A vibrant bilingual community with rich heritage and modern amenities
Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes
Nestled at the top of the rolling Pembina Hills, Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes is a welcoming community where nature and hospitality come together. Life here is shaped by the land and the seasons, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy Manitoba’s beauty year-round.
Location
The village sits at the crossroads of Highways 244 and 245, just 120 km southwest of Winnipeg, 130 km southeast of Brandon, and only 45 minutes from the U.S. border. Close enough to the surrounding cities for a quick day trip, yet far enough to maintain its own identity and provide all the amenities needed for daily life.
Heritage & Culture
Founded in 1891, the village proudly preserves its French and Swiss origins. European traditions remain central to local life and is reflected in the accents, customs, and warm hospitality of its people. Local landmarks such as the Pioneers and Chanoinesses Museum, the Notre-Dame grotto, and the Sisters of the Saviour Monument celebrate this history. The Village of Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes amalgamated with the Rural Municipality of Lorne in 2015, alongside the Village of Somerset, forming the new entity Municipality of Lorne.
Economy & Services
Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes is a dynamic service centre for the Pembina region. The Bilingual Service Centre on Rogers Street brings together community, municipal, provincial, and federal offices to serve residents in both official languages.
The local economy thrives on a diverse mix of businesses – from retailers in grocery, gas and convenience to restaurants, motel, financial institutions, professional services, hair salon, fitness centres, a wide range of health and wellness providers, and manufacturing enterprises. Together, these businesses create a vibrant local economy that meets the needs of residents while welcoming newcomers and visitors.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the region’s prosperity. Surrounding farms contribute significantly through grain production, hog operations, and dairy farming, reflecting the strength and resilience of rural Manitoba’s agricultural sector. These family-run and commercial enterprises generate employment and provide support to related industries such as transportation, equipment sales, and agri-services. Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes diverse economy ensures balanced growth, resilience, and a strong foundation for the future.
Health & Safety
The community is also recognized as a regional healthcare hub. With a hospital, medical clinic, pharmacy, lab & x-ray, personal care home, and a wide range of specialists, residents enjoy access to quality care in both official languages. Specialists include physiotherapy, chiropractic care, dietetics, public health, foot care, massage therapy, and more. Safety and security are ensured through ambulance services, a dedicated RCMP detachment nearby, and a 20-member volunteer fire brigade, all contributing to the communities’ strong sense of safety and well-being.
Education
Families benefit from excellent educational opportunities, including a daycare with 126 child care spots, a Centre for educational resources for children (CRÉE), an elementary and high school serving students from K through 12 within the Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobaine (DSFM). Adult language education courses are offered locally in the evenings.
Seniors & Community Life
Seniors in Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes enjoy strong support through home care and programs such as Meals on Wheels and the Congregate Meal program. A local seniors’ club offers daily recreational activities and opportunities to stay engaged and foster independence.
Services for seniors are coordinated through Ensemble Chez Soi, the Senior Resource Coordinator, who provides education sessions, Alzheimer’s support groups, equipment rentals, Lifeline services, specialized programming, and Handivan transportation.
Living options for seniors include la Place des Pionniers - 18 retirement residences for those 55+, the Manoir Notre-Dame, and a 60‑bed personal care home — ensuring seniors can remain within the community.
Recreation & Lifestyle
Community spirit thrives through recreation and leisure. A modern arena, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, walking trails, and a public library provide spaces for activity and learning. Camping facilities, a community shelter, and a beautiful park attract visitors and provide spaces for family gatherings. Clubs and programs for hockey, figure skating, volleyball, badminton, soccer, skiing, and snowshoeing bring people together, while arts and wellness classes — from yoga to piano and guitar — enrich the cultural life of the town. The community hall and club allow for year-round spaces where family & friends can gather. Seasonal activities include the famous King Korn Maze, open each fall with family friendly activities, a corn maze, and a golf driving range.
Proud of its past and optimistic about its future, Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes continues to thrive as a place where heritage, hospitality, and community come together. With its bilingual services, strong economy, and welcoming atmosphere, it remains a charming community where neighbours quickly become friends.