Pilgrimage to Lourdes in France
To feel truly human, a daily routine is not enough. Faith plays a vital role in our everyday life, because it keeps hope alive and fills the heart with love. Imagine being part of a place that, 24 hours a day, all year round, is a refuge and a pilgrimage center for believers and at the same time offers attractive tourist sights.
Lourdes is located in the Bigorre valleys, at an altitude of about 400 meters, near the Gave de Pau river, in the Hautes-Pyrénées region of France. Visitors to Lourdes feel a deep love that reflects the faith with which the whole region honors the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Lourdes, as she is called here.
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception was built above the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to Bernadette Soubirous in 1858.
A considerable number of people from many countries, of all ages, and even of different religions, come to Lourdes to visit the Grotto of Massabielle (also called Massabielle Grotto, Grotto of the Apparitions or simply the Lourdes Grotto), where the apparitions of the Virgin Mary took place. People come here with their hopes, prayers, wishes, and requests. Many touch the rock of the Grotto gently, as a sign of faith and trust.
Many kinds of visitors come on this journey: simple tourists, those seeking healing, and those seeking to strengthen their faith. One thing does not change: people never leave Lourdes empty-handed. Some people strengthen their faith, some improve their health, and some find inner peace.
A statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, a title for the Virgin Mary based on her apparitions to St. Bernadette Soubirous in Lourdes, France.
History of the holy place
The history of Lourdes goes back to 1858. On February 11, a young girl named Bernadette Soubirous saw the Virgin Mary in the Grotto of Massabielle. There were 18 apparitions in total. The Virgin Mary gave the girl messages. Bernadette said that every time the Virgin Mary was so beautiful that she did not want to leave her. A pilgrimage tour usually begins with a visit to Bernadette’s home, the Boly Mill, where the girl lived.
A local private tour guide can provide visitors with a wealth of helpful information: addresses and directions, hotel prices, the best transport options, restaurant recommendations, police and embassy phone numbers, where and how to change money, and much more. With a private guide, you do not need to worry about these things. The guide is always ready to help where you need support.
The iconic candlelight procession at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France. This nightly ritual is a central part of the pilgrimage experience.
To remember the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Lourdes, every year on February 11, there is a beautiful celebration: the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. During the religious ceremonies that fill the whole town, visitors can experience deep, positive feelings.
Holy places of Lourdes.
The whole town is like a Sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes. It is one of the most visited pilgrimage places after Rome. Here, visitors can see, feel, and experience the sacred atmosphere and also the peaceful landscapes of Lourdes.
In Lourdes, there is one of the largest natural sanctuaries in Europe: the Grotto. This site attracts tourists from many parts of the world. The natural symbolism unites three main elements: water (purification), rock (transformed earth), and light (with faith it becomes hope and reverence, bringing peace and calm). The good thoughts of thousands of pilgrims create strong positive energy filled with love, and visitors feel it when they come to Lourdes.
A Stunning Angel Statue in Lourdes, France.
In the Grotto of the Apparitions, there is the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, surrounded by several churches, including Saint Pius X, Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. From here, prayers and hymns rise to the Mother of God. This whole complex touches the heart of every visitor.
When and with whom to visit Lourdes?
The best date to visit Lourdes is February 11. However, from April to October, there are many other essential events worth seeing. These include the Pilgrimage of the Order of Malta, the Rosary Pilgrimage, the Procession of the Blessed Sacrament, the International Mass, and the Torchlight Marian Procession.
Lourdes is a primary Roman Catholic pilgrimage site. There is a dome of the Rosary basilica, surmounted by a gilded crown, and the cross in the foreground.
To visit Lourdes, you do not need to plan the exact date very far in advance, because all the sanctuaries of Lourdes (22 in total) are open to visitors 365 days a year.
There is also an interesting option for visitors: a one-day pilgrimage program. This program usually includes a video about the messages of the Virgin Mary in Lourdes, attending a religious service, praying the Rosary in the Grotto, and taking part in a procession during Eucharistic adoration or Mass.
