In July 2015, the Jacquaire Welcome Center in Lourdes opened its doors, marking a significant milestone for pilgrims on the way to Santiago de Compostela. Established under the leadership of Josette Bourdeu, the center at 16 Boulevard de la Grotte was initiated by Alain Garrot, the first deputy and an avid walker on the Camino de Santiago. Managed by the Association "A la Croisée des chemins," the center has become a vital resource for those embarking on this spiritual journey.
The initiative was supported by Lucienne Mur, president of the "Friends of Saint-Jacques 65," and Isabelle Rebattu, the sub-prefect at the time. Recognizing the need for better visibility of the pilgrimage routes, Rebattu established a departmental steering committee that worked on creating a shared brochure for the four recognized sites of the region, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage: the church of "Notre-Dame de l’Assomption" in Aragnouet, the church of "Saint-Jean Baptiste" in Gavarnie, the church of "Saint-Jacques" in Ourdis-Cotdoussan, and the church of "Saint-Laurent" in Jézeau.
The rationale behind establishing a Jacquaire information center in Lourdes is clear: "Compostelle and Lourdes: two pilgrimage sites rooted in European history and culture." Lourdes, a major Marian city since the late 19th century, serves as a starting point for many pilgrims heading to the Sanctuary of Saint-Jacques, revered for over a thousand years. The ancient path crosses the Pyrenees and continues into the Iberian Peninsula, ultimately leading to Galicia.
Arriving via the marked GR 653 route from Arles and Toulouse, an increasing number of pilgrims wish to stop at the foot of the Massabielle Grotto. Some view it as a starting point, eager to touch the rock, light a candle, and drink from the spring. On the map and in the minds of many, Lourdes is on the path. After Lourdes, pilgrims continue westward via the Piémont Pyrénéen trail (GR 78), crossing the Pyrenees to reach the legendary Roncevaux monastery. In Spain, they still face an 800-kilometer trek on the Camino Frances to finally arrive at the sanctuary of Santiago de Compostela.
Other routes allow pilgrims to cross the Pyrenees at the Somport Pass (Aspe Valley) by diverting at Oloron-Sainte-Marie, where they can rejoin the GR 653. They can also traverse the mountains directly south of Lourdes, staying within the Hautes-Pyrénées department, reaching Aragon via high mountain paths from the Azun Valley or Gavarnie. Thus, several Jacquaire routes crisscross the region, with Lourdes at the crossroads of these paths.
At the center, pilgrims seek spiritual respite, information, and a "credencial," a booklet that they must stamp at various pilgrimage stages. The Jacquaire Information Center, open from April to October, welcomed around 15,000 visitors in its last season, providing guidance to those heading to Santiago, answering inquiries from future pilgrims, and facilitating exchanges with volunteers and other pilgrims.
Volunteers, numbering between 30 and 40 each year, also offered lists of reasonably priced hotels and restaurants catering to these travelers. The center's location on Boulevard de la Grotte, a key passage area, was advantageous, and part of the premises also served as an annex to the tourist office.
Last year, the city relocated the Jacquaire Information Center to 4, Chaussée du Bourg, a street not known for heavy tourist traffic, although the building is city-owned. On Saturday, April 12, 2025, the center celebrated its seasonal reopening for the second consecutive year. Visitors were welcomed by President Jean-Michel Leroux and his team, alongside both new and returning volunteers from Lourdes and beyond.
The reception began at 9:30 AM with coffee and refreshments, allowing attendees to learn more about the center's activities and services. At 10:30 AM, the association organized a hike lasting about an hour and a half through the streets of Lourdes, showcasing the pilgrimage paths that traverse the Marian city.
For more information about the Jacquaire Center, interested parties can reach out at 06 59 88 82 53 or via email at [email protected].
Meanwhile, the pilgrimage spirit resonates with many, including 80-year-old Daniel Saint-Hamont, who recently published a book titled "Compostelle pour les vieux" on March 27, 2025. In it, he humorously recounts his first pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago, which he undertook at over 70 years old, walking nearly 1,600 kilometers in just 60 days. Initially aiming for a mere 200 kilometers, he found himself captivated by the journey.
"We set out as hikers, but we arrive as pilgrims," Saint-Hamont reflects, emphasizing the transformation that occurs along the way. His experience has led him to complete three Caminos by the age of 80, and he plans to walk another 350 kilometers in May 2025 with his friend Jean-Pierre.
Saint-Hamont encourages others, especially seniors, to embrace the challenge of walking, stating, "Rise and walk!" He believes that regardless of age or physical limitations, everyone can embark on this journey, starting with small steps and gradually progressing.
His journey has not only been a physical challenge but a spiritual awakening. "The path teaches humility, tolerance, and listening. The spiritual dimension imposes itself upon you. My faith has grown with every step, even if I didn't emphasize it in the book," he shares.
In another inspiring narrative, Marion Police and Hugo Cousino, a couple from Valais, have been walking from Portugal to Belgium since February 2025, covering 3,000 kilometers. Currently in France, they have already traversed 1,100 kilometers. Their journey is about slowing down, connecting with others, and rediscovering what truly matters.
Lastly, a new footbridge was inaugurated in Saint-Vincent-de-Paul on April 18, 2025, enhancing the Compostelle trail. This structure, spanning 11 meters with a 5-meter gap, allows hikers to cross a stream while marking a new hiking route. It aims to provide a safer and more pleasant experience for the 800 to 1,000 accredited hikers who pass through the area each year.
As the pilgrimage continues to draw people from all walks of life, the stories of resilience, discovery, and connection serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Camino de Santiago.
