Awoke to sunshine- rain definitely gone! Packed up and drove over the river to the other side of town. Parked and wandered, finding a lovely square bordered by bars and cafes. Chose one for a coffee and croissant before heading off on our drive to Lourdes, the motorway detouring via Toulouse though we chose to continue on (not enough hours in the day for yet another massive city!) Yet again the scenery was spectacular - rolling green hills , farmlands, fields of sunflowers, vineyards - even spotted some cattle!
Lourdes is only about 20km off the
motorway so seemed a necessary detour- though really we were unsure of what to expect and whether our detour would be worthwhile. I logged “the grotto” in the GPS and we took pot luck. Yet another overwhelming experience prevailed! Regardless of your religious persuasion you have to appreciate the beauty and serenity, despite the number of people (and no doubt at times this would be crazy!) Such a beautifully picturesque location- it truly is a sanctuary. Disregarding the fact that there is an incredible Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Rosary Basilica and the Crypt - the Grotto and the story behind Bernadette Soubirous siting apparitions of Our Lady (in 1858) and ultimately being canonised certainly create an aura of mysticism and reverence. To witness the throng of elderly and disabled, predominantly in wheelchairs, plus others from all nationalities and walks of life is fascinating, if not moving. Their lighting of candles, prayers and collection of holy water is almost obsessive.
You just need to try and overlook the somewhat tacky souvenir shops and their produce ...and have a chuckle - all a tad over the top! At times the relatively small town bursts at the seams - so many hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops to accommodate! And wheelchairs and assistants are in abundance!
We enjoyed a pizza and drink before we continued on for just less than an hour to Pau (an area at the foot of the Pyrénées on the Tour de France route).
Had some difficulty locating our hotel, right on a central square, due to heaps of major roadworks impeding access. Finally made it on foot, then our next priority was locating a car wash as we have to return our car tomorrow - clean inside and out! With help from our friend on reception- and google maps- we found one a couple of kilometres away and all was sorted without drama. Back to the hotel, freshened up and off to
wander. Definitely time for refreshments! The hotels and bars overlooking the railway and across to
the picturesque mountains were our choice! Thoroughly enjoyed a bottle of Rose, and a couple of delicious salads in a lovely location (despite major refurbishments) with cool breezes.
Wandered back to “our square” for a drink at bar Oscar and Owen” before returning for an early night .