The surroundings of Lourdes are beautiful mountains with interesting tourist spots visible from the Pic du Jer funicular. In the evening, a large cross on the peak is lit up and visible from far away; the peak is about 1,000 meters high. There is also an interesting observatory.
The Massabielle Grotto in Lourdes, France, features a statue of the Virgin Mary, known as Our Lady of Lourdes. The text on the plaque below the statue is in Occitan and says: "QUE SOY ERA IMMACULADA COUNCEPCIOU," which means "I am the Immaculate Conception".
If you like history, you can discover the Castle of Lourdes, a monument that attracts many visitors. It is a strategic and vital fortress, built where the seven valleys of the Lavedan area meet. From the castle you can enjoy fantastic views of nature.
So, your destination is Lourdes in France, but you do not speak French. Do not worry about this. Remember that you can have a private tour guide. To offer quality service, a tour guide receives thorough training and can handle difficult situations. Language should not be a problem. In general, tour guides usually speak two or more languages. So there is no reason to refuse a trip to the holy places of Lourdes, and you have a chance to learn more about Our Lady of Lourdes.
Gilded crown and cross of the dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Lourdes, France
🌄 10 Interesting, Lesser‑Known Facts About Lourdes
1. A tiny town with an outsized global presence
Lourdes has a population of only about 15,000 residents, yet it receives millions of visitors each year.
2. Surrounded by three major Pyrenean summits
The town sits among Aneto, Montaigu, and Vignemale, offering dramatic mountain scenery that many pilgrims never get to see.
The Vignemale mountain is the highest of the French Pyrenean summits in the Pyrenees National Park, Hautes-Pyrénées, France, Europe.
3. A cable car to panoramic views
The Pic du Jer cable car, just 15 minutes from town, provides sweeping views over the valley and mountains—an unexpected adventure for a pilgrimage destination.
4. Lourdes was famous before the apparitions
Long before 1858, Lourdes was known for the Château fort de Lourdes, a medieval castle that dominated the town from above.
Château Fort - The fortress guarding the gateway to the Central Pyrenees. A fine example of medieval military architecture. A state prison in the 17th and 18th centuries, it is now a national museum.
5. The apparitions happened in a garbage dump
The Grotto of Massabielle—now one of the most visited religious sites in the world—was once a dirty, neglected riverside area used as a dump before Bernadette’s visions transformed its significance.
6. Lourdes is a relatively “new” pilgrimage site
Unlike ancient shrines, Lourdes became a major pilgrimage destination only after 1858, making it one of the youngest major Christian pilgrimage centers.
A hiker with a backpack and walking poles, following a marker with the iconic scallop shell symbol and a yellow arrow, both traditional signs for pilgrims.
7. One of the world’s largest pilgrimage seasons
The official pilgrimage season runs from April to October, with the peak on August 15, the Feast of the Assumption.
8. Over 200 million pilgrims since 1860
Despite its small size, Lourdes has welcomed more than 200 million pilgrims in just over a century and a half.
Lourdes, France. Pic du Jer Funicular in the foreground and the city in the distance.
9. Bernadette Soubirous became a canonized saint
The young peasant girl who witnessed the apparitions, Bernadette Soubirous, later became a nun and was canonized—her story remains central to Lourdes’ identity.
10. Lourdes blends spirituality with outdoor adventure
Beyond its religious significance, the region is also popular among hikers and nature lovers for its Pyrenean landscapes.
Mountain landscape. The Vignemale massif is the highest of the French Pyrenean summits. Department of Hautes-Pyrénées, Occitanie in the south of France.
🌿 Best Times to Visit Lourdes
🌸 Spring (March–May): Mild weather & peaceful atmosphere
- Considered one of the best periods for serenity and fewer crowds.
- Temperatures are mild, nature is in bloom, and the Sanctuary feels calm.
- Ideal if you prefer reflection over large gatherings.
☀️ Early Summer (May–July): Best overall weather
- May, June, July, August, and September are the best months for the weather.
- Warmest months: July and August.
- Great for outdoor activities around the Pyrenees.
Lourdes aerial panoramic view. Lourdes is a small market town lying in the foothills of the Pyrenees.
⛪ Peak Pilgrimage Season (April–October)
- The primary pilgrimage season runs through these months.
