Aiguebelle Abbey
Laval Mayenne Founded in 1816
La Coudre Abbey, in Laval, in the Mayenne department, is a monastery of around forty nuns belonging to the Trappist branch of the Cistercians. Established in 1859, it was built in the open countryside, which has since gradually been absorbed by the surrounding urban area. The sisters live according to the Rule of Saint Benedict, in the tradition of the Cistercian Fathers and the Trappist reform initiated by the Abbot of Rancé in the 17th century. Their life weaves together prayer, praise, meditation on Scripture, and liturgical chant, in a balance of prayer and work, animated by a single desire: "To prefer nothing to the love of Christ."
A place of silence, prayer, and peace at the edge of the city, the abbey welcomes guests in a renovated, quiet, and comfortable guest house. Visitors come to share times of prayer with the community, to talk, to breathe, and to discover Cistercian spirituality, during a pause and a time of renewal.
What awaits you
Practical information
Meals
Meals are taken in silence at the guest house. At noon, the reading listened to by the sisters is broadcast to retreatants. Meals are not shared with the community.
Length of stay
Stays last between 2 and 8 days.
Spiritual guidance
Upon request, you may meet with the guest mistress for a personal conversation, or with the chaplain for a time of spiritual guidance.
Library & oratory
The guest house has an oratory, a garden, and a library available to retreatants.
Walks
You can walk as far as the Bois de l'Huisserie or follow the Mayenne along the towpath.
Liturgy
Retreatants are invited to join the community for the Liturgy of the Hours, as much as they wish.
Getting there
Laval train station, a 20-minute walk in the heart of the city
A81 from Rennes and Le Mans
Allow 10 minutes by bike from the train station to the convent, with breathtaking churches along the way!