes
Lourdes, where heritage and spirituality meet
Tucked away in the Hautes-Pyrénées, in the historic region of Bigorre, Lourdes is nestled in the heart of Occitanie’s majestic natural beauty. With more than 13,000 inhabitants, this iconic town offers a unique blend of spiritual depth, cultural heritage, and vibrant local traditions.
While globally known for its Sanctuary and its deep pilgrimage spirit, Lourdes also enchants visitors with its authentic charm, welcoming atmosphere, and pristine mountain scenery. It’s a place where sacred tranquility and the grandeur of the Pyrenees come together to create a profoundly moving and restorative experience.
Lourdes Fortress and Pyrenean Museum
Perched above the city, this medieval fortress offers stunning panoramic views and is home to the Pyrenean Museum, dedicated to regional arts and popular traditions.
The Beating Heart of Lourdes
A true hub of daily life, the market halls welcome visitors every day from 6:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Here, you’ll discover a variety of local products typical of Lourdes and the Gaves Valley — from fresh produce and regional cheeses to charcuterie, honey, and handcrafted items. A perfect stop to taste the local culture and meet the people who bring it to life.
Le moulin de Boly
Visit the Birthplace of Bernadette Soubirous
Step into the family home where Bernadette-Marie Soubirous was born on January 7, 1844, and discover the humble beginnings of the young girl who would one day change the history of Lourdes.
📍 Rue Bernadette Soubirous – 65100 Lourdes
📞 Tel: +33 (0)5 62 42 16 36
Le Cachot
Bernadette’s Home During the Apparitions
A single 16 m² room where the Soubirous family lived from 1856 to late 1858. This modest space was Bernadette’s residence during the time of the apparitions, from February 11 to July 16, 1858.
📍 Rue des Petits Fossés – 65100 Lourdes
📞 Tel: +33 (0)5 62 94 51 30
The Path from Lourdes to Bartrès
This is the route Bernadette followed during her childhood to travel on foot between Lourdes and the village of Bartrès.
The footpath was reopened in the Jubilee Year 2000, offering pilgrims a chance to walk in her footsteps.
Today, this pilgrimage-only path invites visitors to reflect and reconnect with the spiritual journey of Bernadette in a peaceful, natural setting.
Museums
The Lourdes Museum
Step into the fascinating story of Bernadette Soubirous and witness the events that marked the time of the apparitions. A moving journey through history and faith.
The Little Lourdes Museum
Travel back in time with a miniature reconstruction of Lourdes as it was in Bernadette’s day. A charming and educational experience for all ages.
The Wax Museum
Meet life-size wax figures that bring to life the story of Bernadette, the humble shepherdess of Bartrès, and the people who marked her path. A vivid way to relive the history of Lourdes.
Things to See & Do in Lourdes
The Lourdes Market: A Journey into Local Traditions
In Lourdes, the market is much more than a shopping destination—it’s a lively meeting place where colors, scents, and traditions come to life. Several times a week, the streets are filled with a warm, authentic atmosphere, uniting local producers, artisans, and visitors in search of discovery.
Flavors of the Pyrenees
Taste regional delights such as artisan charcuterie, aged cheeses, mountain honey, and the famous Pyrenean trout—a must for every food lover.
Fresh & seasonal products
Enjoy locally grown vegetables, sun-kissed fruits, aromatic herbs, and a wide selection of farm-fresh goods.
Local craftsmanship
Discover handmade wooden pieces, traditional pottery, authentic souvenirs, and unique artisanal creations.
Wandering through the market, chatting with passionate producers, and sampling local flavors is an immersive experience that reflects the true soul of Lourdes and the richness of Pyrenean heritage.
Lake Lourdes: A Natural Haven of Peace and Relaxation
Just a few minutes from the town center, Lake Lourdes offers a quiet escape into unspoiled nature. Nestled among gentle hills and ancient woodlands, this serene spot is the ideal place to relax, recharge, and explore.
Scenic walks & hiking paths
A lakeside trail offers panoramic views of the Pyrenees, ideal for a peaceful stroll or energizing hike.
Outdoor leisure activities
Whether you’re into fishing, paddleboarding, golfing, or simply enjoying a family picnic, there’s something for everyone.
Wildlife & nature observation
Birdwatchers and nature lovers will enjoy the lake’s diverse flora and fauna, making it a quiet sanctuary for contemplation.
Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Lake Lourdes is a perfect place to reconnect with the rhythms of nature.
Lourdes: A Unique Destination of History, Nature & Spirituality
Rooted in centuries of pilgrimage and tradition, Lourdes is a destination like no other—where spiritual depth, natural beauty, and cultural richness converge.
From moments of reflection at the Sanctuaries, to the vibrant life of the market, or peaceful escapes to the lake, every experience in Lourdes is infused with meaning.
Lourdes is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel, to breathe, and to remember.