Why fly to Lourdes?

Lourdes, a small village perched on the Pyrenees, is a special place known throughout the world which attracts more than 5 million pilgrims in search of hope every year.

But why visit Lourdes? The main reason is undoubtedly that of religious tourism.

The story of the apparitions is well known although it may be worth remembering: on 11th February 1858 a lady dressed in white appeared to Bernadette in the grotto of Massabielle presenting herself as the Immaculate Conception.
Whatever the reason that drives the faithful to Lourdes, there are rituals that are repeated and which make this experience unique.

The first stop is certainly the grotto where the miraculous water flows. Here the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette 18 times during the year 1858. Close by, there are tubs where the faithful can bathe one at a time.
The pilgrimage can continue by participating in the international mass that takes place at the Basilica of Saint Pius X, one of the three basilicas that are part of the Sanctuary. However, one of the most intense moments is the Marian Procession that takes place every day at sunset in a mystical and intimate atmosphere.

But if you’re not only interested in going on a spiritual journey why go to Lourdes?

Well, we at Albastar can tell you why. There’s a Lourdes that will surprise you and which you can visit to discover its more “earthly” side. Such as its culinary specialities for example, the goose or duck confits or the garbure, a vegetable and bean soup in which the camayou (boned leg of ham) is cooked.
Lourdes, the second most visited town after Paris, is also the starting point for exploring and getting to know the Pyrenees. If you love trekking, you can hike in the mountains on a network of trails that wind across the Spanish border or go horse riding near Lac de Lourdes, 3 km north-west of the French town.

Would you like to discover this French department?

Make a note of these must-see places:

• the fortress and the Pic du Jer
• the Pic du Midi de Bigorre moutain at 2877 m, with its panoramic terraces and a museum space
• the Pont d’Espagne in the heart of National Park of the Pyrenees where you can admire the incredibly beautiful flora and fauna
• the Cirque de Gavarnie, one of nature’s most spectacular creations.

A question that springs to mind is why choose Albastar to fly to Lourdes?

We at Albastar ensure you enjoy a well-organised trip since we are the leading European airline for direct flights to Lourdes. Over the years we have become an established airline thanks to our connections to many European and Italian airports.
We are the leading carrier for religious tourism in terms of number of pilgrims transported and because we constantly participate in training courses for the care and transportation of people with reduced mobility.

Do you need special assistance?

Here you can find all the information you need to get the required assistance. We know that the reason you are going to Lourdes and how you get there are important to you: we are committed to our work so that you can enjoy your flight experience with peace of mind.

Flying to Lourdes with Albastar is a wonderful experience for all our passengers. Our planes respect EASA’s most stringent safety standards: your peace of mind comes first.

We really want your holiday to start as soon as we take off. Get comfortable: on board you will find a comfortable environment with attention to the smallest details and our personnel who will welcome you with professionalism and a smile on their face.