Monastery of the Annunciade of Saint-Doulchard
Saint-Doulchard Cher Founded in 1988
On the heights of Bourges, fraternal peace
The Monastery of the Annunciade of Saint-Doulchard, in the Cher department, in the Centre-Val de Loire region, is run by the nuns of the Order of the Annunciade, faithful to the charism of Saint Jeanne de France, who founded the Order in Bourges in 1502. Founded in 1988, the community today numbers six nuns of all ages. Their days are shaped by prayer and work, with six daily offices, times of contemplative prayer and prayerful reading of the Word, as well as craft activities (jams, fruit jellies, and a shop).
Located at the gates of Bourges, about 3 km from the city, the monastery enjoys a rural setting conducive to silence and contemplation, with a view of the cathedral in the distance. Two hours from Paris, it has a guest house that welcomes groups and individuals for times of reflection, prayer, or renewal.
What awaits you
Practical information
Meals
All three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are served in the guest dining room. The atmosphere is warm and family-like. A group may choose to eat in silence. Help with the dishes is appreciated.
Accommodation
The guest house has around twenty single and double rooms, each with a sink. Showers and toilets are shared in the hallway. A meeting room is available on the ground floor, with a library and a study room on the upper floors.
Daily rhythm
Retreatants organize their stay at their own pace and are invited to participate freely in the community's six daily offices. No attendance is required.
Manual work
In July, August, and September, guests may take part in practical activities: gardening, making jams, and light tasks. A five-day retreat also allows young women to share in the sisters' daily life, including work and liturgical life. The community also welcomes scouts.
Youth welcome
Specific retreats are offered to young women aged 18 to 35, individually or in small groups, throughout the year. Iconography or zither sessions are also organized at the guest house.
Location
The monastery is located in Saint-Doulchard, 3 km from Bourges and two hours from Paris. It offers a peaceful, rural setting with a view of Bourges Cathedral. Local public transportation is free.
Getting there
Bourges train station is only 3 km from the monastery, then take bus line 11 to the Vouzeron stop or a taxi
2 hours from Paris, via the A71
Coming by bike is a great opportunity to discover the Cher