Glenstal Abbey (St. Joseph and St. Columba)
LimerickIreland
Glenstal Abbey (St. Joseph and St. Columba) is located just outside the village of Murroe, in County Limerick, in the southwest of Ireland. A community of Benedictine monks lives here according to the Rule of Saint Benedict, in a 19th-century castle surrounded by forests, lakes, and farmland. The abbey belongs to the Congregation of the Annunciation, a Benedictine family present on several continents.
The guest house welcomes individual guests who wish to share the rhythm of the monastery for a few days: prayer, meals, work, and silence. It is a safe and confidential place that respects each person's journey, and a guest master watches over you throughout your stay.
What awaits you
Practical information
Meals
All meals are provided at the guest house. Breakfast is self-service, lunch is served in the parlor at the monastery reception, and dinner is most often taken in the refectory with the monks. The God Pods are self-catering, with a kitchenette.
Accommodation
12 rooms with private bathroom (10 single, 2 twin), simply furnished, with bed linen and towels provided. A lounge, small meeting room, dining room, and small kitchen are available for guests. Arrival between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the monastery reception, departure before 10:30 a.m. Free-will offering at the guest house (generally from €90 per night); €65 per night in a God Pod.
Silence
Dinner in the refectory is taken in silence. Wi-Fi is available, but the community encourages guests to limit screen use.
Surroundings
The community invites its guests to remain on the grounds rather than sightseeing. Nearby: the village of Murroe (a few minutes away), Newport (10 min by car), Limerick (18 km, 25-30 min), as well as the Clare Glens and the Slieve Felim Way trail.
Getting there
The gate is open from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Main parking area to the left before the castle arch, with a dedicated parking area for the guest house. Speed limit of 30 km/h on the driveways.
18 km east of Limerick, via the village of Murroe.
The estate's driveways are shared by walkers, runners, cyclists, and cars, so please take care. Rolling landscape at the foot of the Slieve Felim Mountains.