Vendée: 4 abbeys to visit near Les Sables-d'Olonne!
Looking for an abbey in the Vendée? You've come to the right place! A land of legends, the Pays de la Loire region is brimming with abbeys that are veritable sentinels of time. Did you know that these buildings played a key role in the development of the Marais Poitevin during the 13th century? This is what the Office du tourisme de Vendée has to say. The monks, particularly the Cistercians, drained the marshes. In so doing, they transformed this formerly maritime area into fertile farmland. These abbeys were religious, economic and cultural centers. Discover some of them, less than an hour from our L'Orée de l'Océan campsite!
Saint-Jean d'Orbestier Abbey
If you're looking for an abbey in the Vendée region, we'd like to start withSaint-Jean d'Orbestier Abbey. Did you know that Richard the Lionheart, a great lover of hunting in the region, supported its enlargement and fortification?
Listed as a historic monument since 1935, this 12th-century building features Romanesque architecture. Its style is reminiscent ofMaillezais Abbey! The CACO² association, guardian of its memory, recounts its tormented history. Fires, religious wars, the French Revolution... It's been through it all! Today, this must-see abbey in the Vendée has a strong cultural vocation. It regularly hosts exhibitions, concerts and other events. Visits are free of charge.
Address: rue de l'Abbaye, 85180 Les Sables-d'Olonne; distance from campsite: 26 km.
Abbaye Notre-Dame des Fontenelles
Listed as a historic monument in 1948, theAbbaye Notre-Dame des Fontenelles takes its name from its numerous small springs of ferruginous water.
It was founded in 1210 by the then Lord of Talmont and his wife, Guillaume de Mauléon and Béatrice de Machecoul. Its architecture is a blend of Romanesque and Gothic. You can stroll around its exterior. Admire the remains of its partially preserved abbey church and vaulted chapter house. The natural setting surrounding this Vendée abbey is perfectly suited to a peaceful visit and a bucolic stroll.
Address: D160, 85000 La Roche-sur-Yon; distance from campsite: 28 km.
Abbaye Royale Notre-Dame de Lieu-Dieu
Looking for the best abbey in the Vendée for a historical immersion? TheAbbaye Royale Notre-Dame de Lieu-Dieu, built in 1197 by Richard the Lionheart, is a nugget!
Nestled in Jard-sur-Mer, it was once home to the monks of the Prémontrés Order. Among the elements that tell the story of this rich history and that can be discovered on site:
- The old church;
- The cloister;
- Sacristy;
- The chapter house;
- The boiler room.
Listed as a Monument Historique in 1927, it has been offering guided tours lasting an average of 30 minutes since 2013. As one visitor put it: " It's a very historic place to visit, you really get to experience the Vendée War era, it's really extraordinary to see! Please note that a free contribution to the upkeep of the site is welcome.
Address: route de l'Abbaye, 85520 Jard-sur-Mer; distance from campsite: 40 km.
Abbaye Notre-Dame de La Grainetière
Which abbey in the Vendée inspired one of the greatest French romances? TheAbbaye Notre-Dame de La Grainetière, according to the official website of the town of Les Herbiers!
This Benedictine abbey, built around 1130, has withstood the ravages of time and the Hundred Years' War. However, it was sacked three times during the Wars of Religion. It was here, in 1735, that Abbé Prévost settled. He wrote Manon Lescaut here!
Listed as a Historic Monument since 1946, the tour lasts one hour. It can be self-guided or led by a monk, for a small extra charge. The Abbey also hosts a number of events, including the Abbey Music Festival in summer. An enriching experience not to be missed if you're vacationing in the region at the same time!
Address: la Grange d'Ardelay, 85500 Les Herbiers; distance from campsite: 75 km.
Book your stay at the 4-star L'Orée de l'Océan campsite, just a stone's throw from Les Sables-d'Olonne and its abbeys! Combine the pleasures of water and spiritual exploration! And don't forget that, in addition to the four abbeys presented, you can extend your monastic adventure (more than an hour from our accommodation) by visiting two jewels of religious art: Maillezais Abbey and Nieul-sur-l'Autise Abbey!