Discover Guchan, a gem in the Hautes-Pyrénées

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

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.

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.

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)

Come and discover history thanks to the old mines set in stone. With its wide open spaces and the remains of an industry from another era, the Bentaillou never leaves you indifferent. The mines provide great souvenir photos of the Couserans. Here, history seems to have permeated the stone. From Zola's world to a Western setting, Bentaillou never leaves you indifferent.

This lovely walk will take you down the Biros valley to admire the Etang d'Araing, nestling at the foot of the Pic du Crabère. Bordered by the GR10, the refuge overlooking it can be a stopover for discovering other natural beauties of the Biros. Additional information: We strongly advise against hiking the Etang d'Araing in winter (avalanche paths).

Family walk through the hedged farmland to the hamlet of Col de Roux d'en Haut. Beautiful views from the Barbelizy pass. The barns, ancient terraces and low walls that line the trail bear witness to a forgotten agricultural tradition.

The Artignan estives hike offers a beautiful circuit with a wild and varied scenery, and the Urets-Serre de Chiche crossing is also a good way to discover the grandiose estives.

A looping route starting from the typical village of Buzan siuté on the southern slopes of the Bellongue valley, through deciduous forests and replanted Douglas fir.. Lookout point on the northern ridge with views over the valley and the peaks of the Couserans

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.

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!

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.

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.

Gourette: ultramodern equipments, snowmaking network from 1400 m. Easy access to the station by the gondola that takes you to the heart of the resort from the parking Ley (free) - Beginners have their own area: the Happy Place, space dedicated to learning, equipped with green slopes, carpets, chairlift, animation workshops, events, mountain restaurant, starting course of snowshoeing, Nordic bath, outdoor sauna, night in an igloo, snake gliss. 16 lifts. 28 tracks, 2 mountain restaurants, ski school, and independent monitor, snow parks, boardercross, rail park, pump park N'Py Moov and big air. Member of N'PY network.

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.

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

The French ski school proposes initiation or advanced lessons, in collective or individual courses. Reservations highly recommended. Traditional disciplines but also the freeride, freestyle, telemark ... are taught by qualified instructors. Passage of the tests. Wearing ski helmet recommended by all the professionals for children. Club "Piou-Piou" and kindergarten for 3/5 years. For children, the best way to acquire the right moves and good ski reflexes. "MINI CLUB": ski lessons + fun activities (Reserved for Piou-Piou and children from 3 to 12 years).

Sanctuaire dédié à la Vierge Marie, très connu dans la région.Point d'eau et tables de pique-nique.Dans cette clairière, le sentier balisé part vers la droite ; cependant vous pouvez aller jusqu'à la chapelle, (point d’eau), la contourner à l'arrière pour revenir sur le sentier qui descend dans le bois sur le versant nord (panneau indiquant Roche aux corbeaux et fontaine-attention, pour la fontaine accès pentu et non balisé-). Suivez le sentier qui descend en sous-bois vers les affleurements de roches calcaires de la Roche aux corbeaux. Passez auprès de celle-ci et suivez le sentier pentu. Plus bas, à l'intersection avec une piste plus large, tournez à gauche et redescendez en direction de la route goudronnée en bas du chemin de croix.Alternative : possibilité lorsque vous êtes à la chapelle, de redescendre vers votre véhicule en empruntant la route goudronnée qui suit le calvaire. A la croix VII, vue panoramique sur le village de Valentine, la centrale EDF, le lac de Sède.

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.

The baptismal basin, made of marble from Lourdes, is dated from the Roman ages. Bernadette Soubirous was baptised on 9 January 1844 over these basins which were originally in the former Saint-Pierre church.

The construction of the Sacré-Cœur parish church started in 1875 on the request of Abbot Peyramale. It was inaugurated in 1903 and the bell tower was finished in 1936. Abbot Peyramale’s grave can be seen in the crypt.

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 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.

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.

The development of Lourdes is connected to pilgrims’ trains. On March 9, 1866 the station was inaugurated and the first steam engine reached Lourdes on March 27. In 1887, the definitive station was finished with its metallic structure and its 92 meters long platforms. For the fiftieth anniversary of the Apparitions, up to 300 000 pilgrims came to Lourdes by train, the beginnings of the arrival of countless crowds on the 20th century.

