Distance
750 km (full) / 120 km (final stages)
Duration
30–35 days (full) / 7–8 days (final stages from Aire-sur-l'Adour)
Difficulty
ChallengingStart Point
Le Puy-en-Velay (or Aire-sur-l'Adour for shorter option)
About This Route
The Via Podiensis (GR65) is the most famous French pilgrimage route, a 750 km journey from Le Puy-en-Velay through the landscapes of the Massif Central and Gascony before descending into the Pyrenean foothills toward Lourdes. The final 120 km from Aire-sur-l'Adour offer a beautiful standalone itinerary for pilgrims with a week to spare, passing through Arzacq, Arthez-de-Béarn and Pau before the emotional arrival at the Lourdes Sanctuary.
Route Stages
Aire-sur-l'Adour → Arzacq-Arraziguet
36 kmRolling Gascony countryside, oak forests, gentle ascents
Arzacq-Arraziguet → Arthez-de-Béarn
24 kmEnter the Béarn region; views of the Pyrenees begin on clear days
Arthez-de-Béarn → Pau
35 kmDescent to the Gave de Pau; Pau is the elegant capital of Béarn
Pau → Lourdes
42 kmTwo-day final stage; increasing mountain views; emotional sanctuary arrival
Route Highlights
★Views of the Pyrenees from Arthez-de-Béarn ridge
★Medieval town of Sauveterre-de-Béarn
★Arrival at Lourdes Sanctuary by foot
★Pilgrim gîtes with authentic Gascon hospitality
Pilgrim Tips
- 💡Book pilgrim gîtes in advance in peak season (July–August)
- 💡Carry a credential (pilgrim passport) to collect stamps along the way
- 💡The final approach to Lourdes is along the Gave river valley, arrive in the morning to experience the Sanctuary at its quietest
- 💡Walking poles are recommended for the descents into Pau
Want a guided package on this route?
We offer guided pilgrimage packages for most routes, with accommodation, luggage transfer and an English-speaking leader.
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