Since the Middle? Ages, millions of pilgrims have left from Le [β¦]. Via Podiensis is one of the four main pilgrimage routes to the Spanish sanctuary of Santiago de Compostela from Le Puy en Velay, a Marian sanctuary since the fifth century. Your hike will bring you finally to the green hills of the Basque Country. To the south of Saint Palais you will notice the Cross of Gibraltar, the supposed meeting point of the different pilgrimage paths of Santiago de Compostela.
An ancient city built on the site of a Gallic oppidum, Aire has had an active history that spans many centuries. Today, a few signs of the past are still evident in the city, of which the most famous is, without argument, the Sainte Quitterie Church, built in the 13th and 14th centuries.
The lower city is home to the Saint Jean Baptiste Cathedral, the ancient rectory now transformed into the town hall , and a beautiful octagonal grain market β Half-board accommodation in a 2-star hotel. You will begin by crossing Le Tursan, a vast, multicolored plateau planted with corn, tobacco, and vineyards.
The vineyards produce Tursan-AOC. Escort by taxi to Latrille. From the small, 16th century church and arcaded pigeon tower, you will head in the direction of Miramont, an old village with a lovely church and tower, and continue to Sensacq. Here, you will visit the small, Romanesque church which houses Carolinian baptismal fonts.
Next on the route is Pimbo, a village perched on a lush hilltop. It is one of the oldest villages of Les Landes, having been founded in Its church dates to the 12th century. In Uzan, you will visit a small, rural church and fountain, both of which were dedicated to Sainte Quitterie. You will trek through the vast valley to the small villages of Pomps. From Pomps you will head to Castillon, and then climb to the chapel of Caubin, the remains of what was once a sign of the prosperity of the Order of the Malts, also a hospital.
