Discover Prechac, Hautes-Pyrénées, Midi-Pyrénées

Summary : Visit of the town of Lourdes on the eve of the Apparitions Duration : approx. 2hrs The visit begins in front of the Tourist Office.

Three basilicas and three types of art in the Sanctuaries of Our Lady of Lourdes (Afternoon visits are preferable, after the morning services and before the procession at 17.00h)

The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in 1h30mn includes seventeen points of interest.

Evoking Lourdes in the Middle Ages is a historical itinerary reminding the medieval city of Lorda, former name of Lourdes, protected by its two rows of fortifications with twelve towers and nestled at the bottom of the fortified castle – place of residence of the counts of Bigorre since the 11th century. This itinerary, partly virtual, transports the visitors some centuries back. The illustrated boards present a retrospective overview of the medieval city of Lourdes. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes eleven points of interest. The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes seventeen points of interest.

Discover one of the most beautiful valleys in the Pyrenees at your own pace, on foot or by bike. All along this 17 km route, you will find information about the villages around you and services on offer. Their rich heritage is well worth the visit! Nature fans will constantly be tempted to adventure off the trail on either side to explore the:  Lavedan paths  Gave river-bank paths  mountain-bike and bicycle paths

This circuit in the countryside around the village of Asson in the Pays de Nay takes you up the hillside in a steady climb so you can enjoy a beautiful clear view of the lowland and the first foothills of the Hautes-Pyrénées. It’s worth making some effort. This beautiful and intensive route, after taking you about two-thirds of the way into the forest, will lead you to a beautiful beech wood and the cabin of l’Isarce.

This lovely hike with a sharp climb will delight mountain lovers keen on wild and empty spaces. Its steep slope can be a perfect circuit for those who like to race the clock on their mountain climbs. No matter how you reach it, the summit of l’Estibète, at the beginning of the Pyrenees, provides a gorgeous panorama. If you look up, you may see birds of prey in the Pyrenean sky. The bearded vulture, a scavenger with an orange stomach and black wings, has a wingspan of about 3m ( 9.84ft.). It is the biggest bird of prey in Europe. Its cousin, the more solid, brown griffon vulture follows closely behind it with a 2.80m ( 9.18ft.) wingspan. Smaller, the golden eagle differentiates itself by its hunter’s flight. Its wings of 2.10m ( 6.90ft.) wingspan are solid, dark brown and curved at the end. Immature eagles have white markings.

The forges of l’Ouzom, consuming large amounts of charcoal, used some hundreds of hectares of forests every year. Colliers used to work in the forest, as closely as possible to the resource. They built stacks of wood that they burnt, covering them with dirt, so that they could burn without air. During the 19th century, it was the turn of movable metal kilns, which also enabled the recovery of tar. These large, lidded cauldrons were, in the case of those of Monbula, carried up, whole, on men’s backs as well as rolled on logs. Some elders can still remember the exploit!

If you like adventurous hikes, on a wild mountain with major changes in height and a varying landscape, this itinerary is perfect for you. After an ascent through forests, ferny areas and clearings you will reach the high altitude pastures that lead to the summit of Merdanson, an exceptional panoramic viewpoint. On the mountain, from the hills to the summits, we cross different types of vegetation depending on the elevation and whether you are on the flat or a slope. On the northern slope of the Pyrenees, up to 900m ( 2952.76ft.), we find hills, meadows and leafy forests. From 900 to 1700m ( 2952.76 to 5577.43 ft.), at the mountain level, are the beech and fir forest. Above the forest is the start of the subalpine and alpine levels, which comprise heathlands and summer pastures. Higher, around 2300m ( 7545.93ft.), at the snow level, there are only rocks and snow.

This walk around Arthez d’Asson in the Pays de Nay, at the gateway to the mountains, will lead you through an undulating countryside scattered with farms. The village with houses huddled together, with a neighbourhood near the water, born from the activity of the old forge.

This unique experience plunges you into the depths of the Grottes de Betharram for a 45-minute tour. By foot, by boat and by train, discover all of the curious features present in the underground galleries and chambers! BY FOOT, BY BOAT, AND EVEN BY TRAIN: SPEND 80 MINUTES DISCOVERING THE CURIOUS UNDERGROUND PASSAGES AND CHAMBERS OF THE GROTTES DE BATHARRAM! Your itinerary begins with the upper section of the caves, which is composed of vast galleries and immense chambers adorned with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. You will then descend an 80-metre abyss where, accompanied by your guide, you'll take to the underground river in a small boat. To finish the tour, you'll then board a little train that follows a 700-metre subterranean trail. Take advantage of this activity to embark on a quirky underground adventure!

