Abbaye de Bricquebec
Bricquebec-en-Cotentin Manche Founded in 1824
Ten brothers and a nave of light in the heart of the Cotentin
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Grâce de Bricquebec, in the heart of the Cotentin, is home to a community of around ten Cistercian Trappist monks, in a place founded in 1824 by Abbot Onfroy. It is one of the rare 19th-century Trappist abbeys, remarkable for its neoclassical architecture, refined and elegant. The abbey church, bathed in light, houses an organ signed by Cavaillé-Coll, one of the greatest organ builders. The monks live by their work: long known for the Trappe de Bricquebec, they now devote themselves to charcuterie under the name "Le Cochon du Père Marc."
Nestled in the verdant bocage of the Cotentin, near the medieval castle of Bricquebec and the town of Valognes, the abbey welcomes those seeking calm and recollection for a restorative retreat, while also inviting them to taste the community's famous pâté.
What awaits you
Practical information
Welcome
All adults are welcome: solo retreats, family retreats, group retreats, or study stays for exam preparation. Capacity is limited to 14 retreatants for on-site accommodation and 19 covers in the refectory. A reception room (maximum 19 people) is also available.
Liturgy
The abbey church, equipped with a Cavaillé-Coll organ, hosts daily Mass and the offices throughout the day. Retreatants are free to participate at their own pace.
Nearby
The medieval castle of Bricquebec (12th century), the town of Valognes (15 min), the seaside resort of Barneville-Carteret (20 min), Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue and the island of Tatihou (35 min), the Cap de La Hague (40 min).
Getting there
3 hours by regional train from Gare Saint-Lazare, followed by a bus or taxi (13 km).
Allow 4 hours from Paris via the A13, 2h30 from Rouen and 1h15 from Caen via the N13. And 2h30 from Rennes.
The flat expanses of the Cotentin peninsula are a dream playground for cyclists!