Hôtel Hélianthe

The room was modern and clean, with a nice shower, though it was tiny. Mine was right by the elevator, so I could hear it and people talking and walking outside. The staff were nice, and I really appreciated being able to leave my bag there for a few hours after checkout. The breakfast area was clean and spacious, but the food disappointed me: just one kind of cereal, some sort of cereal ball, no hot food, only a toaster. Muesli or cornflakes would be a healthier option. The hotel is centrally located in Lourdes, but Google Maps sent me on a wild goose chase. Check Street View before you go; once you've found it, it's easy, though it's on a quiet, narrow backstreet shared with the two homes of Bernadette. I'd stay again, but it wouldn't be my first choice.

The room was affordable, clean, and comfortable, with a lovely mountainside view. In summer, the windows opened for a cool breeze, and the staff were friendly and spoke English. I felt safe walking back from the Grotto's nighttime Mass. The hotel is very close to the sanctuary, restaurants, and shops around it. I'd highly recommend it for a pilgrimage to Lourdes.

We received a wonderfully warm welcome, and the staff were amazing and genuinely helpful. The hotel is in a peaceful spot, just a few minutes' walk from the Sanctuary and pilgrimage sites. It's a perfect base for discovering the Sanctuary of Lourdes and the Basilica. I'd highly recommend it for a visit or pilgrimage to Lourdes.

The receptionist seemed pleasant and the hotel itself didn’t look bad, but be very careful when booking because they seem unwilling to make exceptions. I booked through Agoda in April, one day before check-in, and was charged automatically for a non-refundable room. Only then did I notice I’d accidentally booked for July. I went to the hotel the next day, three months before the stay, to ask about cancelling. The receptionist said it was up to Agoda. Agoda told me cancellation needed the hotel’s approval. When I returned, the same receptionist said they’d email Agoda to approve it. Two weeks later I was told the hotel had ultimately refused.