On March 25, 1858 Bernadette transmitted here in Occitan to Abbot Peyramale the words of the Apparition: « I am the Immaculate Conception ». In 1973, the descendants of Lacour, owners of the building since 1922, transferred it to the city of Lourdes which established there the community library until 2007. The building keeps untouched one part of the wall of its old garden as well as the door through which Bernadette went in.

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.

Right in the heart of town, ideally located between Pau, Tarbes and Lourdes, the Hôtel du Commerce serves authentic gourmet cuisine. "A friendly place where you can eat well" is how regulars describe the place. For meat lovers, there's the popular grilled entrecôte de b?uf, coq au vin, the unmissable omelette aux cèpes, paëlla, cruji coques and a variety of desserts. Something for everyone's taste buds...

Located not far from the center of Pontacq, the café de France will serve you its "bistro" cuisine with market products. The chef will share with you his traditional cooking modernized according to the seasons with fresh products. For the amateurs of good meat, the false net garni is proposed every day!

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.

Located at the entrance of the town of Pontacq, not far from Tarbes and Lourdes, this small restaurant is worth a visit. Lovers of good food and nice atmosphere, this restaurant cellar wine bar is for you. You will be served fresh dishes changing according to the seasons: piquillos stuffed with meat or fish, oyster mushrooms, melted camembert and walnut salad, seafood risotto are some of the dishes on offer, all accompanied by a good little wine proposed by the chef.

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.

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 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.

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.

The Étang d'Araing refuge is a refuge in the French Pyrenees, situated at an altitude of 1965 m in the extreme south-west of the Ariège department, at the foot of the Crabère peak, on the GR10.

On the banks of the river, this Logis Essentiel*** hotel welcomes you to the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional on the Route des Cols. In the heart of the village, you'll be welcomed in our Logis*** hotel, with comfortable rooms meeting today's standards, equipped with bathroom, television, kettle.... On the route des cols for cycling enthusiasts, everything has been thought of to welcome you when you visit. Whether you're a mountain biker or a road cyclist, .... is a pure delight! For hiking enthusiasts, there are numerous trails starting right from the village, not forgetting the many walks in nearby villages. Local craftsmen and craftswomen in our canton have a wealth of wonderful things to offer. For your enjoyment, the inn offers a restaurant with local flavours.

Right next door to their old-fashioned house is the nursery where Claudine and Charles will welcome you to their camping-garden, a haven of greenery and calm, ideal for a relaxing vacation and to recharge your batteries. The camping-garden has 12 pitches of 80 to 100 m2, grassy, flat, shady and bordered by flowering hedges (over 300 species or varieties of ornamental plants or fruit trees). We specialize in old varieties of southwestern fruit trees and apple juice production. Claudine and Charles also offer 2 traditional tepee accommodations.

A stopover on the GR10, the Tour du Biros, the Passaran loop, etc... the Eylie stopover gîte welcomes all overnight hikers. Sleeps 14 in 2 dormitories, half board available. Please bring your sleeping bag. Pets not allowed. In the heart of the Pyrenees, at the end of the Couserans, in the Biros valley, at an altitude of 1000m, on the GR10, the Eylie stopover gîte welcomes all overnight hikers. Sleeps 14 in 2 dormitories. Meals are available on a half-board basis. Please bring a sleeping bag or duvet for the dormitory. Pets are not allowed. Payment by cheque, cash or instant transfer.

Located at the crossroads of the Hautes-Pyrénées and Pyrénées-Atlantiques, just 15 minutes from Lourdes, this recently renovated family hotel is ideal for a business or tourist stopover You will stay in one of our 15 cosy rooms which will ensure you calm and comfort. We have two family rooms for 5 people and one quadruple room for 4 people. At the table of our restaurant, you will enjoy a traditional and tasty cuisine with a special emphasis on local products.

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.

In the heart of the village of Pontacq, a small village in the Bearn region not far from Lourdes, you will be welcomed in a family suite occupying the entire attic floor of an 18th century Bearn house, which opens onto a park full of flowers and enclosed. You will have your breakfast in the living room by the fireplace and will be able to take advantage of the enclosed garden in a calm and private setting.

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.

The Millepertuis gîte is a pretty barn renovated by Nathalie and Philippe, facing the Pyrenees. Large bay windows open onto a large wooden terrace overlooking the vast meadows and farmland of the village of Montaut. The single-storey layout is functional and accessible to people with disabilities. The house is bathed in a soft, pleasant atmosphere, combining contemporary style with exposed beams and restored furniture.