Everything began with the first apparition in February 1858, when Bernadette Soubirous encountered the Virgin Mary near the Grotto of Massabielle. Another 17 apparitions followed, but four years passed until 1862 when the Catholic Church acknowledged their authenticity. In 1866, Bernadette joined the Sisters of Never and was canonized a Saint in 1933. Today, devotees of the Catholic faith can follow 'In the Footsteps of Bernadette' during the Daily Pilgrimage Service, offered in the summer. The final destination is the Rosary Basilica, built on the spot where Bernadette saw the apparitions. Special conditions are provided for pilgrims with disabilities, who can reside at the Accueil Notre-Dame before setting out on the pilgrimage. As a result of its popularity, Lourdes now receives about 6 million visitors per year.

Lourdes is popular not only as a religious center, but also as a paradise for mountain-lovers. Numerous attractive facilities and leisure opportunities abound, and if you prefer a peaceful or more aristocratic type of pastime, do not hesitate to play a game on Lourdes' golf course. If you happen to have an adventurous heart, go for white-water rafting, canoe-kayaking and canyoning in The Wild Gaves, Ecolorado or Relais D'Isaby. For an even wilder experience, visit the ChloroFil Adventure Park to try various tree activities. You can also look at the Lourdes' Country on horseback or donkey, or simply go hiking along the marked footpaths, crossing picturesque villages and valleys. In the winter, the area of Lourdes turns into an excellent starting point for alpine and cross-country skiing. While not Lourdes itself, another eight small towns in the region are spa centers where you can relax in the healing waters of hot springs, especially after a day on the ski runs.

Whichever the season, part of your free time should undoubtedly be devoted to exploring the famous specialties of southwestern France. Lourdes, in particular, is known for producing candy, biscuits and home-made chocolates, so beware if you have a sweet tooth. Another very interesting dessert, probably nearly extinct elsewhere, is the so-called 'spit' cake, because it is baked on a spit over an open fire. It is a specialty for weddings and festivities. In case you like shopping, don't miss the Lourdes street market, where you will find typical local produce like Tarbais beans, Trebons onions, Pyrenean lamb, duck or goose specialties, and more. Certainly don't miss tasting Pyrenean cheeses and wines in the dairies and cellars of Lourdes. Or simply treat yourself to a luxurious dinner in restaurants such as Relais de Saux and Le Magret (the latter is in the Michelin guide). Taverne de Bigorre in downtown Lourdes also offers its guests a wonderful country-style menu. Before leav ing, remember to get yourself something to keep you warm on long winter nights, perhaps a traditional item made of Pyrenean wool, for example.