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The Mother of God depicted and venerated here is the Virgin Mary of Lourdes. This well-known Marian pilgrimage site is located in the French Pyrenees and is visited annually by large numbers of people, including many sick people hoping for healing. The devotional image of the Mother of God has become widespread – not only in France – with believers building Lourdes chapels and grottos everywhere. The church feast day of "Our Lady of Lourdes" is February 11th, the anniversary of the Marian apparition (1858), when the Mother of God appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous in a rock grotto very close to Lourdes. Bernadette later became a nun and died at the age of just 35. On December 8th (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary), 1933, she was canonized by Pope Pius XI. The commemoration of the Madonna of Lourdes is also World Day of the Sick.

Sau Dam Tip for Bikepackers When riding near the Pantà de Sau (Sau Reservoir), don’t miss stopping at the Sau Dam viewpoint. It’s a spectacular spot to catch your breath and take in the sweeping views of the turquoise reservoir framed by steep cliffs and lush forests. 🌊 If water levels are low, you might even spot the famous submerged bell tower of the old village of Sant Romà de Sau poking out of the water — a haunting and iconic sight that adds a unique story to your ride. 🛑 Keep in mind the area around the dam can be a bit steep and technical on gravel roads, so take it easy if you’re loaded up. 💡 Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon light here is magical for photos and gives you cooler temperatures for climbing or descending.

Pedraforca, although it is almost on the horizon, I did not expect to see it. It was a surprise. Seeing this magical peak connects me with old and beautiful memories of my youth.

In this year 2024, the Sau reservoir has suffered one of the greatest droughts since there are records, in 1963 was the year it was inaugurated to leave Sant Romà de Sau under its waters, This Sau swamp in the Ter River... It would serve to supply water 💧 for many regions, since in those times we already had periods of lack of water to supply the basic needs of the population.

Shaded with good views of the Ter River

It is a small town that is in a privileged environment. It is a haven of peace.

This is the road that leaves Sant Pere de Torelló and ascends the southern slope to Coll de Bracons. It is a winding road, which generally gains altitude, although with continuous breaks. Ideal on hot days as it has many shadows.

The town of Tavertet is a jewel of the Catalan pre-Pyrenees. A perfectly preserved town, with all its stone houses (or casiplones) perfectly maintained and decorated. From Tavertet, it is well worth visiting the ravines (cingles, in Catalan) of the Sau reservoir. Tavertet has several bars and restaurants where you can have a snack and enjoy the tranquility of a car-free town. No one is disappointed!