Where to make a retreat in Normandy?

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Normandy: cider, beaches, but also abbeys and monasteries!

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We have put together a small directory of places that are perfect if you're planning to make a spiritual retreat in Normandy soon!

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‍If you were mainly planning to tour the Normandy beaches and sample scallops or cider along the coast, you could stop at one of these magnificent places for a spiritual pause during your trip.

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First, if you weren't planning to make a retreat soon, let yourself be convinced by reading about all the benefits of a spiritual retreat!

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Now that we've convinced you, know that in addition to a spiritual pause, you'll be able to discover magnificent landscapes far from the city hustle, enjoy local dishes, and come listen to the history of this region that has more than one story to tell you!

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So here is a non-exhaustive overview of sublime places ready to welcome you for a Norman retreat:

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Saint-Martin de Mondaye Abbey, 14250 Juaye-Mondaye

• Saint-Martin de Mondaye Abbey, located in Normandy, is a place of spirituality and heritage steeped in history. Founded in the 13th century, the abbey is home to a community of Cistercian monks. Its Gothic architecture, chapel, and cloister make it a medieval jewel. You can discover monastic life through the liturgical offices, Gregorian chants, and moments of prayer. The gardens and surrounding landscapes invite contemplation and serenity. Saint-Martin de Mondaye Abbey is a place where history, spirituality, and beauty meet, offering visitors an enriching and peaceful experience.

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Notre-Dame de Protection Abbey, Valognes, 50700 Valognes

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• Notre-Dame de Protection Abbey in Valognes is a Benedictine monastery. Founded in the 17th century, the abbey is home to a community of monks who live according to the Rule of Saint Benedict. The abbey's architecture is remarkable, with its Baroque church and cloister. You can attend the liturgical offices and discover monastic life. The abbey also offers spiritual retreats for those seeking a time of recollection and meditation. The gardens and outdoor spaces provide a peaceful setting for contemplation. Notre-Dame de Protection Abbey is a place of spirituality and beauty, where visitors can find serenity and renewal at the heart of the region.

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Notre-Dame-de-Fidélité Convent, 14440 Douvres-la-Délivrande

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• Notre-Dame de Fidélité Convent is a place of spirituality and community life. Founded barely a century ago, the convent is home to a community of Benedictine nuns (following the Rule of Saint Benedict). The sisters dedicate their lives to prayer, contemplation, and service to others. The convent's architecture is simple, reflecting the simplicity of their way of life. Visitors are welcomed to share moments of prayer and spiritual exchanges with the sisters. You can obviously stay more than one day to make a retreat with the sisters. The peaceful gardens and meditation spaces allow for tranquility and connection with God. Notre-Dame de Fidélité Convent is a place where spirituality, commitment, and fraternity come together, offering visitors a haven of peace and a source of inspiration in the Benedictine tradition.
  

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Le Havre Carmel, 76620 Le Havre

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• Le Havre Carmel is a contemplative monastery. Since the 19th century, it has been home to a community of Carmelite sisters dedicated to prayer and the contemplative life. The monastery offers a refuge of silence and recollection, allowing the sisters to devote themselves to seeking God. You can attend the liturgical offices and discover Carmelite spirituality. The monastery's gardens offer a peaceful space for meditation and contemplation. Le Havre Carmel is a place of fruitful solitude, where the sisters live in deep communion with God and intercede for the world. If you're looking for a place conducive to the search for interiority and the quest for meaning in an atmosphere of prayer and silence, this place is for you!

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