Set up in the natural canyon carved out of the Pyrenees by the River Ardour, this via ferrata course is a fun and sporty way for families or groups of friends to make the most out of the stunning landscapes. SET UP IN THE NATURAL CANYON CARVED OUT OF THE PYRENEES BY THE RIVER ARDOUR, THIS VIA FERRATA COURSE IS A FUN AND SPORTY WAY FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS OF FRIENDS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE STUNNING LANDSCAPES. Zip lines, rope swings, monkey bridges, and all kinds of challenges await you within this exceptional site. Make your way along the rock face, following the cable that's fixed into the stone with the aid of well-placed hand and footholds: thrills guaranteed! The itinerary is adapted for all levels, from 3 to 83 years! An activity leader will be present to take care of the little kids while the bigger ones take on the via ferrata course accompanied by expert mountain guides. The itinerary is fully secure and all equipment adheres to strict safety regulations. You will be provided with everything you need: harness, helmet, ropes and carabiners. At the end of your activity, tea and coffee will be served in a traditional shepherd's hut. All participants, young and old, will be presented with an Ardour climbing certificate, as well as photos and a personalized film of the day's highlights.

Near Nay and Lourdes, the Vieux Logis hotel-restaurant is located a few steps from the region's most important tourist site, the Bétharram grottos. This family home has been lovingly converted into a charming hotel complex by their owners, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye. Today, the hotel-restaurant offers a contemporary décor. With its 28 rooms labelled Logis (3 "cocottes" and 3 "fireplaces"), and its 5 huts ("Insolite By Logis"), this establishment is a safe bet as much for the quality of the reception and its rooms, as for its restaurant. The cuisine served showcases the local gastronomy.

We are delighted to welcome you to the ski resort of Gourette, on the Valentin valley, on the GR10 towards the Col de Tortes. The 200 m outward and 180 m return zip lines are suspended on a cable between two mountains. They are accessible to everyone aged 5 and over. The sensations are guaranteed for zero effort! A guide is on hand to welcome you. The harnesses are not suitable for people with a very wide pelvis.

In the Ossau Valley, on top of the resort, among the pines and larches, facing the cirque of Gourette, on the road of the legendary Aubisque pass. 143 housing, located south. Relaxation area with sauna, steam room, fitness and solarium overlooking the ski area and surrounding mountains, for your parties, the panoramic restaurant Club offers the finest spectacles: a one-on-one with the snowy peaks! Nightly entertainment, club for children from 3 to 10 years and junior and teen club.

In the heart of the resort of Gourette, this apartment welcomes you for a stay in front of the circus of Gourette, in the ascent to the pass of Aubisque. Ideal location for a successful stay in the mountains... You will be able to access the ski area in winter as well as the multiple hikes on the cirque of Gourette and the Col d'Aubisque in summer

Located in the mountain village of Bilhères en Ossau, on the road to the Col de Marie-Blanque, the Marie-Blanque gîte is the ideal starting point for your stay in the Ossau Valley This pleasant individual house with its garden and its terraces for the summer and its living room with fireplace for the winter is ideal for a stay in family or between friends. Magnificent view on the Ossau Valley.

On the road to the Col d'Aubisque, in the heart of the resort of Gourette, the apartment "Le Skidoux" offers a breathtaking view of the cirque of Gourette from its large terrace. Its location is ideal for a successful stay in the mountains, whether in winter or summer. Located at the foot of the slopes, it will delight lovers of skiing, hiking and the great outdoors.

In Gourette, at the foot of the slopes in winter and very close to the Col d'Aubisque and the many hikes that the site offers. This charming chalet, entirely renovated in a mountain spirit has all the comfort, a beautiful fireplace and a stove, a large fenced wooden terrace, a balcony, a parking space, baby equipment, multiple storage for ski equipment etc. The chalet is located on a very quiet dead end street.

On the Col d'Aubisque road, in the heart of the Gourette resort, the P'tit Manabi studio offers a breathtaking view of the Gourette cirque from its balcony/terrace. Completely renovated, its location is ideal for a successful stay in the mountains, whether in winter or summer. Situated at the foot of the slopes, it will delight lovers of skiing, hiking and the great outdoors.

