Situated in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains in southwestern France, Lourdes is a town that punches way above its weight. With fewer than 15,000 permanent residents, this small mountain haven welcomes around six million visitors annually – making it the second most visited city in France after Paris. Pretty impressive, right? But what draws people to this tucked-away corner of France? For many, it’s the famous Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where in 1858, a young girl named Bernadette Soubirous claimed to have witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Since then, Lourdes has transformed from a sleepy mountain town into one of the world’s most significant religious pilgrimage sites, especially for Catholics seeking healing from the town’s famous spring waters. But even if you’re not religious, don’t cross Lourdes off your travel list just yet! With its stunning mountain scenery, rich history, outdoor adventures, and unique atmosphere where faith and tourism blend seamlessly, Lourdes offers something for every traveler. So pack your bags (and maybe a water bottle to fill at the famous springs) – we’re heading to Lourdes!
History at a Glance
Long before Lourdes became synonymous with miraculous healings and religious pilgrimages, it was just another small fortress town in the foothills of the Pyrenees. The town’s strategic location made it important throughout the medieval period, with its imposing fortress castle standing guard over the mountain passes between France and Spain.
The real turning point in Lourdes’ history came in 1858. That February, a 14-year-old local girl named Bernadette Soubirous reported seeing a “beautiful lady” in a grotto called Massabielle near the Gave de Pau river. Between February 11 and July 16, Bernadette claimed to have 18 visions of what she described as “a small young lady” who eventually identified herself as the “Immaculate Conception.” During one of these apparitions, the lady instructed Bernadette to drink from a spring in the grotto – which was surprising since there was no visible spring there at the time. Bernadette dug in the mud, and water began to flow. This spring continues to flow today and is famous for its reported healing properties.
The Catholic Church investigated Bernadette’s claims and in 1862 officially recognized the authenticity of the apparitions. Bernadette herself later became a nun and was canonized as a saint in 1933, forty-four years after her death.
The transformation of Lourdes was almost immediate and astonishing. From a population of about 4,000 in 1858, the town began welcoming thousands, then millions of pilgrims. Railways were built to accommodate the influx, hotels sprang up, and the massive Sanctuary complex was constructed around the grotto where the visions occurred.
Today’s Lourdes bears little resemblance to the humble mountain town of Bernadette’s time, having evolved into a major center of faith tourism while still preserving its spiritual heart amid the souvenir shops and modern amenities.
Fun Facts
- Lourdes welcomes more visitors than almost any other town in France – around 6 million annually – second only to Paris!
- The water from the Lourdes spring flows at a rate of about 32,000 gallons per day – enough to fill over 600 bathtubs!
- There are 70 confirmed miracle healings officially recognized by the Catholic Church, though thousands more are claimed.
- Lourdes has more hotel rooms per capita than any other city in France except Paris – over 270 hotels for a town of just 15,000 permanent residents.
- The town’s economy is almost entirely based on religious tourism, with around 60% of workers employed in tourism-related jobs.
- Celebrities who have visited Lourdes include Pope John Paul II, Celine Dion, and even soccer star Lionel Messi.
- Bernadette Soubirous’s body was exhumed decades after her death and found to be remarkably preserved, which some consider miraculous.
- The famous “Lourdes water” has been scientifically analyzed and found to contain nothing special chemically – it’s just regular spring water with no extraordinary mineral content.
- Around 350,000 sick or disabled people visit Lourdes annually seeking healing.
- The enormous underground Basilica of St. Pius X can hold 25,000 people and was built underground to avoid disrupting the sacred skyline of the sanctuary.
Reasons to Go
For the spiritually inclined:
Whether you’re Catholic or just spiritually curious, there’s something undeniably moving about Lourdes. The atmosphere of hope and faith is palpable, and witnessing thousands of pilgrims during candlelight processions creates unforgettable moments.
For history buffs:
From the medieval castle overlooking the town to the preserved 19th-century sites associated with Bernadette Soubirous, Lourdes offers a fascinating glimpse into different eras of French history.
