I was amazed that this property could be both so very secluded but also within a short walking distance of the centre of French life, Les Halles, the market. Also close by was the Tourist Office, very helpful in giving advice. Also, there was a mini supermarket which certainly stocked enough goods for all basic needs. I do recommend Les Halles for buying all manner of things, obviously bread, cheese, ham, also made dishes, I loved the Ratatouille. There was also a big outdoors market one day for produce from the area; I bought white asparagus, salad stuff, pork rillettes and some lovely Apricot jam.
Some of these stalls were quite large, others small, I noticed that some elderly ladies were selling a few items, some homemade jam and a few vegetables or eggs. A very vibrant atmosphere, it was a 'catch up' and allowed everyone to talk about the past weeks' events.
As everywhere, tremendous friendliness towards me and my friend- something to be remembered.
For many, the importance of Lourdes is for the shrine to The Virgin. Very easy to get to there by foot or on a bus. The bus, from memory, S5, is a circular one about 6minutes from the house. It goes to the Basilica. The roads near the shrine are full of shops selling typical tourist things relating to Lourdes. Having said that Incame across a very interesting shop that sold fossils and I purchased an Ammonite as my souvenir.
I also took bus to SNCF Gare to take localbus to Cauterets - check times - , terrific journey towards foothills of Pyrenees; two people selling their wares, bought more cheese, olives, pork and duck pate. Had a pleasant meal and returned. Cauterets very much a ski resort but worth a visit.
Took train from SNCF Lourdes to Pau, a University town also very historic as Henri fourth of Navarre had palace there, also for those interested in history, Bernadotte, who founded the line of the present Swedish Royal family was born there.
Back to the house; a beautifully presented property with a delightful garden, long and private because of position and the trees. Lovely to sit outside and enjoy a coffee or glass of wine.
I would certainly wish to return again; a word of advice, make sure you understand the two controls for the TV, not complicated but I wasn't used to dual control. I know that M Desmales will ensure that a few basics are left if someone is arriving late.
A very enjoyable seven days, a part of France I had not visited before; delightful in every way.