On the 19th century, the medieval cemetery situated in Saint-Pierre church became too small. It was transferred to “rue de l’Égalité”. In this cemetery are the ones of the witnesses of the Apparitions, of the hospitallers, of the Soubirous family (except Bernadette whose grave is in Nevers) and of Bernadette’s Novice Mistress. There is also the War Memorial, a rare work by the sculptor Jean-Marie Mengue.

Until 1881, the only point to cross the Gave River and to access Massabielle was through this Pont-Vieux. Bernadette took it on each Apparition (except the last one). It was also the itinerary of the first pilgrimages. This bridge has existed since the Middle Ages. In 1870, the city decided to flatten it by suppressing its bump. In 1900, it was enlarged to allow for the passage of the tramway.

The Garnavie tower (13th century) was named originally the Guigne tower because of its perfect location to keep a close eye on the village and then the castle at a glance. Then it took the name of the part of town where it stands. This tower, a property of the community, has survived the city urbanisation. Listed on the additional Inventory of National Heritage in 1946, it was restored in 1994.

The Baüs Tower owes its name to the cliff which supported the south part of the city fortification wall. It was located in the middle of this street, where is now the Hôtel de Rome. It was used as a prison during several periods. In 1871, the municipality destroyed it to make easier the passage of cabs and carriages under its vault. The Castle area with its medieval streets led also to this tower.

This half tower, situated in the southwest angle of the first fortification row in front of the defence line, was built on a small cliff and dominated the market square. The fortification wall had been opened for the alley but it is still present in the wall of the building facing it. There is also a turret surrounded by a small garden, from the Jerusalem Hospitallers’ house.

Bernadette Soubirous had lived in this room of 16 m² with her parents, her sister and both her brothers from May of 1856 until mid-September of 1858. This hovel was the former dungeon of Lourdes, abandoned in 1824. This was the domicile of the Soubirous family during the Apparitions. They left that place in September to live at the Deluc’s place, a pastry cook on place Marcadal.

On February 11, 1858, Bernadette Soubirous, her sister Toinette and her friend Jeanne Abadie crossed the Pont-Vieux and went there to get some wood. At the Massabielle Grotto, Bernadette’s destiny changed as well as the destiny of Lourdes. The left bank of the Gave River was then composed of farming lands that are today hotels and shops. Saint Joseph statue was erected in 1909.

The fortified castle was built in the Middle Ages on a natural defensive elevation. Because of its high strategic and defensive qualities, the county site was subject to numerous conflicts. It had changed hands frequently and was modified after Vauban’s intervention. Then it became a State prison under Louis XIV. It was bought again by the community in 1894. In 1921 the Musée Pyrénéen was inaugurated there.

The “rue du Bourg” was the main street of the city. Noble houses of the 17th and 18th centuries are still visible such as the mansions of General Maransin, General d’Embarrère and General Duprat. The “chaussée du Bourg” was the prolongation of the “rue du Bourg”. It was a way treated with lime to strengthen its ground. At the n°29 of “rue de la Grotte” the left corner of a half-timbered house is visible

The Roman church was built in the 11th century and housed a necropolis of sarcophaguses made of stone from the Béout. It was destroyed in 1904-1907 because the authorities judged that it was too small and too antiquated to foster the crowds coming to Lourdes. Its furniture, such as some decorative elements, is preserved in the Musée Pyrénéen. In 1991, the foundations of a square tower and a crossing point of antic ways were found.

The Restaurant Le Vieux Logis is ideally located at the foot of the Pyrenees, in an authentic and peaceful natural environment, between Nay in Béarn and Lourdes in Bigorre. From there, you are every close to the track of the way of Piedmont, one of the paths towards Santiago de Compostela and on the véloroute V 81 Pyrénées-Gave-Adour. Close to the famous Bétharram Grottos, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye's restaurant offers country cuisine highlighting local producers. From here, you are close to the passage of the voie du Piémont, one of the roads to Santiago de Compostela. The restaurant has also been awarded 3 "cocottes" in the Logis guide making it one of the region's essential restaurants.

