Bastide de Lestelle-Bétharram Towns, Villages and Bastides in Lestelle-Bétharram

Located not far from Lourdes and Pau, in the Pays de Nay valley, the commune of Lestelle-Bétharram is a harmonious blend of history, nature and spirituality.

A bit of history

Founded in the 14th century, Lestelle-Bétharram is a bastide, that is to say a new town created according to an orthogonal plan. It owes its fame to its sanctuary, an important place of pilgrimage even before Lourdes.

What to see and do in Lestelle-Bétharram?

• The Sanctuary of Betharram : this magnificent religious building is a must-see. Its richly decorated chapel and its Calvary offer a peaceful atmosphere conducive to meditation.
• The Bétharram caves are among the largest in Europe. They offer a breathtaking natural spectacle with its stalactites, stalagmites and underground rivers.
• The bastide : stroll through the town’s narrow streets to admire its typical architecture.
• The Heritage Museum of the Fathers of Bétharram : discover the history of the sanctuary and the Fathers of Bétharram.
• Outdoor activities : hiking, mountain biking, fishing... There are many possibilities to enjoy the surrounding nature.

On the road to Santiago de Compostela

Lestelle-Bétharram is also a stopover on the Way of St. James. Many pilgrims stop there to recharge their batteries and discover this place full of history.