For nature lovers:
The Pyrenees location provides stunning mountain backdrops, with nearby hiking trails, cycling routes, and natural wonders like Pic du Jer mountain and Gavarnie Falls just a short drive away.
For cultural explorers:
The unique blend of sincere religious devotion alongside kitschy souvenir shops creates a fascinating social study. Where else can you see neon Virgin Mary statues next to centuries-old basilicas?
For photographers:
The candlelight processions, the dramatic mountain scenery, the historic architecture, and the emotional human moments make Lourdes a photographer’s dream.
For the curious:
Even skeptics find Lourdes fascinating. The town represents a unique intersection of faith, commerce, hope, and tourism unlike anywhere else in the world.
Main Attractions
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
- The Grotto (Massabielle): Where Bernadette’s visions occurred and the miraculous spring emerged
- Basilica of the Immaculate Conception: The iconic upper church with beautiful mosaics
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary: The middle church with stunning Byzantine-style decoration
- Basilica of St. Pius X: The enormous underground church that can seat 25,000 people
- The Baths: Where pilgrims immerse themselves in the spring water
- Esplanade: The vast open space where processions take place
Château Fort & Pyrenean Museum
The medieval castle perched on a rocky outcrop offers panoramic views of the town and mountains, plus exhibits on local history and culture.
Bernadette’s Birthplace (Moulin de Boly)
The reconstructed mill where Saint Bernadette was born, now a small museum about her early life.
The Cachot
The former prison cell where Bernadette’s impoverished family lived at the time of the apparitions.
Pic du Jer
Take the funicular railway up this mountain for spectacular views over Lourdes and the Pyrenees.
Lac de Lourdes
A peaceful lake just outside town, perfect for a nature break from the bustling sanctuary area.
Wax Museum (Musée de Cire)
A slightly kitschy but entertaining museum depicting scenes from Bernadette’s life and Lourdes history.
Things To Do
Experience the Evening Candlelight Procession
Join thousands of pilgrims each evening (April-October) as they walk with candles through the sanctuary grounds, singing the Lourdes hymn and reciting the rosary in multiple languages. Even for non-religious visitors, this moving spectacle creates an unforgettable atmosphere of communal hope.
Take the Waters
Visit the famous baths where pilgrims immerse themselves in the spring water. Non-pilgrims can still fill water bottles at the public fountains to take home as souvenirs.
Explore the Underground Basilica
Marvel at the engineering feat that is the massive Basilica of St. Pius X, which can hold 25,000 worshippers underground without pillars obstructing views.
Ride the Pic du Jer Funicular
Ascend 1,000 feet in just a few minutes on this historic funicular railway to enjoy panoramic views and walking trails at the summit.
Visit the Castle Museum
Climb to the town’s medieval fortress for both historical exhibits and the best views over Lourdes and the surrounding mountains.
Walk Bernadette’s Footsteps
Follow the “Bernadette Path” to visit sites connected to the saint’s life, including her birthplace, the cachot where her family lived, and the parish church where she was baptized.
Shop for Religious Souvenirs
Even if you’re not religious, browsing the hundreds of shops selling everything from tiny plastic Virgin Mary bottles to elaborate rosaries is a cultural experience in itself.
Take a Day Trip to Nearby Pyrenees Attractions
Use Lourdes as a base to explore natural wonders like Gavarnie Falls, Pont d’Espagne, or the Pyrenees National Park.
Photographing Lourdes
Lourdes offers photographers a wealth of unique opportunities, from deeply moving human moments to stunning natural landscapes. Here are some prime photo spots and tips:
The Candlelight Procession
This is the photographic highlight of Lourdes. The sea of flickering candles against the night sky creates magical images. For best results, find an elevated position (like the steps of the Upper Basilica) and use a camera that performs well in low light.
The Sanctuary at Dawn
Beat the crowds by arriving at the sanctuary around sunrise. The morning light on the basilicas is gorgeous, and you’ll have rare moments of tranquility to compose your shots.
