La Salette:
Apparitions of Our Lady
La Salette : Apparitions of Our Lady
Experience the sacred site of La Salette, where the Virgin Mary appeared to the shepherd children. This guided tour explores the basilica, chapels, and pilgrimage paths, offering a moving blend of faith, history, and spiritual inspiration for visitors and pilgrims alike.
Tour Highlights
Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette, built near the site where the Virgin Mary appeared to the shepherd children in 1846.
Experience the Chapels of the Apparition, where pilgrims reflect on the message of reconciliation and prayer.
Learn about the Marian apparition of La Salette, a spiritual event that continues to inspire devotion worldwide.
Walk the peaceful pilgrimage paths and surrounding trails, connecting with the natural beauty and sacred atmosphere of the mountains.
Stroll through the nearby village of La Salette, rich in history, faith, and timeless Christian tradition.
Pause at viewpoints overlooking the Alps, offering serene landscapes for contemplation and prayer.
Discover the local shrines and devotional sites, tied to miraculous events and centuries of veneration.
Conclude your visit with a moment of prayer and reflection inside the basilica, ending your journey in peace, gratitude, and spiritual renewal.
More Information
Duration : 2 Hours
Language : 
English | 
French | 
Spanish | 
German | 
Italian | 
Portuguese | 
Polish
Tour Inclusions: Experienced tour guide, Entrance to the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette, Small group experience
Tour Exclusions: Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from La Salette, optional donations, Other entrance fees
Distance: Approximately 1.5 km
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting Point: Please arrive 10 minutes early at the main entrance of the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette (La Salette-Fallavaux, 38520, France). Your guide will meet you at the left-hand door facing the basilica, near the bell tower. Refer to the Google map for precise directions.
La Salette: Apparitions of Our Lady
Step into the sacred heart of La Salette on this immersive walking tour, where faith, history, and Marian devotion converge. Your journey begins at the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette, the magnificent sanctuary built near the site of the Virgin Mary’s apparition to the shepherd children in 1846. Here, you’ll learn about the miraculous event, the message of reconciliation, and the enduring legacy that continues to inspire pilgrims from around the world.
Next, visit the Chapels of the Apparition, where pilgrims reflect on the Virgin Mary’s message and the spiritual significance of her appearance. Discover how this extraordinary event continues to inspire devotion and spiritual renewal for all who come seeking guidance, prayer, and inspiration.
Continue your exploration along the peaceful pilgrimage paths surrounding the sanctuary, walking in the footsteps of generations of faithful pilgrims. Gain insight into the rich traditions, prayer practices, and enduring spiritual heritage of La Salette.
Stroll through the nearby village, where every street and corner reflects centuries of devotion and local history. Pause at viewpoints overlooking the Alps, offering breathtaking scenery and a serene space for reflection on the spiritual and natural beauty of the region.
Along the way, discover local shrines and devotional sites, tied to miraculous events and centuries of veneration. Hear the stories of lives touched by faith and the enduring power of Marian devotion in this sacred mountain village.
Your tour concludes back at the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette, providing a quiet moment for prayer, contemplation, and gratitude. Leave with a deeper understanding of La Salette’s spiritual significance, the Marian apparitions, and the timeless message of faith, reconciliation, and hope that continues to draw pilgrims from around the world.
La Salette: Apparitions of Our Lady
Perched in the scenic mountains of the Ardèche region in southeastern France, La Salette is a sacred pilgrimage village renowned for its Marian apparitions and serene natural beauty. Pilgrims and travelers are drawn not only by the breathtaking landscapes but also by the profound spiritual significance of the site. Among the most important places to visit are the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette, built near the site of the apparition to the shepherd children in 1846; the Chapels of the Apparition, where visitors can reflect on the Virgin Mary’s message; and the surrounding pilgrimage paths, offering panoramic views of the Alps and quiet spaces for prayer and contemplation. The village and its sanctuary continue to inspire faith, devotion, and reflection for pilgrims from around the world.
The Marian Apparition of La Salette (1846)
The most renowned event in La Salette’s history is the Marian apparition of Our Lady of La Salette. In 1846, the Virgin Mary appeared to two young shepherd children, Maximin Giraud and Mélanie Calvat, delivering a message calling for prayer, reconciliation, and penance. News of the apparition quickly spread across France and beyond, drawing pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal. The basilica now houses a shrine and chapels dedicated to the apparition, providing a sacred space for reflection and devotion. Annual pilgrimages commemorate this event, drawing thousands of faithful to experience the serene mountain sanctuary and the enduring message of the Virgin Mary.
Saint Francis Regis and Local Devotion
While La Salette is primarily associated with the Marian apparition, the region is steeped in Catholic tradition and pilgrimage culture, shaped by centuries of local devotion and missionary activity. Pilgrims visiting La Salette encounter a living spiritual heritage, from the basilica and chapels to nearby shrines and devotional landmarks, all fostering prayer, reflection, and connection to the divine.
