Ruoms(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Lourdes, the standout choice is Hôtel Le Clos des Oliviers, a boutique hotel blending Provençal heritage with modern comfort. Nestled in the historic district, it features olive groves, terracotta tiles, and handmade ceramic fittings. Guests enjoy breakfast with locally pressed olive oil and fresh baguettes. Its proximity to the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Church and ancient Roman aqueducts makes it ideal for cultural immersion. The hotel also hosts seasonal olive festivals and cooking workshops using regional ingredients.

The Old Town (Vieux Lourdes) is the prime area for first-time travelers. Cobblestone streets wind through centuries-old stone houses adorned with bougainvillea. Within minutes, you’ll reach the Town Hall Square and bustling market. It’s also near the Alpine foothill hiking trails and the Roman Aqueduct Ruins. Stay on Rue de la Paix or Rue du Château for authentic charm, easy access, and a genuine taste of southern French life.

Don’t miss the monthly Olive Festival (Fête de l'Olive), where you can press olives yourself and learn to cook Provençal ratatouille. Guided tours of the Ancient Roman Aqueduct reveal stories in both French and local dialect. In the evenings, enjoy live performances at the Open-Air Theater, featuring traditional Provencal folk songs sung in regional language. These immersive events offer deep insight into the region’s artistic soul and rural traditions.

Yes, Hotel Les Glycines is a top-rated family-friendly option in Lourdes. It offers spacious family suites, a kids’ playroom, and hands-on cooking classes for children. The garden features a small animal enclosure where kids can feed goats and rabbits. Located just 10 minutes from Lourdes Nature Park, it’s perfect for nature walks and birdwatching. The hotel also provides bilingual guided tours, helping families connect with local farming heritage.

Must-try dishes include grilled lamb chops with Provençal sauce, made from locally raised sheep and fresh thyme. Another highlight is olive oil-fried eggs with wild mushrooms, crafted with organic produce from nearby farms. Visit the Marché de Lourdes market to sample honey-lemon tarts (Tarte au Citron Miel) and red wine stewed beef (Bœuf en Daube). Some restaurants, like Le Jardin des Sens, even feature Michelin-starred chef menus showcasing the region’s refined culinary artistry.

The best seasons are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). Temperatures hover between 20–25°C, ideal for hiking along the Alpine foothill trails and exploring ancient Roman ruins. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and early lavender blooms; autumn offers golden vineyards and harvest festivals. Summer is warm but manageable with visits to the Lourdes Spa Center. Winter sees occasional snow, appealing to skiers, though some attractions may close.

Couples should book the starlit terrace suite at Hôtel Le Clos des Oliviers, where you can stargaze under pristine night skies. At dawn, walk together to the bell tower of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Church for panoramic views of the valley. Afternoon hikes along the Alpine stream path lead to secluded lakeside spots for a private picnic. Evenings include a private cooking class to prepare a Provençal dinner together, complete with rose champagne and macarons, creating unforgettable memories.

Yes, Lourdes is well-connected despite its small size. Direct buses from Marseille Provence Airport take about 1.5 hours, or rent a car via A7 highway for scenic drives. The town has free shuttle buses linking major sites. The Old Town is pedestrian-only, so walking or renting bicycles is ideal. For trips to surrounding Alpine areas, use the TransPACA regional bus system, which runs frequently and covers all key destinations. Many hotels offer complimentary pickup services for added convenience.

Evenings in Lourdes are magical. At 8 PM, the Town Hall Square lights up with vintage lanterns, while street musicians play guitar and accordion. On weekends, enjoy live shows at the open-air theater, including Provencal puppet plays and jazz nights. Some restaurants, like La Petite Étoile, offer starlight dinners on rooftop terraces with views of the Milky Way. Additionally, the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Church hosts seasonal candlelit concerts, blending classical music with local chants—serene and deeply moving.

Must-buy items include handcrafted olive oil and lavender sachets from family-run workshops, known for their authentic aroma. The local pottery studio offers custom glazed plates engraved with your name—perfect keepsakes. Visit the historic apothecary shop for Provencal herbal essential oils, ideal for massage or natural insect repellent. For something unique, purchase Roman-style stone figurines hand-carved by local artists—each piece reflects the region’s rich artistic legacy and craftsmanship.