- Expect large crowds around major Catholic celebrations, especially August 15 (Assumption).
- Ideal if you want to experience Lourdes at its most vibrant and communal.
🌦️ Autumn (September–October): Pleasant but variable
- Still good weather in September.
- October is quieter but can be wetter.
- A balanced choice for moderate crowds and decent temperatures.
A big crowd of people during the public prayer in front of the main church in Lourdes, France.
❄️ Winter (November–February): Quietest & coldest
- Coldest month: January.
- Night temperatures in February can drop to –13°C.
- November is one of the rainiest months.
- Best for solitude, but many activities and services operate on reduced schedules.
Lourdes for Religious Travelers: Essential Recommendations for a Meaningful Pilgrimage
Lourdes is one of the world’s most significant Catholic pilgrimage destinations, welcoming millions of visitors seeking prayer, healing, and spiritual renewal. These practical recommendations help religious travelers — and the guides who accompany them — experience the city with comfort, reverence, and cultural awareness.
A statue of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France. The sculpture depicts Mary with her hands clasped in prayer, often wearing a white veil and dress, a blue sash, and a crown.
1. Where to Stay: Pilgrim‑Friendly Accommodations
Religious travelers often prefer accommodations that support prayer, silence, and easy access to the Sanctuary.
Best options include:
- Hotels near the Sanctuary gates (Avenue Bernadette Soubirous, Rue Sainte‑Marie) for quick access to Masses and processions.
- Religious guesthouses (maisons d’accueil) offering simple rooms, quiet environments, and on‑site chapels.
- Pilgrim‑oriented hotels with early breakfasts, group dining, and accessibility features.
A statue of Saint John the Baptist in the Rosary Square, part of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France. The Rosary Square is a large open area leading to the basilicas of the Sanctuary.
What to look for:
- Walking distance to the Grotto
- Elevators and wheelchair access
- Prayer rooms or chapels
- Dining halls suitable for parish or diocesan groups
2. Liturgical Life: Masses, Confession & Processions
Lourdes offers one of the richest daily liturgical schedules in Europe.
The Rosary Basilica and the esplanade. The Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes, also known as the Rosary Basilica, is a notable architectural feature of the site. Many pilgrims visit the site seeking faith, solace, and healing, with numerous cures having been officially recognized over the years.
Key spiritual moments:
- Daily Masses in multiple languages
- International Mass on Sundays and major feast days
- Confession is available all day at the Reconciliation Chapel
- Eucharistic Procession every afternoon during pilgrimage season
- Torchlight Marian Procession every evening at 21:00 (April–October)
These ceremonies are central to the Lourdes experience and ideal for group participation.
Sanctuary of Lourdes interior, Lourdes, France.
3. Important Religious Dates & Pilgrimage Seasons
Major Feast Days
- February 11 – Our Lady of Lourdes
- August 15 – Assumption of Mary (peak crowds)
- December 8 – Immaculate Conception
- Holy Week & Easter – Popular for European pilgrims
A monumental mosaic mural inside the Rosary Basilica in Lourdes, France. The basilica, completed in 1901, is part of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and is renowned for its extensive mosaics depicting the mysteries of the Rosary.
Pilgrimage Season
- April to October
Complete program of Masses, blessings, and processions.
Quiet Season
- November to March
Ideal for reflection and silence, though colder and with reduced schedules.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France. This central Catholic Marian shrine is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the Christian world, attracting millions of visitors each year.
4. Dining Tips for Pilgrims
Lourdes’ dining scene adapts well to religious travelers and groups.
Useful tips:
- Many restaurants offer pilgrim menus (menu pèlerin) — simple, affordable meals.
- Fish dishes are widely available on Fridays.
- Early dinners are a way of life to accommodate evening processions.
- Restaurants around Rue de la Grotte and Avenue du Paradis offer the most choices.
Practical note:
Many establishments close between lunch and dinner, and reservations are essential during feast days.
The alley to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary in Lourdes, France.
5. Sacred Etiquette & Practical Advice
At the Grotto
- Maintain silence.
- Photography should be discreet.
