Abbaye Sainte-Marie du Rivet
Auros Gironde Founded in 1938
Abbaye Sainte-Marie du Rivet, in Auros in the Gironde department, is a thousand-year-old Cistercian monastery whose foundations date back to the time of Charlemagne, inhabited since 1938 by nuns who came from Blagnac. The small and fraternal community belongs to the Cistercian Order and follows the Rule of Saint Benedict. Daily life revolves around the liturgy and chanted offices, lectio divina, manual work (dry biscuits, santons, candles, painted scarves, organic garden), and community life.
Bordered by the Rivet stream and surrounded by the vineyards of southern Gironde, near the Graves and Sauternais wine regions, the abbey offers a peaceful setting far from the noise of the world. In its guest house, the community welcomes all those who wish to pause, find renewal, encounter monastic life, and experience contemplation, for a silent and restful spiritual retreat.
What awaits you
Practical information
Meals
Meals are served on site. Guests may choose between a convivial dining room where conversation is welcome, and a silent dining room. Pets are not accepted.
Accommodation
Two separate guest areas: Tibhirine (14 rooms, 20 beds) and Les Kellia (16 rooms, 20 beds). Single, twin, and double rooms are available. Bed linens are not included in the full board rate.
Liturgy
Guests are invited to join the community for the sung offices. Participation is optional. An oratory is also available to retreatants for personal prayer.
Library & spaces
A reading lounge, a library, a private garden, and several group rooms are available to retreatants. The setting is quiet and conducive to recollection.
Getting there
Langon SNCF train station, taxi available
Highway exit at Langon (12 km away)
Through the vineyards for the adventurous!