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D7 : CAUTERETS/ SAINT-SAVIN/LOURDES
Cauterets > Saint-Savin > Lourdes
30 km / 43 mn
To conclude our voyage, we invite you to take part today in an exclusive and personnal experience. Head to Lourdes and its magical torchlight procession. But for the moment this is for later in the day this. Firstly, we are going to make a gastronomic stop with the Saint-Martin family in Saint Savin. We also recommend a visit to the Parc Animalier Des Pyrénées, the local wildlife zoo on the outskirts of Argelès-Gazost.
Stroll to the Notre-Dame-de-Piétat chapel
" In the shadow of the linden trees, you can enjoy a superb view of the valley. "
A charming signposted short walk from the Saint-Savin square leads to the Notre-Dame-de-Piétat chapel, posted atop its promontory overlooking the Gave valley and Argelès Gazost. In the shadow of the linden trees, you can enjoy a superb view of the valley, with Hautacam opposite.
The Sanctuary in Lourdes
The sanctuary isthe area around the grotto where Bernadette saw apparitions of the Virgin Mary. They are on the river bank and it is the area where people come to pray, there are three basilicas.
- The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, smooth and white, perched on a rocky outcrop above the grotto.
- The Basilica of the Rosary, in the lower part, it is decorated by superb Venitian mosaics created by G.D. Facchina, who alos decorated the Opera Garnier in Paris.
- The Basilica of Pius X is underground beneath the esplanade and can accommodate 20000 people.
The Pic du Jer Finicular Railway
The Pic du Jer towers over Lourdes, it is recognisable by its enormous cross which is illuminated an night. A century old funicular railway takes youp to the summit at 1000m of altitude in just a few minutes, a voyage full of history. Once at the top an easy trail takes you to a look-out point from where there is a 360 degree panorama, over Lourdes, Tarbes, Pau the Argeles-Gazost valley and the Pyrenean peaks.
Situated at the entry to Lourdes (59, av. Francis-Lagardère) • www.lourdes-infotourisme.com
The Lourdes castle and its Pyrenean museum
The castle is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town, it is a classified historical monument. Within its wall is a museum of the Pyrenees. So do hestitae to making an assault on this impressive fortress, climb the 104 steps which lead to the top of the dungeon tower, at the top the view is superb. You can also discover the famous legend of Charlemagne who is celebrated on the crest of Lourdes.
A lovely diversion
" A hearty breakfast in this charming village perched atop a rocky outcrop. "
Breakfast with the Saint-Martin family, in Saint-Savin
Jean-Pierre and Alexis Saint-Martin welcome you to the Hotel de Viscos in Saint-Savin. A real local institution, you can look forward to a hearty breakfast in this charming village perched atop a rocky outcrop.
