Carmel du Havre
Le Havre Seine-Maritime Founded in 1894
In the heart of Le Havre, in Normandy, the Carmel has been home since 1894 to a community of Carmelite nuns of the Discalced Order of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, a branch reformed in the 16th century by Saint Teresa of Ávila. Settled on rue Félix-Faure since 1953, the sixteen sisters, ranging in age from 30 to 90 and coming from diverse backgrounds, live by contemplative prayer, fraternal life, manual work, silence, and solitude, following the rhythm of the liturgical year.
Set back from the streets, ten minutes on foot from the seafront and thirty minutes from the train station, the monastery forms a true island of silence and calm. Its contemporary architecture echoes that of the rebuilt city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. Nearby, sweeping views take in the city, the port, and the sea. To discover this way of life, the best thing is to come and meet the sisters in person.
What awaits you
Upcoming retreats
Practical information
Places for prayer
The chapel, the Saint Elijah oratory, and the Garden of Silence are available to retreatants. Prayer paths are offered there to enter into a contemplative experience.
Library
A library is accessible on the 2nd floor, with books on the saints of Carmel and on prayer.
Rooms
The rooms (2nd and 3rd floors) include a single bed (which can be converted to a double) and a private bathroom with shower and toilet. Sheets and towels are provided.
Meals
Meals are served on site, in the dedicated space on the ground floor of the reception area.
Surroundings
The seaside is a 10-minute walk away. The Jardins suspendus, the MuMA, and the église Saint-Joseph (Auguste Perret) are accessible on foot. Étretat and Honfleur are 30 minutes away by car.
Getting there
Le Havre train station, then the monastery is accessible on foot (30 min), by bus (30 min), or by taxi (20 min)
Head north via the A13, A84, or A28; or come down from the north via the A29!
Be prepared for a climb on arrival!