 Lourdes retains the attraction of an authentic Pyrénées town and is endowed with a rich natural as well as architectural heritage. The centre is dominated by a fortress dating from medieval times, which today is home to the popular attraction, Musée Pyreneen. In addition, the steep alleyways and ancient structures that characterise the old town are a testament to Lourdes’ historically-significant past.
 Millions of visitors from around the world have made a pilgrimage to the Grotte de Massabielle. It was at this cave, in 1858, that a 14-year-old local girl, Bernadette Soubirous, first had a vision of the Virgin Mary. In all, she reported 18 visitations, and it is for this reason that Lourdes became an important pilgrimage site for Catholics.
 The first pilgrimage of a significant size took place in 1873, and since then hundreds of thousands are drawn to the holy grotto each year.Pilgrimages are not the only reason to visit Lourdes, though. The city makes a good base for venturing out to explore the nearby Pyrénées as well.
The immense and majestic, yet charming Pyrénées National Park has great appeal. Stretching from Gavarnie to the Pont d'Espagne and from the Pic du Midi to the well-known Tour of France passes, the park provides endless opportunities for family recreation. Activities to choose from include angling, cycling, golf, hiking and trekking with ponies, among others.
 Lourdes is also the gateway to an area known as Mountain Stream Valleys. This is a region featuring spa towns and winter ski resorts. Shoppers will enjoy the covered market in Lourdes and the many small shops open from the early morning hours. High-quality local handicrafts and Pyrenean gastronomic specialities are available throughout the centre.
 Shops, restaurants and hotels line the banks of the river that runs through the centre of Lourdes. The range of accommodation options is extensive here, with everything from basic lodgings for pilgrims to hotels in the deluxe category. The centre, which also has hotel options, is also a good location from which to explore the attractions of the old town and the world-famous shrine.
 Numerous trains connect Lourdes with all major destinations in France. TGV high-speed service from Paris makes the journey in seven hours. The local airport has regular service connecting Lourdes with Paris, and of course travelling by hired car is also a popular choice.
Weather
 The annual range in temperatures in the Lourdes area is from -5°C to 20°C. Overall, the climate is influenced by the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Similar to Biarritz, Lourdes experiences rather mild, temperate weather throughout the year.
The winters here see some of France’s warmest temperatures. Summers are characterised by warm days that are tempered by cool breezes from the Atlantic. The region is a suitable destination for visitors year-round. Rainfall ranges from 144 to 333mms per month. In the summertime, the weather in the mountains can be quite rainy, but in general rainfall occurs in short downpours that can occur at any time of the year.
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