Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own sheets, bath towels and tea towels for my stay at the Accueil Marie Saint-Frai?
Bed
linen
Wherever you are staying in the accommodation, you will find beds made and ready for you.
If you are visiting as a group, these beds have been made for you by previous guests, and you will make them up again before you leave using the clean linen we provide. The floor manager will show you how to do this.
If you are an individual pilgrim, you do not need to make up the bed.
Table
linen
This is provided to groups for their first meal on site. After that, each group must provide their own placemats and napkins.
Table linen is provided for individual pilgrims.
Bathroom
linen
Group pilgrims must bring their own, including washcloths and bath towels.
Bathroom linen is provided for individual pilgrims.
When I come with a group, do I need to clean the accommodation provided during my stay and on my departure?
Yes, because we are in a house where solidarity and sharing of tasks are part of the spirit of Lourdes. We wish to uphold this founding value not only because it helps keep costs down, but also because it fosters mutual support and kindness. When you arrive, your rooms will be ready and waiting for you; a chain of solidarity has been set in motion since the arrival of the first pilgrimage of the season. The departing pilgrims make up the beds and clean the rooms and bathrooms they have used for the pilgrims who follow. Through these actions, they are already welcoming the pilgrims who will come to Lourdes after them.
Volunteers, the nuns from the Accueil, and the paid staff will provide you with all the necessary equipment for maintaining these living spaces during and at the end of your stay. The floor manager will offer you a group training session on how to clean the facilities properly and make the beds. This is very important: we are committed to applying strict hygiene protocols.
However, the staff at L’Accueil are responsible for all the communal areas of the house; you are not required to look after these.
Volunteers, the nuns from the Accueil, and the paid staff will provide you with all the necessary equipment for maintaining these living spaces during and at the end of your stay. The floor manager will offer you a group training session on how to clean the facilities properly and make the beds. This is very important: we are committed to applying strict hygiene protocols.
However, the staff at L’Accueil are responsible for all the communal areas of the house; you are not required to look after these.
Is the Marie Saint-Frai Reception open 24 hours a day?
Are there night watchmen if I arrive late?
As our hostel is a place of accommodation, it is monitored 24 hours a day by dedicated security staff who will be on hand to welcome you if you arrive between 10 pm and 6 am, so that you can find your way to your accommodation.
Is it possible to do laundry on site during my stay?
Yes, laundry facilities including washing machines, tumble dryers and irons are available.
For groups, for a small fee of €2.00 per person for the duration of the pilgrimage,
For all volunteers, on a self-service basis and free of charge.
For groups, for a small fee of €2.00 per person for the duration of the pilgrimage,
For all volunteers, on a self-service basis and free of charge.
Do you know the timetables for services, the swimming pool area and other activities at the Sanctuaries?
Please visit the Sanctuaries’ website at https://www.lourdes-france.org/horaires/
When I arrive in Lourdes from the SNCF railway station or Lourdes Tarbes Pyrénées Airport, how do I get to the Marie Saint-Frai Welcome Centre?
From the station, as you leave the main hall, you’ll find a shuttle bus service run by a company contracted by the City, which will take you to the Porte St-Joseph at the Sanctuaries; from there, it’s just a stone’s throw to our house.
From the airport, take the ‘https://www.tlp.aeroport.fr/page/navettes-bus’ bus, which waits outside the arrivals hall, or a taxi.
From the airport, take the ‘https://www.tlp.aeroport.fr/page/navettes-bus’ bus, which waits outside the arrivals hall, or a taxi.
Is there a car park?
We have a few spaces that are reserved exclusively for groups of pilgrims. Groups are given priority when allocating parking spaces. Individuals may enquire about any remaining spaces at the Booking Office. Without authorisation, parking in the reception courtyard is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, Wi-Fi is free and secure throughout the Visitor Centre.