Le Baluchon : café - couchette

This place is a little gem, must be the best in Lourdes with all the arts and gigs going on. Karine and Bruno do their absolute best to make this hostel a lively and vibrant cultural scene. Arriving mid-week, 21st June I found the town full of live music but this place was the best hands down, african drummers, an acoustic duo and a local band playing blues/country. BBQ, draught beer and lovely local people, what's not to love? Location & facilities are great. For those not into the pilgrimage, Lourdes is a brilliant place to set off for Gavarnie/Hautes Pyrenees, 2 euros for the 90 min bus trip, couldn't be any cheaper. The Ordesa Valley is thought to be easier to reach from the Spanish side but this is just as good if not a better starting point for avid hikers/climbers to do a 3 day circular and get some 3000s under their belts. Awesome location, equally good for day trips to the mountains if on a low budget or for anyone doing parts of the ElCamino, GR10 or similar.