Pic du Jer Viewpoint
Take the funicular up for sweeping panoramas of Lourdes with the Pyrenees as backdrop. Sunset here is particularly stunning.
The Gave de Pau River
The flowing river beside the sanctuary offers beautiful compositions with the basilicas reflected in the water.
The Castle
Capture both medieval architecture and bird’s-eye views of the town and sanctuary.
Human Moments
Some of the most powerful images from Lourdes capture the emotion of pilgrims – but always photograph people with respect and permission when their faces are recognizable.
Interior of the Rosary Basilica
The Byzantine mosaics inside this church are colorful and intricate – a great option on rainy days.
The Grotto
Photography is restricted during prayer times, but at quieter moments you can capture this spiritual epicenter with its ever-burning candles and flowing spring.
Events Not to Miss
Torchlight Marian Processions
Held nightly at 9:00 PM from April through October, this is Lourdes’ most famous recurring event.
International Military Pilgrimage (May)
A unique event when military personnel from around 40 countries gather in uniform for a weekend of peace-focused ceremonies.
Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes (February 11)
The anniversary of the first apparition brings special celebrations even during the quieter winter season.
Assumption Day (August 15)
One of the biggest days in Lourdes’ calendar, with especially large processions and ceremonies.
Pyrenees Cycling Events
Several professional and amateur cycling events pass through or near Lourdes, including occasional stages of the Tour de France.
Festival of Sacred Music (April)
A week of concerts featuring religious music performed in the basilicas and around town.
Christmas in Lourdes
While quieter than summer, the December holiday season brings beautiful illuminations and a more intimate experience of the sanctuary.
Pilgrimage Routes
Lourdes is not just a destination but also connected to several important pilgrimage routes:
The Camino de Santiago Connection
Many pilgrims combine Lourdes with sections of the famous Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James), particularly via the Arles Route which passes relatively close to Lourdes.
The Marian Route
This pilgrimage path connects major Marian shrines across Europe, with Lourdes being one of the most significant stops along with Fatima (Portugal) and Częstochowa (Poland).
Local Pyrenees Pilgrimage Paths
Several traditional mountain pilgrimage routes connect Lourdes to smaller local shrines and sacred sites in nearby villages.
Bernadette’s Path
This is less a formal pilgrimage route and more a walking tour of sites in Lourdes connected to St. Bernadette’s life.
Organized Diocesan Pilgrimages
Many Catholic dioceses worldwide organize annual pilgrimages to Lourdes, often bringing sick or disabled pilgrims seeking healing.
The Route of the Sanctuaries of the Pyrenees
A driving route connecting Lourdes with other religious sites across the Pyrenees mountains, including sanctuaries in both France and Spain.
Cycling
The Pyrenees region around Lourdes is a cyclist’s paradise, having featured in the Tour de France numerous times. Here’s what you need to know:
Famous Nearby Climbs
- Col du Tourmalet: One of the most legendary climbs in cycling, this epic mountain pass is just 28km from Lourdes
- Col d’Aubisque: Another classic Pyrenean climb about 45km from town
- Hautacam: A steep climb that has featured in the Tour de France multiple times
Mountain Biking Trails
The surrounding forests and mountains offer trails for all skill levels, from gentle forest paths to technical downhill routes.
Bike Rentals
Several shops in Lourdes rent both road and mountain bikes, including high-end models. Book ahead during peak season.
Guided Tours
Local companies offer guided cycling excursions ranging from easy half-day rides to challenging multi-day adventures.
Practical Tips
- The best cycling season is May through October
- Bring layers as mountain weather can change quickly
- Consider e-bikes if you want to enjoy the scenery without the full effort of climbing
Cycling Events
Check the local tourism calendar for amateur cycling events that welcome visitors – participating is a great way to experience the roads with support and camaraderie.