Gastronomic Restaurant referenced in the guides. For lovers of the table, the restaurant where regional cuisine has managed to seasonally an important role in an elaborate and personalized cuisine: "Nuts Roasted St. Jacques, artichoke salad and shavings of foie gras in fricassee lamb sweetbreads with crayfish, dare pineapple ravioli and parfait with lime or its Dax apple / chocolate / caramel ... ". This winter the restaurant will work on two menus: a regional and a market. Guests can compose your menu according to your choice: starter, main and dessert or starter + main course + dessert.

This little creperie is located on the esplanade of Valentin facing the imposing Pic du Ger, at the foot of the ski area and hiking departures. Sébastien offers sweet and savory pancakes release. You absolutely must taste their pancakes. The room inside: setting and characters straight out of the forest Brocéliandes: as goblins and elves, fairies. On the terrace in summer and winter, you end up with pleasure the good food.

Located on the esplanade of Valentin with its terrace on the slopes, open for lunch and dinner in front of the gondola Bosses, home cooking and classic platters, Berger (Country ham, egg, fries, salad, sheep ) Ossaloise (lomo, egg, fries, salad, sheep) Spanish (chistorra, tortilla, lomo, salad) Pizzas on the spot or take away. 3 options are available: Dish of the day, Starter + Dish of the Day, Dish of the Day + Dessert + main entrance of the Day + Dessert

Located on the Esplanade du Valentin. Basque décor and atmosphere, being the boss Dominique Biarritz. By late afternoon, the place of rendezvous over 35/40 years, seasonal ... around a cocktail / tapas. Traditional cuisine: roasted rack of lamb with thyme, beef ribs, skewers of St. Jacques, mushroom sauce, duck sauce with foie gras, fresh fish etc.,

This small sandwich shop Snack / bar will satisfy the most eager skiers, with its sales paninis, hot sandwiches accompanied with chips, or menu including a sandwich, a drink + 1 fried. quick, convenient, there are at the foot of the gondola of Bosses and Cotch chairlift. In the evening, more seasonal atmosphere with tapas ...

Terrace facing the peak of Ger or within which everything has been completely renovated: modern design with trendy colors ... you can choose between a fast food with combined plates - lomo, piperade egg, fries, salad or Serrano, Basque omelet, etc., - or more elaborate dishes as grilled duck breast and piperade ... a cuisine Basque connotation.

Located on the esplanade of Valentin with its large terrace on the slopes, classic cuisine with dishes made good thoughts, the mountain dish (fried eggs, belly, fries, salad) or Basque (fried eggs, piperade, ham countries, salad, fried potatoes), some dishes to the appetizing menu, curry chicken, Basque chicken.

Small traditional restaurant in rooms with authentic decor and friendly or on the deck facing the slopes. We offer a rustic mountain cuisine. Between family bells and photos of old Gourette you can taste home melted raclette cheese Gourette, stew, suckling pig, ... under the watchful eye of the iconic fauna of the valley.

The "Snow K'fé" snack bar is a place and inevitable trend in the heart of the ski area of Gourette to 1600 m altitude on Cutch sector. Our team is waiting for a moment of relaxation in a friendly and festive atmosphere. An ideal break before resuming your day on the slopes.

Between Nay and Lourdes, in Lestelle-Bétharram, this fully renovated old house adjoining the owners' home, offers a beautiful view of the plains and mountains. This house has two large bedrooms and everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Outside, you can enjoy a large park with its south facing terrace, la plancha, ping-pong table as well as the volleyball net. The region being rich in cultural heritage, you will be able to explore the walled town of Lestelle-Bétharram and the Bétharram Grottos. You could also walk to the Croix des Hauteurs, which is very close to the cottage, and enjoy its breath-taking views. For lovers of aquatic life, the Gave de Pau is bursting with fishing spots.

Near Nay and Lourdes, the Vieux Logis hotel-restaurant is located a few steps from the region's most important tourist site, the Bétharram grottos. This family home has been lovingly converted into a charming hotel complex by their owners, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye. Today, the hotel-restaurant offers a contemporary décor. With its 28 rooms labelled Logis (3 "cocottes" and 3 "fireplaces"), and its 5 huts ("Insolite By Logis"), this establishment is a safe bet as much for the quality of the reception and its rooms, as for its restaurant. The cuisine served showcases the local gastronomy.

