Chantelle Abbey
In an exceptional natural setting in the heart of Allier, the Benedictine nuns of Chantelle open the doors of Saint-Vincent Abbey for a time of spiritual retreat.
Within its walls, the Benedictine nuns pray, work, and welcome you to experience a time of rest and renewal. Monastic tradition is structured by the divine offices, times of silence, and exchanges, which you may freely attend.
Retreats organized by the community
The long history of Saint-Vincent Abbey in Chantelle
The community's adventure began in October 1853, when the Benedictine nuns of Pradines Abbey fell under the spell of a former priory and settled there. There, on this rocky spur overlooking the Bouble gorges, stands a beautiful Romanesque church and a collection of buildings, remnants of the Dukes of Bourbon's castle embellished by Anne of France in the 16th century. Of this former castle, razed in 1635 by Louis XIII and Richelieu, only part of the ramparts bordering the garden and two towers remain, giving the whole a medieval character. Stone by stone, the Benedictines devoted themselves to restoring the place and bringing it back to life.
Originally, from 937 onwards, a sanctuary dedicated to Saint Vincent (patron saint of winegrowers!) was built there, and a priory was entrusted to regular canons. Later, at the end of the 11th century, they constructed a Romanesque church, remarkable for the purity of its lines and the balance of its volumes.
Subject to the vicissitudes of history, the priory was put up for sale during the Revolution. Centuries after the priory's foundation, the sisters perpetuate the vocation of the place's first inhabitants by living according to the Rule and spirit of Saint Benedict, between work and prayer.
Between communal life, chosen solitude, and fraternity: the life of the Benedictine nuns of Chantelle
The monastic day unfolds according to the rhythm of the Hours, that is, fixed times of prayer sung at the church in community. Following the Rule of Saint Benedict, the Sisters take charge of their lives and devote a significant portion of their time to work.
Shampoo, moisturizing lotion, eau de Cologne: the products of Chantelle Abbey
With laypeople and after morning Mass, the sisters head to the workshops for making natural cosmetic products!
Sixty years ago, the sisters successfully combined a deep knowledge of medicinal plants accumulated over the centuries with scientific modernity. There, they peacefully produce eaux de Cologne, face and body creams, and other renowned toiletry products.
What to expect during your stay
Alone, as a couple, or in a group, experience a time of pause, perspective, silence, prayer, reflection, and discernment, discover the community's life, study for your exams, participate in garden work in the centuries-old calm of the monastery!
What's more, you'll enjoy customized personal guidance (as you'll have understood, the sisters are very attentive!), a simply exceptional natural environment, and direct proximity to the Saint James Way in Bourbonnais (GR 300). You'll also have the opportunity to come for a time of service, either for a single occasion or for a few days, alone or in a small team (with your scout patrol, for example).
Living a spiritual retreat at Chantelle Abbey
You'll benefit from the community's proximity and can share with them the six daily offices (from 5:40 a.m. for the most motivated to 8:00 p.m. in the evening).
Coming alone? Take a place in one of the guest house's 18 rooms. For groups, the monastery has about fifteen rooms and can accommodate up to 25 people. It also has a comfortable refuge for pilgrims and hikers passing through on the Saint James Way!
Would you like to work there in small groups or study for your exams? The abbey's two study rooms are waiting for you! Prefer studying in the sunshine? No problem! The monastery has beautiful flower gardens.
Geography and activities
Attention lovers of old stones, winding roads, and nature as far as the eye can see! The monastery and its surroundings will delight you.
Back to the source with the Bouble Gorges
Located below the monastery and classified as Sensitive Natural Heritage, the four kilometers of the Bouble Gorges contain true scenic, ecological, and cultural richness.
Follow the marked trails and explore wild nature full of centuries-old trees to the sounds of water and birds. You can extend your walk to the Giverzat forest.
Vichy, a refreshing and elegant city
Located 30 km from the monastery, the city of Vichy is the queen of spa towns. Discover its thermal district and its centuries-old springs, fill your water bottles at the Celestins thermal baths, then stroll among countless English-style houses and even baroque-style ones, not to mention its casino-theater, redecorated in 1900 in art nouveau style.
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