Hiking Trails
The mountains surrounding Lourdes offer exceptional hiking opportunities for all fitness levels:
Easy Walks
- Lourdes Lake Circuit: A flat 6km loop around Lac de Lourdes, perfect for families or those wanting a gentle nature walk
- Sanctuary Hills Path: A 3km marked trail through the wooded hills behind the sanctuary with several viewpoints over the town
Moderate Hikes
- Pic du Jer Summit Trail: From the top funicular station, follow marked paths to explore the summit area with various lookout points
- Béout Mountain: This distinctive flat-topped mountain just east of Lourdes offers a 3-hour round trip hike with spectacular views
Challenging Routes
- GR10 Section: This famous long-distance trail crosses the entire Pyrenees. Pick up a day section from near Lourdes
- Gavarnie Cirque: About an hour’s drive from Lourdes, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers world-class hiking to one of Europe’s most impressive natural amphitheaters
Practical Hiking Information
- Always check weather conditions before setting out
- The Lourdes Tourist Office provides free hiking maps and can recommend routes based on current conditions
- Proper footwear is essential, even for easier walks
- Consider hiring a local guide for less-traveled routes
- Many trails are accessible by public transport from Lourdes
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
- April to October: Peak season with all facilities open and regular processions
- May and September: Ideal months with good weather but fewer crowds than summer
- Winter (November-March): Much quieter with fewer pilgrims and some businesses closed, but a more contemplative experience
Getting There
- By Air: The nearest airports are Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées (LDE) 10km away, Pau (PUF) 45km away, and Toulouse (TLS) 175km away
- By Train: Direct trains from Paris Montparnasse take about 6 hours
- By Car: Well-connected by highways, particularly the A64
Getting Around
- The town center and sanctuary are compact and walkable
- Local buses connect major points of interest
- Taxis are readily available
- For exploring the wider region, renting a car is recommended
Accommodation
- Book well in advance during peak season (especially around August 15)
- Options range from simple pilgrim hostels to 4-star hotels
- Most accommodations are concentrated near the sanctuary
- Consider staying slightly outside the center for better rates
Dining
- Many restaurants cater to tour groups with fixed menus
- Try local Pyrenean specialties like garbure (vegetable and ham soup) and tourte (meat pie)
- For budget options, look for “menu du pèlerin” (pilgrim’s menu) offers
- Most restaurants are concentrated along Rue de la Grotte and Boulevard de la Grotte
Money Matters
- Most establishments accept credit cards, but smaller shops may prefer cash
- ATMs are widely available in the town center
- Expect higher prices during peak season
- Many sanctuary activities are free, including entering the grotto and attending processions
Practical Tips
- Dress modestly when visiting the sanctuary (shoulders and knees covered)
- Bring a water bottle to fill at the spring fountains
- Consider a guided tour of the sanctuary to understand its significance fully
- Be respectful of pilgrims, especially those who are ill or disabled
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few French phrases is appreciated
Final Thoughts
Lourdes defies easy categorization. It’s simultaneously one of the world’s most significant religious sites and a tourist town complete with souvenir shops selling glow-in-the-dark Virgin Mary statues. This curious blend of the sacred and commercial might seem jarring at first, but it’s part of what makes Lourdes such a fascinating destination.
What stays with most visitors long after leaving isn’t the imposing basilicas or the beautiful mountain scenery, but the human element. Watching volunteers tenderly pushing wheelchairs of sick pilgrims, seeing the hope in people’s eyes as they touch the grotto walls, or joining thousands in silent prayer during the candlelight procession—these moments transcend religious boundaries and speak to something fundamentally human.
Even if you arrive as a curious tourist rather than a devout pilgrim, Lourdes has a way of touching you. The town’s unique atmosphere, where suffering and hope walk hand in hand, offers a perspective that few other destinations can provide. And beyond the spiritual aspects, the stunning Pyrenees location makes it a perfect base for exploring one of France’s most beautiful mountain regions.
So whether you come seeking miracles or mountains, religious experience or remarkable photography, Lourdes delivers something authentic and memorable. In a world of increasingly homogenized tourist experiences, this small French town offers something genuinely different—a place where faith is lived out loud, where the extraordinary seems possible, and where millions find something that keeps drawing them back year after year.