Pilgrimage and Spiritual Tradition
La Salette is part of France’s rich network of pilgrimage sites, attracting travelers seeking both spiritual enrichment and natural beauty. Pilgrims come to walk the sanctuary paths, meditate at the chapels, and experience the sacred message of Our Lady of La Salette. The village provides a peaceful place for rest, prayer, and renewal before continuing journeys through the Ardèche mountains. Today, modern pilgrims retracing spiritual routes through southeastern France find in La Salette a living testament to faith, devotion, and the transformative power of prayer.
Whether visiting for reflection, devotion, or cultural interest, La Salette offers a timeless journey of faith and inspiration, where the message of reconciliation and hope continues to resonate with all who come.
- Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
- Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
- Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
- Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
- Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
- Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
- Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
- Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
- Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.
- Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
- Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
- Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
- No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
- Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
- Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
- Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
- Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.
Plan Your Visit to La Salette
Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and enjoy La Salette, a sacred pilgrimage site in the Ardèche mountains of southeastern France, renowned for the Marian apparition of 1846. Travel times are approximate and may vary depending on schedules and traffic.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Airport Meet & Assist Services
For a smooth travel experience, take advantage of Meet & Assist services available at major airports such as Lyon Saint-Exupéry (LYS), Marseille Provence (MRS), and Geneva International (GVA). A dedicated assistant will greet you, assist with luggage, check-in, and security, ensuring a stress-free start or end to your journey.
Note: This service is available only within the airport and is ideal for first-time visitors or travelers seeking a comfortable experience.
By Air
Lyon Saint-Exupéry (LYS) – ~120 km
Marseille Provence (MRS) – ~190 km
Geneva International (GVA) – ~220 km
Approx. 2–3 hours by car or taxi. From the airport, rent a car or take a combination of train and taxi to reach La Salette.
Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia
By Train
Nearest Major Stations:
Valence TGV (~1.5–2 hours from Paris)
Saint-Étienne Châteaucreux (~1–1.5 hours)
From either station, continue by regional train, bus, or taxi to La Salette (~1–1.5 hours).
Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio
By Car
Driving offers flexibility and scenic views through the Ardèche mountains.
From Lyon: ~120 km (~2–2.5 hours)
From Valence: ~90 km (~1.5 hours)
From Saint-Étienne: ~75 km (~1.5 hours)
Free and paid parking is available near the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette.
Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto
By Bus
Regional buses connect La Salette with Annonay, Saint-Étienne, and nearby towns. Schedules may vary; always check before traveling.
Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio
By Taxi / Private Transfer
Enjoy a direct and comfortable trip from airports or nearby stations. Ideal for small groups or travelers with luggage.
Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups
On Foot / Locally
La Salette is a walkable pilgrimage village. The Basilica, chapels, viewpoints, and devotional sites are all easily accessible on foot, making it ideal for reflection and prayer.
Where to Stay in La Salette
Choose from guesthouses, boutique hotels, or family-run B&Bs within walking distance of the basilica and village center. Many accommodations cater specifically to pilgrims and spiritual retreats.
Hotels & B&Bs| 
Unique Local Stays
Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda
Find the Best Local Stays – Book your unique local stays with Homestay 
Experiences & Activities
Enhance your visit with cultural and spiritual experiences in and around La Salette:
Guided tours of the basilica and chapels
Walks along scenic pilgrimage paths
Visits to nearby Ardèche villages and historical sites
Book Tours & Activities
Find the Best Tours & Activities
Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator
Travel Essentials
Prepare for your visit with the right equipment and services.
Find the Best Travel Essentials
Find your travel accessories on Amazon
Find your Travel Insurance on Safty Wings
Find your local luggage storage on LuggageHero
Religious & Devotional Items
If you cannot visit La Salette in person, you can still connect with its sacred tradition. Explore authentic Catholic devotional items inspired by Our Lady of La Salette and French pilgrimage heritage.
Find the Best Religious & Devotional Items
Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon
Note:
All travel times, prices, and services are approximate and may vary depending on schedules, seasons, or provider updates. Always check current travel information before booking.
Travel Tip
Combine train + local taxi or rental car for the smoothest arrival—balancing comfort, flexibility, and scenic travel through the Ardèche mountains.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.
To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.
Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups
If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.
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- List also other tours near the tour location ( Orvieto, Rome…etc )
Work With Us as a Tour Guide in La Salette
We’re looking for licensed tour guides to collaborate with us in sharing the faith, history, and spiritual beauty of La Salette, one of France’s most important Marian pilgrimage sites.
If you guide visitors through the Basilica of Our Lady of La Salette, the Chapels of the Apparition, or along the sacred pilgrimage paths, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us.Partner with Us
We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.