- Touching the rock is permitted and meaningful for many pilgrims.
Holy Water
- Bring a small bottle or purchase one locally.
- Use the designated taps near the Grotto.
Rosary Basilica and Catholic Shrine (Grotto) - Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Lourdes, Hautes-Pyrénées, Occitanie, France, Europe.
Dress & Comfort
- Modest clothing is appreciated during liturgies.
- Comfortable shoes are essential — expect long walks.
Accessibility
Lourdes is one of the most accessible pilgrimage sites in the world, with extensive support for visitors with reduced mobility.
6. Tips for Guides & Group Leaders
- Reserve group Masses in advance.
- Plan around liturgical schedules to avoid long waits.
- Include quiet time for personal prayer.
- Consider adding light cultural visits (Château Fort, Pic du Jer) for balance.
Aerial view over the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a roman catholic church in Lourdes, France.
Lourdes for Non‑Religious Travelers: Practical Tips for a Memorable Visit
Lourdes is globally known as a pilgrimage destination, but the town and its surroundings offer far more than spiritual tourism. From Pyrenean landscapes to medieval heritage and local cuisine, non‑religious travelers will find a surprisingly rich mix of culture, nature, and history. These recommendations help visitors experience Lourdes comfortably and meaningfully — without focusing on religious practices.
A mature nun is lighting a candle on the altar of a church in Lourdes, France.
1. Where to Stay: Comfort, Views & Easy Access
Non‑religious travelers often prioritize comfort, scenery, and proximity to both the Sanctuary and the town’s cultural attractions.
Best accommodation types:
- Hotels along Avenue du Paradis are known for river views, modern amenities, and quieter surroundings.
- Boutique hotels in the town center are ideal for food lovers and those who enjoy evening strolls.
- Nature‑oriented stays, guesthouses, and small hotels near the foothills of the Pyrenees for hiking enthusiasts.
The Château Fort de Lourdes is a medieval castle in the commune of Lourdes, France. Perched on a rock cliff, the fortress has over a thousand years of history. It served as the residence of the Counts of Bigorre in the 11th and 12th centuries. The castle held a strategic position at the entrance to the seven valleys of Lavedan in the Pyrenees. Today, it is a national heritage site and houses the Musée Pyrénéen (Pyrenean Museum).
What to look for:
- Rooms with mountain or river views
- Easy access to restaurants and shops
- Parking (important for road‑trippers)
- Breakfast options for early excursions
A young nun is praying.
2. Cultural & Scenic Highlights
Lourdes offers a surprising variety of non‑religious attractions. Top experiences:
- Château Fort de Lourdes is a medieval fortress with panoramic views and a museum of Pyrenean culture.
- Pic du Jer Funicular: A scenic ride to a summit with walking paths and breathtaking vistas.
- Lac de Lourdes is perfect for picnics, paddleboarding, or a peaceful lakeside walk.
- Historic town center, charming streets, cafés, and local shops worth exploring.
The Rosary Basilica (Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire) in Lourdes, France, is part of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. It is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world.
For nature lovers:
- Day trips to Gavarnie, Cauterets, or Pont d’Espagne, some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Pyrenees.
3. Best Times to Visit
Non‑religious travelers often prefer avoiding peak pilgrimage crowds.
Ideal periods:
- May–June and September–October Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and excellent hiking conditions.
- Winter (December–March): Quiet, atmospheric, and perfect for combining Lourdes with nearby ski resorts.
Lourdes, France, The Grotto of Notre Dame, Pyrenees, photochrom, circa 1890s.
When it’s busiest:
- Mid‑July to late August
- Major Catholic feast days (especially August 15)
4. Dining Tips: Local Cuisine & Relaxed Meals
Lourdes has a surprisingly diverse food scene, especially for a small town.
French garlic soup:
It is a comforting, rustic dish that typically uses a lot of garlic as its main ingredient. The image provided highlights the key ingredient, garlic, which is essential for this soup. Common characteristics and ingredients include:
Garlic: Recipes often call for multiple heads or many cloves, which are usually peeled and cooked until soft.
