Scenically located at the foothills of the Pyrenees in southwestern France, Lourdes is best known for the Sanctuaires Notre-Dame that attracts millions of pilgrims throughout the year. The spring water from the grotto is believed by some Catholics to possess healing properties and is considered one of the world's most important pilgrimage sites.
Apart from its other attractions like the castle fort and the Pic du Jer funicular, the region is home to umpteen walking/cycling trails and offers a large range of outdoor activities for the adventurous. Be it skiing at the Hautacam resort, kayaking or canyoning along the Gave de Pau river, or just relaxing on the shore of the Lac de Lourdes, there's plenty to do.
