Le Lourdou: Way of the Cross in Belcastel

Departure: opposite the Old Bridge in Belcastel

(S/E) Follow the river downstream towards the Pont Neuf, ignore two roads on the right and arrive at a third fork.

(1) Continue along the river. After the Moulin de Paraire, turn left, cross the meadow and then the footbridge over the river.

(2) Take the stairs and follow the Way of the Cross. The path winds through the rocks and joins the gravel road that leads to the Fort Roc d'Anglars. Continue to a fork.

(3) At the junction, continue straight ahead until you reach the road, then turn left.

(4) 50 metres after crossing the stream, turn left and the path leads to the village. Keep to the right, then left on the road. Cross the Aveyron river and return to the starting point (S/E).

- Wear sturdy footwear.
- Bring some food and drink.
- Hikers travel the route at their own risk. They remain responsible for any accidents they may be involved in and any damage they may cause to others (forest fires, damage, pollution, etc.).
- Ensure that your vehicle is parked in an authorised area; parking in the village is regulated (municipal by-law).
- Stay on the trails and do not take shortcuts. If the route changes, follow the new markings.
- Be considerate. We are not alone on the trails, so think of others.
- Take your rubbish with you. Leave no trace of your visit, do not throw anything on the ground, take a rubbish bag with you.
- Keep your dog on a leash, especially near houses or livestock.
- Close gates and barriers behind you, and walk around crops. It is important to respect the work of those who shape and preserve our environment.
- Follow the rules of certain places.
- Do not light fires. Covered areas (forests) or areas that are too exposed (scrubland, dry heathland, etc.) can catch fire very quickly.
- Do not drink water from streams. Clear water does not mean it is safe to drink.
- Find out about hunting seasons, as some routes may be dangerous.

The Lourdou sanctuary is a cave with an altar inside. A statue of Our Lady of Lourdes dominates the religious site, hence the name "little Lourdes" (Lourdou in Occitan).
It consists of a cave and a Way of the Cross. The stations of the Way of the Cross are represented by wooden crosses.
It was created on the initiative of Abbé Gély, the parish priest of Belcastel, at the end of^{the 19th} century, who considered that the place resembled the Grotto of Massabielle. He therefore had a statue of Mary installed there. The first Mass was celebrated there in 1889.
A wooden footbridge was built to provide access, leading to the entrance of the Way of the Cross.
In the past, visitors had to either cross the river or descend a steep path from the road between Belcastel and Le Pont-Neuf on the left bank.

Belcastel.