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Valloires Abbey: A Cistercian Jewel

Discover Valloires Abbey: a stunning blend of Cistercian history, Baroque art, and enchanting gardens in the heart of the Somme, France.

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Valloires Abbey, nestled in Argoules, France, is a stunning example of 18th-century Cistercian architecture. Rebuilt after centuries of conflict, it boasts a Baroque interior and serene gardens, offering visitors a unique blend of monastic history and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Valloires Abbey

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit between April and November to experience the gardens in full bloom.
  • Take the guided tour to fully appreciate the abbey's history and architectural details.
  • Check the abbey's website for musical events and special activities throughout the year.
  • Enjoy a meal at La Table du Jardinier to savor creative cuisine featuring flowers and wild plants from the gardens.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Valloires Abbey is located in Argoules, easily accessible by car. From the A16 autoroute, take the Abbeville exit and follow the D901 towards Rue, then the D940 to Argoules. The abbey is well-signposted from the town center. Free parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest train station to Valloires Abbey is in Rue. From there, take a local bus or taxi to Argoules. Bus schedules may be limited, so check in advance. A taxi from Rue to Valloires Abbey will cost approximately €20-€30.

Unlock the Best of Valloires Abbey

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Discover more about Valloires Abbey

Valloires Abbey, located in the picturesque Authie River valley in Argoules, France, is a testament to resilience and architectural beauty. Founded in 1138, the abbey endured significant damage during the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion. The abbey was completely rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries, resulting in the stunning structure visitors see today. Consecrated in 1756, the rebuilt church showcases a classical design with an opulent Rococo interior, a rare find in a Cistercian abbey. Today, Valloires Abbey stands as the only complete 18th-century Cistercian abbey in France. Its rich history includes serving as a military hospital during World War I and later becoming a preventorium for children. The abbey's architecture features a vaulted stone brick cloister and a magnificent half-timbered barn. The interior boasts an impressive organ case, suspended angels, and rococo-style woodwork. The Gardens of Valloires, created in 1989 by landscape architect Gilles Clément, add another layer of charm to the site. These gardens span eight hectares and feature over 5,000 plant species. The gardens are divided into distinct sections, including a formal garden, an English-style garden, and a marsh wilderness garden. The rose garden is particularly noteworthy, featuring unique varieties like the Rose of Picardy and the Jardins de Valloires rose. The abbey also has a restaurant, La Table du Jardinier, where the chef uses produce from the gardens to create flower-based dishes.

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