Family Pilgrimage to Lourdes: A Journey of Faith and Exploration

A Day Above the Clouds

Today was nothing short of spectacular! Leaving the comfort of La Residence Au Berceau de Bernadette behind, my family and I embarked on an adventure that took us high above the charming town of Lourdes.


Experience the warmth of home at La Residence Au Berceau de Bernadette in Lourdes, just steps from historic sites and serene landscapes.

After a delightful breakfast at L'AMI TOULOUSAIN, we set our sights on Pic du Jer, a mountain known for its panoramic views and the historic funicular that carries visitors to its summit. The crisp December air hinted at the beauty that awaited us, and I couldn't wait to capture it all through my lens.

The morning started with a hearty breakfast at L'AMI TOULOUSAIN. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration. The kids were particularly excited about trying some authentic French pastries, and Priya and I enjoyed the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant. It's these little moments of culinary delight that add so much to our travel experiences. I made sure to try the local 'Garbure', a traditional soup, which the owner told me Bernadette herself would have eaten regularly.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we made our way towards the Funiculaire du Pic du Jer.


Ascend to panoramic Pyrenees views via a historic funicular. Explore walking trails, caves, and enjoy breathtaking scenery overlooking Lourdes. An unforgettable experience awaits!

The base of the mountain was bustling with fellow travelers eager to experience the ascent. Aarav's eyes lit up as he spotted the funicular, a charming train-like carriage that would be our ride to the top. As we boarded, I couldn't help but marvel at the engineering of this over-a-century-old railway. It has been transporting visitors up the steep slopes since 1900. The ascent itself was an experience. The funicular cars climbed at gradients of 28 to 56%. Through the windows, we watched as Lourdes shrunk below us, replaced by a stunning tapestry of green forests and rocky outcrops. Aarav peppered us with questions about how the funicular worked, and I did my best to explain the mechanics in a way that an eight-year-old could understand.

The view from the Terrazza panoramica di Pic du Jer wasn't just a treat for the eyes; it was a balm for the soul.

Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of Lourdes and the Pyrenees via a historic funicular, explore scenic trails, and discover the fascinating underground caves of Pic du Jer.

Reaching the summit, we were greeted by a vista that truly took our breath away. The Terrazza panoramica di Pic du Jer offered a 360-degree view of Lourdes and the surrounding Pyrenees Mountains. Despite it being December, the sky was clear, and the sun cast a golden glow over the landscape. It was a photographer's dream come true, and I busied myself capturing the stunning scenery from every possible angle. Priya and Aarav joined me in pointing out landmarks and mountain peaks, using the orientation table to identify them. The air was crisp and invigorating, and we took deep breaths, savoring the tranquility of this elevated vantage point.

After soaking in the panoramic views, we decided to explore the area around the summit. We followed a walking trail that led us through a grove of trees, their branches bare against the winter sky. The trail eventually led us to the entrance of the Pic du Jer grottos, caves hidden within the mountain. We decided to embark on a guided tour, eager to discover the secrets of this underground world. Our guide led us through a series of tunnels, pointing out the various rock formations and explaining the geological history of the Pyrenees. Aarav was fascinated by the stalactites and stalagmites, and I found myself marveling at the forces of nature that had shaped these caves over millions of years. The caves are open to visit from May to September and feature concretions and chasms.

As the afternoon wore on, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time for lunch. We descended from the mountain and sought out Asian Delices Food.


Discover authentic Filipino cuisine at Asian Delices Food in Lourdes, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and cultural heritage.

As someone who appreciates trying new cuisines, I was intrigued by the prospect of Filipino food in the heart of France. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff greeted us with warm smiles. We ordered a variety of dishes, including pork adobo and lechon paksiw, and each one was bursting with flavor. It was a delightful culinary experience that transported us to the Philippines, if only for an hour. The staff were very friendly, and the prices were fair.

With our appetites satisfied, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. We made our way to Boutique Sainte Anne.


Discover unique souvenirs and religious artifacts at Boutique Sainte Anne, a charming gift shop in the heart of Lourdes, France.

As an immigration consultant, I always appreciate the opportunity to learn about different cultures and religions, and Lourdes is certainly a place where faith is palpable. The shop was filled with beautiful items, from rosaries and crucifixes to statues of the Virgin Mary. Priya purchased a delicate necklace with a Miraculous Medal, while Aarav chose a small wooden cross to hang in his room. I picked up a travel-sized prayer book, a reminder of the spiritual significance of Lourdes. The shop is known for its welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff.

As evening approached, we found ourselves drawn to the aromas wafting from Ganapathy Restaurant.


Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Ganapathy Restaurant in Lourdes—where every dish tells a story.

Being of Mauritian descent, I have a soft spot for Indian cuisine, a legacy of the Indian laborers who came to Mauritius in the 19th century. The restaurant was warm and inviting, and the menu featured a wide array of dishes from different regions of India. We ordered a selection of curries, biryanis, and tandoori specialties, and each dish was a symphony of spices and aromas. Aarav, who is usually a picky eater, surprised us by devouring a plate of butter chicken with gusto. The staff were friendly and attentive, making our dining experience even more enjoyable. The restaurant is located near the Château Fort.

As we strolled back to our hotel, the illuminated cross atop Pic du Jer served as a beacon, a reminder of the day's adventures and the spiritual significance of Lourdes. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Museum of the Miracles of Lourdes, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chapelle de la Résurrection, each promising a deeper understanding of this revered pilgrimage site. Before heading back I want to experience the Joan of Arc Cafe. Today was a day of reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It's moments like these that make travel so enriching, broadening our horizons and deepening our appreciation for the world around us.

The winter weather called for warm clothing, which we were glad to have remembered. I was kicking myself for forgetting the portable charger, though. It would have been useful for all the photos I took today!

Good night from Lourdes!