A sacred place, but hard to access from other parts of the country (we flew in from Barcelona and…read moretook a bus from there). The grounds are huge and it took several days to explore everything (from the grotto, upper/lower basilicas, stations, etc.). Unfortunately, this place is also referred to as the "Catholic Disneyland", with shops and carts selling food and souvenirs all up and down the street. The town itself is pretty walkable. Make sure to see the candlelight procession if you can 2025 #74

Beautiful Basilica in honor of the Virgin Mary. Had the privileged to attend a mass with most…read morecardinals present.

Faith and religious belief, or the lack of it is private. There are billions of believers in multi…read morefaiths and today here there were folks from all over the world. To see so many people on trolleys and hospital type beds here lying in line to go into the baths here and many clearly at the end of their lives is truly humbling whether or not you believe in life hereafter.

A unique church in the complex of churches in Lourdes surrounding the grotto. It is buried…read moreunderground so I did not notice it for several days. It is large and very roomy but also feels like bunker compare to a traditional church. it is very roomy with no pillars in the way of the altar.

The hotel location is a very quick three minute walk to the Lourdes Shrine. The hotel is clean but…read moredoes not look like the photos on the website. The room was large but the beds are very small. The toilet is in a separate part of your room and not with the shower. There is no AC so windows must be left open to get cool air. The food is just awful! Both nights I stayed I went to bed hungry.

Hotel is very close to the Lourdes grotto , a short 3 minute walk…read more An older style of decor and layout in the lobby and dining areas but the room we had seems standard : twin beds for double occupancy and thermostat control. Porter service and elevator for at least four at a time. Toilet is separate from sink and bathtub/shower. In room safe needs your own combination so either write it or use some you remember! Breakfast buffet for our group of 47, with fresh bread and croissants. I like trying dairy products while overseas- they are oftentimes creamier and flavorful. Very close to shops for religious articles and other souvenirs. Cafes and restaurants plentiful. Most people take home containers of the Lourdes spring water , which is know. For miraculous healing, as part of Catholic tradition.