Things to do in Arrens-Marsous

Step into an explosion of color and artistry in the impressive Basilica of Notre Dame du Rosaire, which is also known as the Rosary Basilica. This Byzantine-styled cathedral is smaller than its two neighbors, but is perhaps more artistically striking. Visit this active place of worship and stay to marvel at the mosaics.

The Grotto of Massabielle, also known as the Grotto of Apparitions, is visited by about 6 million pilgrims every year. Visit the site of a spring which was unearthed by a teenage peasant in the 19th century after a visitation from the Virgin Mary. Hear stories of how the water that flows here is said to have healed countless visitors since it was first discovered.

Join flocks of devoted pilgrims on a trip to the Basilica of Notre Dame de l’Immaculée-Conception. This distinctive landmark is hard to miss; a towering 19th-century church that sits above the Grotto of Massebielle, a world-famous pilgrimage destination. Visit to marvel at the architecture and to experience a moment of reflection inside the hushed interior.

Travel to Lourdes and there is a slim chance you will miss the Basilica of St. Pius X. Although this cathedral is impressively large, it’s also built entirely underground. Stand in awe of its gigantic nave and watch as it fills with tens of thousands of pilgrims thronging to the town on religious feast days.

The Formigal Ski Resort encompasses a wide stretch of stunning slopes in Aramon, the western part of the Pyrenees on the French border. Ski or snowboard on varied slopes, from gentle beginner runs to expert-graded and freeride deep snow areas. Explore the four valleys, Tres Hombres-Sextas, Izas-Sarrios, Anayet and Portalet. Warm up between skiing sessions with a delicious cup of Spanish hot chocolate.