Monasteries in the South of France: These 5 places are worth a visit

"It was quiet, almost unreal. Only the crunch of gravel under our shoes and, somewhere in the distance, the call of a bird. The stone was cool beneath our hands, the walls thick, centuries old. We stood in a cloister of the Abbaye du Thoronet, surrounded by sobriety, light, and a silence that was not empty, but complete."

Anyone who visits a monastery in Southern France isn't simply looking for a destination. They're looking for a place that slows down – in its architecture, its history, its location. Many of these places are hidden in valleys, among lavender fields, in vineyards, or on remote islands. Some are monumental, others almost invisible. But they all have one thing in common: They leave a lasting impression.

In this article we present five monasteries in the South of France that impress not only with their architecture but also with their atmosphere. The whole thing is complemented by personal impressions as experienced by travelers with casapilot.

The Abbaye de Sénanque is located near Gordes, in a secluded valley in Provence. Surrounded by lavender fields, it is one of the most famous monasteries in southern France. Yet it appears so understated. The 12th-century Romanesque Cistercian abbey impresses with its clear, almost austere architecture.

It can only be visited as part of a guided tour: usually in groups, but at a leisurely pace. Inside, visitors are greeted by plain stone, hardly any decoration, but impressive acoustics. Those who arrive early or travel off-season will experience the complex almost to themselves.

Johannes & Waltraud: "You really should take the tour. Only then will you understand why this austere architecture is so impressive. And in the morning, the courtyard was almost deserted."

In a secluded valley between Draguignan and Brignoles lies the Abbaye du Thoronet: simple, monumental, and full of inner tension. The lack of decoration and the geometric clarity create an almost meditative atmosphere. The acoustics are particularly impressive: every sound seems to be given space here.

The tour is available individually, with audio guides explaining the history and construction methods. Those who take their time and linger in silence will experience this place not only architecturally – but also physically.

Lukas, 41: "I was alone in the church once and clapped loudly. The sound hung in the air for so long that I got goosebumps. A magical place, completely beyond words."

About ten kilometers north of Tarascon lies the Abbaye Saint-Michel de Frigolet, nestled in a pine forest in the Montagnette massif. Unlike many simple Cistercian complexes, this monastery is colorful, playful, and surprisingly vibrant, with a gold-decorated basilica and neo-Romanesque elements.

The abbey is still inhabited today and, despite its visitor activity, appears very peaceful. A small monastery shop selling homemade products rounds out the visit. Many come just for a short stroll and stay longer than planned.

Sophia, 52: "I was surprised by how colorful and inviting it all was. The scent of the pine trees, the tranquility, and then this festive interior. It had almost a fairytale feel."

Hidden in the hinterland of the Ardèche, between forests and vineyards, lies the Chartreuse de Valbonne. The former charterhouse was founded in the 13th century and later expanded several times – today it is a place of tranquility, with a sprawling complex that seems almost forgotten.

The tour leads through courtyards, cloisters, and the monks' large dormitory. Not a perfect shine, but rather patina, broken edges, and lush plants. This is precisely what makes it so appealing. Those who undertake the short climb to the complex will be rewarded with a true retreat.

Henrik, 49: "It was like entering another era. Not perfectly restored, but that's precisely what made it so touching. Simply a place that has remained true to itself."

Just 20 minutes by ferry from Cannes lies the Île Saint-Honorat – small, quiet, almost meditative. Here is the Lérins Abbey, a place of monastic life since the 5th century. Even today, it's inhabited by monks who produce wine, liqueur, and olive oil and welcome visitors.

The island can be circumnavigated on foot, past eucalyptus trees, small chapels, and secluded coves. The monastery itself can be visited, as can the imposing tower right on the water. It's not a typical excursion, but rather a short break in the middle of the Mediterranean.

Miriam, 44: "We had almost forgotten Cannes when we got back on the boat. It was like a day on vacation. Quiet, fragrant, warm, and simply special."

Anyone who visits a monastery in the South of France is looking for more than just architecture. They're looking for moments of silence, spaces that feel different, and stories that don't need to be told aloud.

Whether on an island, deep in the forest, or among lavender fields: each of these monasteries has its own character. Some impress with their acoustics or austerity, others with their colors, vastness, or solitude. But they all have one thing in common: they invite you to pause and reflect.

Whoever gets involved in these places takes something with them. Sometimes just a feeling, sometimes a lasting thought. And that's precisely where their value lies. For anyone who wants to not just travel to the South of France, but experience it, these monasteries are quiet but impressive companions.