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On the road to Lourdes: 6 lesser-known local attractions that shouldn’t be missed
by Heather
2 minutes 23 seconds read.

Heather
People holding candles outside lourdes church.Lourdes is only 30 minutes drive from Clos Mirabel Manor

Is a trip to Lourdes on your bucket list?

You’re not alone. Lourdes is the second most popular tourist site in France after Paris. Every year, millions of soul-searchers come to Lourdes from across the globe hoping to be cleansed of their sins and cured of their illnesses … or to simply admire its beautiful and sacred buildings. It happens to be one of the most popular destinations for our guests here at Clos Mirabel Manor too.

Only 30 minutes away by car, Clos Mirabel Manor B&B and Holiday Lets is a great base from which to explore Lourdes. You’re close enough to visit daily but far enough away from the commercial hustle and bustle to experience a more ‘authentic’ France too.

Travelling to Lourdes by car also enables you to explore some of the area’s hidden gems because, whilst Lourdes is certainly great, there are some lesser known attractions en route that are equally worthy of a visit. Here are 6 of our favourites:

1. Grottes de Bétharram (Bétharram Caves): Described as a fairyland of stalagmites, stalactites, draperies and columns, this spectacular subterranean world can be explored by foot, boat and train. Tours last 90 minutes. Warm clothing recommended.
2. Cave de Gan: The 6th most visited business in France, Cave de Gan invites you to explore the Jurançon winery free of charge and learn about the history and tradition of the region’s wine. If it’s a perfect day of wine tasting you’re after then look no further.
3. Musée Du Béret (The Beret Museum): This small but fascinating museum is dedicated to the history and manufacture of France’s most iconic headwear. There’s also a gift shop where you can buy a genuine French beret before you leave.
4. Zoo d’Asson: Located just outside Asson, between Pau and Lourdes this is a relatively small but utterly feel-good family zoo committed to the well-being of all its animals. The zoo plays a vital role in the conservation of endangered species such as Siberian tigers, snow leopards, red pandas, monkeys and lemurs.
5. Nay Market No trip to France is complete without visiting a traditional French market. Established in 1302, Nay Market is a typical rural market packed with fresh local produce and oodles of regional charm. Tuesday and Saturday mornings, Place de la Repulique.
6. Baudreix Lakes: Something for the kids! Between Pau and Lourdes, you’ll find Baudreix Lake. Built for supervised swimming it boasts huge water slides and thrilling water sports including water skiing and kayaking.

Of course, we are always on hand to help you plan your day trips and excursions. Or you could just do what many of our guests do which is just sit back, relax and enjoy the peace and beauty of your surroundings at Clos Mirabel in the foothills of the Py­rénées.

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