Besides being a popular vacation spot, the region is probably best known for the lengthy series of Marian apparitions which are said to have occurred there between 1664 and 1718, reported by shepherdess Benoîte Rencurel.

[3] The church that was established around these Marian apparitions, the Basilica of Notre Dame du Laus, has been described as "one of the most hidden and yet powerful treasures in the history of Europe".

[4] On votive offerings and some older stones, the indication is Latin "Sancta Maria Lacensis", which means "St. Mary of the Lake".

[6] Under the auspices of Bishop Rene Combal, six experts (a theologian, a historian, a biblical scholar, a psychoanalyst, a psychologist, and a magistrate) have studied for several years the historical, and scientific and medical facts, from manuscripts written contemporaneously with Benoîte Rencurel's life.

[8] Many healings (and alleviation of symptoms) have been reported by people who apply oil from the lamp to the afflicted area, with faith and in prayer to the intercession of Our Lady of Laus.

It was said of Benoîte Rencurel that she always smelled these perfumes when she saw the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the scents, which impregnated everything, persisted even after the apparition of Our Lady ended.