Bonneval Abbey
Le Cayrol Aveyron Founded in 1147
Prayer, work, and communion with nature in Aveyron
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Bonneval, in Aveyron, is a monastery of Trappistine nuns of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, nestled in the heart of a verdant valley on the foothills of the Aubrac. Founded in 1147 by Cistercian monks from Mazan Abbey, it reclaimed its religious vocation in 1875 with the arrival of the nuns, who follow the Rule of Saint Benedict: prayer, silence, and manual work. The community today numbers around twenty-five sisters, who support themselves through the artisanal production of chocolate, a hallmark activity of the monastery since 1878.
The abbey remains a place of recollection and serenity, faithful to the Cistercian ideal, which seeks a balance between spiritual life, work, and communion with nature. Its monastic guest house warmly welcomes those who wish to withdraw for a few days, in an isolated setting conducive to solitude and reflection.
What awaits you
Practical information
Welcome
Everyone, men and women alike, is welcome at the guest house. Youth groups may stay at the Ermitage Saint Joseph, 1.5 km from the monastery. Pilgrims on the Way of Saint James are welcomed at the Tour Saint-Jacques during the summer.
Liturgy
Guests may attend the liturgical offices with the Cistercian community and pray freely in the chapel.
Library
A library is available to guests to accompany their retreat time.
Hiking
Many walks are possible in the surrounding area: the Ermitage Saint Joseph, the beech and oak forest, and the climb toward the Vierge de Bonneval with views over the Aubrac and the abbey.
Getting there
Then bus to Espalion or taxi
The abbey is located in the commune of Le Cayrol, near Espalion
It is preferable to start from Le Cayrol (it's downhill).