Base: The soup base often includes ingredients like onions, butter, olive oil, and stock (chicken or vegetable). Some recipes also incorporate potatoes for thickness or milk/cream for a creamier texture.
Flavor Profile: The slow cooking process mellows the garlic's pungency, resulting in a soup with a rich, slightly sweet, and savory flavor.
Serving: It is traditionally served hot, sometimes with additions like egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, or crusty bread for dipping.
What to try:
- Garlic soup (tourin à l’ail)
- Pyrenean trout
- Local cheeses (Ossau‑Iraty, Barousse)
- Gâteau à la broche, a traditional spit‑cake
The wheels of BAROUSSE CHEESE.
A local family makes cheese the old-fashioned way, using yesterday's whey. This Barousse has an inimitable taste and will take you back in time. Cow's milk cheese is produced in Midi-Pyrénées.
Where to eat:
- Streets around Rue de la Grotte for casual dining
- Town center for bistros, wine bars, and regional cuisine
- Lac de Lourdes area for scenic lunch spots
Practical notes:
- Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
- Reservations help during summer weekends.
Ossau-Iraty is a well-known French cheese made from sheep's milk, produced in the Pyrenees region of France. It is one of only two French sheep's milk cheeses to be granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, the other being Roquefort. Here are some key details about Ossau-Iraty: Origin: The cheese is named after two neighboring areas: the Ossau Valley in the Béarn region and the Iraty forest in the French Basque Country. History: It is considered one of the oldest cheeses in the world, with a tradition of production dating back over 3000 years. Texture and Flavor: It has a semi-firm texture that is both creamy and smooth. The flavor profile is rich and complex, often described as buttery and nutty, with notes of hazelnut, fruit, and caramel. Production: The cheese is an uncooked, pressed cheese made exclusively with milk from local Manech and Basco-Béarnaise sheep breeds. It is typically aged for at least 90 days, but some versions are aged longer to develop more character.
5. Practical Advice & Local Etiquette
Around the Sanctuary
Even if visiting for cultural interest:
- Maintain a respectful tone and behavior
- Avoid loud conversations near the Grotto
- Dress comfortably but modestly
Getting Around
- Lourdes is walkable, but some streets are steep.
- Local buses connect theLakee, town center, and Sanctuary.
- Taxis are useful for early‑morning excursions.
A Pyrenean Mountain Dog, also known as a Great Pyrenees, in a mountain landscape. This majestic breed of livestock guardian dog originated in the Pyrenees Mountains of France and Spain. They are known for their thick white coats, calm demeanor, and natural protective instincts. The dog in the picture is a rustic mountain dog type. Adult males typically weigh between 55-75 kg (120-165 lbs) and stand 70-80 cm (28-31 inches) tall.
Shopping
- Look beyond souvenir shops: Try local markets, artisan boutiques, and regional food stores.
6. Tips for Guides & Tour Leaders
- Balance Sanctuary visits with cultural and natural attractions.
- Offer optional participation in religious sites without pressure.
- Include scenic viewpoints and local gastronomy to diversify the experience.
- Plan day trips to nearby Pyrenean highlights for added value.
Mountains in the Ossau Valley, Pyrenees, France. The Ossau Valley is known for its dramatic landscapes, hiking routes, and natural beauty.
Would you like to go on such a journey of pilgrimage?
Lourdes is a destination unlike any other — a place where spirituality, culture, and nature coexist in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. Pilgrims find a space for prayer and renewal; non‑religious travelers discover history, landscapes, and a gentle rhythm of life shaped by centuries of hospitality. No matter the purpose of the visit, the town invites reflection, curiosity, and a slower pace that encourages travelers to look deeper.
A statue of Our Lady of Lourdes is located in Lourdes, France. The statue depicted in this image is sometimes shown with a crown of stars, reflecting her title as the Queen of Heaven.
By understanding the practical aspects of staying, dining, exploring, and moving respectfully through sacred spaces, visitors can experience Lourdes with confidence and appreciation. Whether one comes for faith, culture, or the beauty of the Pyrenees, Lourdes offers something meaningful to everyone — a reminder that travel can be both enriching and transformative in ways we don’t always expect.
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