Great days out in the Pyrénées

1. Lourdes

The famous pilgrimage of Lourdes has a very interesting history and is well worth a visit. Learn about the story of Bernadette Soubirous, the founder of the pilgrimage. Thousands of visitors flock to the pilgrimage each year to become cured of any illness they may have or to become blessed. This internationally known place of pilgrimage welcomes over 5 million people: tourists, visitors and pilgrims during a period of 7 months (1 April - 31 October). To cater for this number of people a large number of facilities are available.
www.lourdes-france.com

2. Planète Aquarium Lourdes

This aquarium in Lourdes concentrates mainly on marine life in the Pyrenees. There are six different sections to the aquarium, the lakes of the Pyrenees, the Pyrenean world, discovery room, marshland, the Sturgeon and also a 3D cinema.
www.aquarium-tropical-pierrefitte.com/

3. Donjon des Aigles

This bird of prey park at the Château de Beaucens is a great day out for all the family. Here you can see many different species of birds of prey at the daily falconry show including condor eagles the largest flying bird in existence.

4. Grottes de Betharram

Discovered in 1810, the Grottes de Betharram are considered to be some of the most beautiful caves in the world. An underground train and boat will take you through the five levels, each formed in a different era.
www.grottes-de-betharram.com/main/base_gb.htm

5. Pau

Capital of the Béarn department, this attractive city was “discovered” by the British in the 19th century and soon became a prominent winter resort. The Château de Pau is a medieval fortress transformed into a Renaissance palace by the Viscounts of Béarn in the 16th century. The Musée Béarnais, housed in the château, displays an ethnographical collection of the region.