Lourdes: between heritage and spirituality

Written by Lisa Abitbol

Published on October 3, 2024, modified on January 9, 2025

If you're looking to escape from Paris for a relaxing weekend, filled with spirituality and cultural discovery, Lourdes is an ideal destination. Nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees, this town immerses you in an enchanting setting where nature and history blend with a spiritual atmosphere. I was lucky enough to spend a weekend there, and I'm sharing my itinerary with you to make the most of this unique destination!

Day 1: A day between heritage and nature

Visit to the Château fort de Lourdes

I started with a must-see: the **Château fort de Lourdes**. This medieval fortress, classified as a historical monument, offers an incredible view of the town and the surrounding mountains. In addition to a spectacular panorama, you can explore the history of the Pyrenees through the **Musée Pyrénéen**, which showcases more than 15,000 works retracing life in this region since the 18th century.

I also had the chance to see a temporary exhibition on the history of an iconic sport: skiing in the Pyrenees.

Gourmet stroll at the Halles de Lourdes

Next, I visited the Halles de Lourdes, a traditional market where I discovered the local flavors of the Pyrenees.

Take the time to taste fresh products and chat with the vendors for an authentic immersion in the local culture.

Lunch at Le Palacio restaurant

For lunch, I went just a stone's throw from the market to discover a local and family-run restaurant... with delicious dishes!

Although the local cuisine of the Pyrenees isn't very plant-based, this restaurant still offers alternatives like a fantastic poke bowl and some excellent salads! Plus, you get a stunning view of Lourdes from the terrace (and very good desserts).

Relaxation at the Lake of Lourdes

After lunch, I took a nature break at the Lake of Lourdes. The lake is 3 km from the town center, but if you want to fully enjoy the experience, you can explore the surrounding landscapes by walking or cycling there.

And trust me, it's worth it! This lake is simply beautiful and offers total relaxation, whether you want to take a nap by the water or stroll around it. And if you want to make your afternoon even more fun, you can go kayaking or paddleboarding!

Tasting at the Maison du Jambon – Pierre Sajous

Attention, this is not for vegetarians! Once again, as we know, the South-West isn't very plant-based in its culinary culture. However, everything here is local. And what they love most is the black pork ham from Bigorre. I was treated to a quality tasting at Maison du Jambon by Pierre Sajous.

Torchlight procession

Now, you're not ready for this experience! Personally, I'm not a believer, yet I felt a very strong emotion while fully immersed in a torchlight procession.

If you're visiting Lourdes, you should know that its history is deeply rooted in its spiritual and religious richness. Yes, it's the city of miracles! Every evening, from April to October, there is an iconic torchlight procession, where believers (and non-believers) from all over the world come at least once in their lifetime.

You have to see it to believe it. During this procession, thousands of pilgrims participate in this ceremony, starting from the Grotto of the Apparitions, candle in hand, in an atmosphere of songs and prayers.

A very powerful moment, both introspective and communal.

Day 2: Discovering the basilicas and exceptional panoramas

Visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes

On my second day, I joined a passionate guide, Marie, who took me on a journey through the history of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, one of the largest pilgrimage sites in the world. On this site, I also discovered the

Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Basilica of St. Pius X (completely underground), and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, adorned with stunning mosaics.

I also learned the incredible story of Bernadette, a saint who changed the course of Lourdes’ history… We'll come back to that shortly ;)

In the footsteps of Bernadette

The afternoon was dedicated to discovering the life of Bernadette Soubirous, an iconic figure of Lourdes.

It was during her visions of the Virgin Mary that the miracles began, and the town of Lourdes was transformed.

At Bernadette’s request, the first basilica was built, and over time, the town was developed to welcome people from all over the world, hoping for miraculous healing.

Bernadette’s path is often the one pilgrims follow. Generally, we start by visiting her birthplace at the Boly Mill, passing by the Cachot where she lived with her family, and ending at the parish church where she was baptized.

This journey deepens your understanding of Lourdes’ history.

Climb to the Pic du Jer

I ended this weekend on a high note, with an ascent by funicular to the Pic du Jer, located just minutes from the town center. From its summit at 948 meters, I enjoyed a 360° panorama of the Pyrenees, the Lake of Lourdes, and the Gave Valley. A moment of serenity and contemplation to wrap up this weekend.