The town of Lourdes might never be thought of as a hiking destination, but only as a gateway in accessing the Pyrénées mountains in South-West of France. To base oneself in there and do daily tours or rent a car in visiting around the area, it is perfect. Buses also bring both locals and tourists to the other towns like Cauterets for skiing, Pic du Midi and other towns.
For a Catholic with a bit of hiking and adventure on the side, I can fully recommend LOURDES. This quiet town comes alive on those occasions during the Marian festivities where pilgrims flock to the grotto in throngs, representing their church/groups from different countries, joining together in celebrations with night time processions. Throughout the year, pilgrims trickle down non-stop, but mostly of Italians and the French collecting some spring water, believed to be miraculous.
Surrounding Lourdes are low-lying mountains at the foot of the Pyrénées. From here, choices are there on which mountain, what trail to take and what view to see for the day.
A milder trail can also bring hikers to Aspen en Lavedan for less than an hour, one way.
Hiking alone is ok, there'll be goats grazing around to say hello to.
As with any hike; don't forget your water, snacks and first-aid kit and a whistle. Although low-lying and cars can be heard, there's not a lot of hikers. I've seen a couple of bikers as some trails are part of the mountain biking trail connections from Lourdes.
Facing the River Gave from the town center, there are choices of trails to the left of the river. Some trails are marked so there's no worry. Just make sure to go down before the sun sets.
For the most awesome views, there is a valley overlooking the Pyrénées. Keep them to your left when going up. Though some trails can be very steep, there are also electric barbed wire in some parts when reaching the valley.
Some weeds can be as high till the waist so just follow the trails. In saying that, anyone can make their own trail. Just be aware of your surroundings as dead ends can be there too.
Overlooking Lourdes.
With all my hikes here, being alone wasn't a problem. Obviously, accidents can happen so bringing a whistle, a phone or anything that can give a signal is very important. On top of those low-lying mountains, a phone signal is present.
Outside those occasions where pilgrims flock to Lourdes, it is a very quiet town. Having a few pubs and restaurants, night life can just be spent there or in one's hotel. In accessing the basilica or the grotto, the gates open very early.
With the train station just around the corner, the airport 15 minutes away, Lourdes is very much accessible. Next to Lourdes is Toulouse, about 2 hours away by train, more or less. As for Paris, it will take 4 hours by train and there's no flight available from there.
Allonsy!