Close to the Ossau valley, in the bastide town of Lestelle-Bétharram, you'll find the Gite Chez Clouté. This large, detached gite combines old-world charm with modern touches and boasts views of the mountains and surrounding countryside. Anne-Marie welcomes you to a house with 3 bedrooms, a lounge, a large kitchen and a private garden with terrace. Nearby, you can enjoy white-water sports such as rafting or canoeing, or take a walk in the fresh air and visit the sanctuaries of Lestelle. Quench your thirst for curiosity with the heritage trail, which traces the history of the bastide town of Lestelle-Bétharram, a walled city built in the Middle Ages.

At the premices of a pyrenean valley, at the border of Bearn and Bigorra, a fully renovated semi-detached house welcomes you for your next holiday. The house is located on one of the mythical roads of the Tour de France leading to the Col d'Aubisque and to the Soulor. This 1185 sq ft house, offers all the conveniences needed for a pleasant stay. It combines the rustic charm of old stones to modern amenities (WiFi connection, heated swimming-pool to share with the owners from may to october...) this cottage in the countryside. Near this house, there are activities for everyone: fishing, white water activities, hiking, not to mention discovering the Nay Region’s cultural heritage.

In the village of Arthez d'Asson in Béarn, at the foot of the Pyrenees, this 970 square feet detached cottage has been completely renovated. This house, with an exposed stone interior, has kept the rustic charm of Béarnaise houses with its oak and large dining room with a fireplace. This house has two large bedrooms and everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Its 1000 m2 garden offers a quiet environment with a panoramic view of the countryside and mountains. Its location gives you privileged access to marked hiking trails and also allows you to discover the Gave, fishing and white water sports. For everyone else, tasting local specialities, country cheese, foie gras or visiting museums can be scheduled during your stay.

In the heart of the Béarn, between plains and mountains, this house located in Arthez d'Asson is an invitation to relax with its view of the Pyrenees. In this quiet and relaxing property, a double room awaits you, with private bathroom and toilet. Guests can also enjoy meals available on-site. In this green setting, many activities are available: climb the Col du Soulor on bike in the footsteps the Tour de France for those who are brave, or hike the surrounding marked trails, go fishing, and wildlife lovers can visit the Asson Zoo.

In the countryside, in the village of Asson in Béarn, the Latapie home invites you to relax in the quiet environment. Nestled in the midst of meadows and mountains, this single-story cottage sits in the heart of an old house that has been restored and comfortably furnished for a family vacation. In any season, leisure activities, or other more gourmet or even cultural activities await you. Sportier guests can especially enjoy the nearby hiking trails with the Way of St. James, or the Chemin Henri IV. For children, do not miss the farm discovery visits close by or the Asson zoo. A few kilometres away, fun discovery circuits also await you: FBI (Force Béarnaise d’Investigation) investigations will let them play trainee police officers.

At the heart of this walled town of Lestelle Bétharram, the school complex "Le Beau Rameau" is located near Nay towards Lourdes. Equipped with 30 beds throughout the year and 130 during the school holidays, the hotel offers half-board or full board. Ideal for sports groups, it has sports fields, an indoor gym, a wall, tennis, basketball and handball courts. It is equipped with a meeting room with free WiFi. Near the Chemin Henri IV overlooking the Gave de Pau, it is ideally located for groups of hikers, cyclists and white water enthusiasts.

A beautiful home with old-world charm (1821), where stone and beams blend with contemporary decor and comfortable facilities. In the heart of a small village in the Ouzom valley, 30 minutes from Lourdes, Pau, Tarbes and the Soulor and Aubisque passes. Ideal location at the foot of the Pyrenees, which will delight mountain lovers (hiking or cycling) and trout fishermen (gave). The house has been renovated to a very high standard, while retaining its charm: it is laid out over 3 levels. The first floor is accessed from the courtyard, via a 7-step stone and wrought-iron staircase and a staircase bordered by a wrought-iron balustrade.

At the heart of the fortified town of Lestelle Bétharram, Accueil Notre-Dame is located near the Nay-Lourdes axis, on the Way of St. James. Pilgrimage capital in the 17th century, Accueil Notre Dame, with its 22 rooms and 42 beds, welcomes pilgrims year-round for one or more nights, with or without breakfast, or even on half-board (on reservation). It is also a home for a retreat or a quiet stay. The home is attached to the sanctuary, a unique masterpiece of Baroque art in Béarn, composed of the 17th century Chapel of Our Lady, the old bridge with a single arch and a calvary with 15 stations.