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Abbaye de Lérins: A Monastic Island Retreat

Discover a serene island escape just off the coast of Cannes, where monks have cultivated wine and spirituality for centuries.

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Escape to Île Saint-Honorat, a serene island off the coast of Cannes, and discover the Abbaye de Lérins, a working monastery with a rich history dating back to the 5th century. Explore the island's tranquil paths, vineyards, chapels, and historic buildings, and experience a unique blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Abbaye de Lérins

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the island's terrain is uneven in places.
  • Bring your own water and snacks, although there is a restaurant and a shop on the island.
  • Check the ferry schedule in advance, as departures are less frequent during the week.
  • Consider purchasing wine or liqueur produced by the monks as a unique souvenir.
  • Respect the silence and tranquility of the island, especially when visiting the chapels and monastery.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The only way to reach Île Saint-Honorat is by ferry from Cannes. Ferries depart from Quai Max Laubeuf, located at the end of the Laubeuf car park on the Vieux Port. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Planaria ticket office on Quai Laubeuf. A round-trip ticket costs €20.50 when purchased online, or €22 if purchased in person. During peak season (July and August), ferries depart from Cannes every hour from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Return ferries from Île Saint-Honorat depart every hour, 30 minutes after the departure time from Cannes. On Sundays and public holidays, the first ferry departs Cannes at 8:00 AM; during the week, the first ferry departs at 9:00 AM. Be aware that the Laubeuf car park is currently under construction, with the closest parking available at Parking Pantiero.

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Discover more about Abbaye de Lérins

The Abbaye de Lérins, located on the idyllic Île Saint-Honorat, offers a unique escape from the bustling French Riviera. This historic island, a short ferry ride from Cannes, has been home to a monastic community since the 5th century. Founded by Saint Honorat, the abbey has been a significant center of Christian spirituality for over sixteen centuries. Today, the island is a peaceful haven where visitors can explore the abbey's grounds, wander through vineyards, and discover ancient chapels. The monks of Lérins Abbey cultivate the island's eight-hectare vineyard, producing renowned wines and liqueurs using traditional methods. Wine tastings are available, offering a chance to sample the fruits of their labor. The island's landscape is dotted with historical monuments, including a fortified monastery dating back to the 11th century and seven chapels scattered along the coastline. Visitors can explore the Chapelle de la Trinité, located on the eastern tip of the island, and the ruins of other ancient structures. The island also features cannonball furnaces built by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1794, testaments to the island's strategic importance. Île Saint-Honorat provides a tranquil environment with no cars or loud noises, inviting contemplation and connection with nature. Visitors can walk the entire island in about an hour and a half, discovering hidden coves, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking views of the Bay of Cannes. For a unique experience, consider a retreat at the abbey's guesthouse, where you can share in the monks' daily life of prayer, work, and study.

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