Sarah De Winne Fontfroide Abbey is tucked away in the picturesque region of Occitanie, not far from the coastal city of Narbonne in southern France. This 1,000-year-old Cistercian abbey is cocooned in beautiful natural surroundings in the heart of the Fontfroide Massif at the foot of the Corbières.
A visit to Fontfroide Abbey offers an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This hidden gem captivates visitors with its tranquil setting, inspiring architecture, and timeless beauty. It’s a place where you really wish the ochre and pink stone walls could recount the past.
Top 7 Reasons to Visit Fontfroide Abbey
When planning a visit to Aude in southern France, Fontfroide Abbey should be high on your bucket list of places to visit. This historical gem offers a unique blend of architectural beauty, rich history, and serene natural surroundings. Here are seven compelling reasons why Fontfroide Abbey is a must-visit destination:
1. One of the Largest Cistercian Abbeys in France
As one of the biggest Cistercian abbeys in the country, Fontfroide Abbey offers visitors a chance to explore an extensive and well-preserved monastic complex. Its grandeur and historical importance make it a standout destination for anyone interested in medieval architecture and monastic life.
Visitors can wander through a large number of indoor and outdoor areas, including the:
- Main Courtyard (Cour d’Honneur)
- Lay Brothers’ Refectory (12th century)
- Central Courtyard (Louis XIV Courtyard)
- Lay Brothers’ Passageway
- Cloister
- Abbey Church
- Chapel of the Dead or Chapel of Saint Bernard
- Chapter House
- Lay Brothers’ Dormitory and Great Staircase
- Cellar Storeroom and Romanesque Doorway
- Rose Garden
- Terraced Gardens
Each area offers a unique glimpse into the abbey’s past and the daily lives of the monks who once lived there.
2. Stunning Medieval Architecture
The Fontfroide Abbey complex showcases breathtaking Romanesque and Gothic architecture. This architecture is complemented by stunning stained-glass windows dating from the early 20th century.
Standout features include the extensive vaulted cloisters, the tranquil pillared Chapter House, and the impressive 20-meter-high pointed barrel vault of the Abbey Church. Notably, this is one of the tallest Cistercian churches constructed towards the end of the 12th century.
3. Rich 1,000 Year History
Exploring Fontfroide Abbey also offers visitors the opportunity to discover centuries of fascinating historical events.
Founded in 1093, the abbey has a storied past that includes its growth as a Cistercian monastery, survival through the plague, and its eventual abandonment during the French Revolution.
Fontfroide Abbey is also intertwined with the Cathar history of the Occitanie region. The assassination of Pierre de Castelnau, a monk from Fontfroide who had become the Pope’s legate, was a key event that triggered the Albigensian Crusade against the Cathars.
4. Spiritual and Peaceful Atmosphere
Today, Fontfroide Abbey offers a serene and contemplative environment that allows visitors to experience a sense of peace and spirituality.
Whether you are seeking personal reflection or simply a quiet escape from everyday life, the tranquil atmosphere of the abbey and its surroundings provides the perfect setting for relaxation and inner peace.
5. Memorable Setting and Gardens
Part of the reason for the calm, meditative atmosphere of Fontfroide Abbey is its setting. The abbey is nestled in green hills and surrounded by pretty gardens and picturesque landscapes. The meticulously maintained rose garden, Mediterranean plants, and scenic walking paths all provide a tranquil escape into nature.
The rose garden at the abbey is a vibrant display, featuring 2,500 rosebushes in 16 different colours. To see the rose garden at its best, we recommend that you visit during the peak blooming months of May and September.
The two winding woodland trails that lead through the abbey’s shady terraced gardens also conceal some surprises. Here, you will find the abbey’s herb garden, an enchanting sorcerer’s garden, discretely placed bee hives and an observation post with panoramic views. Also, don’t miss Neptune’s Fountain, another hidden gem tucked away from view!
For those seeking adventure, Fontfroide Abbey offers longer hiking opportunities starting right in the grounds. A 30-minute hike will take you to a picturesque cross perched high on a hill, providing stunning panoramic views over the abbey and the surrounding landscape.
6. Cultural Events in a Unique Setting
Throughout the year, the abbey serves as a stunning backdrop for a diverse array of cultural events, including classical music concerts, art exhibitions and even a medieval banquet. The abbey’s unique and atmospheric setting enhances these events, making them truly memorable.
For plant enthusiasts, Fontfroide Abbey hosts an annual plant festival each spring, celebrating a wide array of botanical wonders. Alternatively, visit in October to experience the orchid festival, an event that perfectly enhances the abbey’s serene atmosphere.
7. Centuries Old Wine Production & Local Produce
Finally, Fontfroide Abbey is part of a prestigious wine estate in the Corbières region, with a winemaking tradition that dates back to the 12th century. Today, visitors can enjoy wine tasting sessions featuring wines produced from the abbey’s extensive vineyards.
In addition, La Table de Fontfroide, the abbey’s restaurant, offers a delightful culinary experience with regional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the charming historic ambiance and lovely terrace views for a memorable meal that will complement your visit to Fontfroide Abbey.
How to Get to Fontfroide Abbey
Fontfroide Abbey is located about 15 km (15 minutes by car) from the centre of Narbonne in the department of Aude in southern France. From Narbonne, take the D6113 in the direction of Lézignan-Corbières and then the D613.
Is Fontfroide Abbey Worth Visiting?
Fontfroide Abbey is worth visiting for anyone seeking a blend of rich history, architectural beauty, and serene natural surroundings. With its interesting past, beautiful gardens, and renowned wine estate, the abbey offers an experience that captivates both history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
So, whether you’re exploring the abbey’s ancient corridors, enjoying a wine tasting, or simply soaking in the tranquil ambiance, Fontfroide Abbey promises a memorable and enriching visit.
Other Nearby Abbeys
If you enjoyed exploring Fontfroide Abbey, you won’t want to miss the nearby Abbaye de Lagrasse. Discover more about the Abbaye Sainte-Marie de Lagrasse in our detailed guide.
