sandralist

I don't know if Lourdes offers comfy accommodations at a good price that make it a logical overnight for your itinerary, but I found Lourdes to be an absolute horror show driving through it en route to another destination in the Pyrenees. People have different reactions -- I guess -- to seeing a seemingly endless parade of desperate people, some visibly terminally ill or with severely ill or disabled children, being led to believe in miracles (in a highly commercialized way), but I found it heartbreaking and even disgusting.

Others want to see all what goes on in Lourdes and you might choose to do so. But if you were thinking it just makes sense to stop there and get a rest and a meal, you might be as shocked and depressed as I was to see what is going on.

Cavangal

StCirq: Many thanks for all the help you have offered as I try to sort my route. I have been to Bordeaux several trips and walked in city, including the markets on riverbank and liked it very much. I will skip Bergerac as would not want to waste overnight and half day traveling there if I can get to Sarlat sooner to enjoy more. Will try to work with local tourist offices and do as much walking on trails and in towns near to Sarlat and look for day tours.

When I get to Toulouse after Lourdes might have extra day or two to enjoy local day trips from Toulouse. Have taken TGVs there many times but never got to see the city areas.
Thanks again.

Cavangal

Sandralist: I am making progress sorting my route. I have been to many areas in France but know little about Dordogne Valley. This will be a new adventure for several days.

I have been to Lourdes many times over the years and its not a place one goes to just to get a good sleep but its truly a very peaceful and prayerful place that gives one a chance to thank God for the blessings of good health and family. There are many very good hotels there, some new ones and plenty of excellent restaurants so your views seem far from the real scene. I know there are hotels away from Sanctuary near the Gare not as popular, but still its a safe location and one can get budget overnights if that's all one can afford. I have walked by some of them to stop for café and never saw any reason to feel concern. I know what's it like trying to drive with all the congestion, but that's typical of areas packed with people, most on foot.
In fact, I always look forward to my stop in Lourdes and if I switch hotel, I stop into other hotels where I am welcomed to enjoy a glass of wine.

StCirq

Be sure to give yourself a day or two to explore Toulouse, which is really a wonderful city that many people overlook. It took me a few visits to appreciate its offerings.

The tourist office in Sarlat is excellent and will help you find plenty of things to do in the area.