Visiting the Abbey of Fontenay is a must-do for any history buff or architecture enthusiast. Trace the origins of the Cistercian order back to 1118 with a skip-the-line admission ticket. This gives you direct access to the abbey’s well-preserved Romanesque marvels, including the imposing church, tranquil cloisters, and expansive dormitory. Explore at your own pace and uncover the profound spiritual and architectural legacy of this UNESCO World Heritage site. With reasonable pricing and flexible cancellation, securing your ticket in advance ensures you don’t miss a moment of this authentic monastic experience.
Key Points
- Purchase a skip-the-line admission ticket to avoid queues and gain immediate access to the abbey’s key attractions.
- The ticket provides entry to the abbey church, dormitory, cloisters, gardens, and lapidary museum.
- Admission prices are reasonable, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.
- The abbey is not wheelchair accessible, but it is easily reached by public transportation.
- Explore the well-preserved Romanesque architecture and learn about the Cistercian monastic heritage at the Abbey of Fontenay.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
About the Abbey of Fontenay
The Abbey of Fontenay is a UNESCO-listed heritage site that traces its origins back to 1118, making it the oldest Cistercian abbey in the world.
Founded over 900 years ago, the abbey is privately owned by the same family since 1820 and welcomes around 10,000 visitors annually.
Guests can explore the abbey church, dormitory, and cloisters, as well as the on-site gardens and lapidary museum.
While the abbey isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.
The admission ticket provides full access to the abbey’s historic grounds and facilities, allowing visitors to step back in time and discover the rich history of this remarkable Cistercian monastery.
Features of the Abbey
Visitors can explore the abbey’s well-preserved architectural features, including the imposing Romanesque church, expansive dormitory, and tranquil cloisters that exemplify Cistercian monastic design.
The church’s vaulted ceilings and carved stone columns create an awe-inspiring atmosphere. The dormitory, where monks once slept, offers a glimpse into their daily lives.
The peaceful cloisters, with their graceful arches and manicured gardens, provide a serene respite from the outside world.
Beyond the buildings, visitors can stroll through the abbey’s picturesque grounds and browse the lapidary museum, which showcases a collection of carved stone fragments.
This UNESCO-listed site offers a unique window into medieval monastery life.
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
When visiting the Abbey of Fontenay, hours vary – it’s open Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM, while on weekends the hours extend from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Though the abbey isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s easily reached via public transportation.
Most travelers can participate in the visit, though keep in mind a few important considerations:
- The abbey has many stairs and uneven surfaces, so those with mobility issues may find the tour challenging.
- The lapidary museum and gardens are accessible, but access to certain areas may be limited.
- Visitors should plan their visit accordingly, as no refunds are given for cancellations less than 24 hours in advance.
Ticket Pricing and Inclusions
An admission ticket to the Abbey of Fontenay provides access to the abbey church, dormitory, and cloisters, as well as the gardens and lapidary museum.
Visitors can explore this UNESCO-listed heritage site, which was founded in 1118 and is the oldest Cistercian abbey in the world.
The abbey has been privately owned by the same family since 1820 and attracts around 10,000 people annually.
Ticket prices are reasonable, and visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
However, the abbey isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
The Abbey of Fontenay offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing visitors to receive a full refund if they cancel their tickets up to 24 hours in advance of their visit.
However, for those who cancel their tickets less than 24 hours before their scheduled visit, no refund will be provided.
This policy ensures that the Abbey can manage its visitor numbers effectively while also providing guests with the opportunity to change their plans without penalty.
The key details of the cancellation policy are:
- Full refund available if cancelled 24 hours or more in advance
- No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours before visit
- Policy helps the Abbey manage visitor capacity and guest flexibility
Getting to the Abbey
From the nearby town of Montbard, visitors can easily reach the Abbey of Fontenay by car, bus, or bicycle. The abbey sits amidst the rolling hills and forests of the Burgundy region, approximately 25 kilometers from the town center. Ample parking is available on-site for those arriving by private vehicle.
For those using public transportation, the closest bus stop is located just a short walk from the abbey’s entrance. The details are provided in the table below:
| Transportation | Details |
|---|---|
| Bus | Departs from Montbard every hour |
| Car | 25 km from Montbard, ample parking available |
| Bicycle | Scenic 25 km ride from Montbard |
What to Expect at the Abbey
Once visitors arrive at the Abbey of Fontenay, they’ll immediately be struck by its impressive Romanesque architecture and well-preserved monastic structures.
Upon entering, they can explore:
- The abbey church, with its soaring vaulted ceilings and intricate stone carvings.
- The dormitory, which offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the Cistercian monks who once lived here.
- The peaceful cloisters, where the monks would have spent time in contemplation and prayer.
Beyond the buildings, the abbey’s expansive gardens and lapidary museum provide additional opportunities for discovery and learning about this UNESCO-listed heritage site.
With its well-preserved medieval features, the Abbey of Fontenay offers visitors a truly immersive and authentic monastic experience.
Exploring the Cistercian Heritage
Delving into the Cistercian heritage of the Abbey of Fontenay reveals the profound spiritual and architectural legacy that shaped this UNESCO-listed site.
Founded in 1118, the abbey is the oldest surviving Cistercian monastery in the world, embodying the order’s principles of simplicity, functionality, and devotion.
Visitors can explore the harmonious, austere Gothic architecture of the church, dormitory, and iconic cloisters, which reflect the Cistercians’ focus on contemplation and self-sufficiency.
The abbey’s remote, peaceful setting also highlights the order’s commitment to living in harmony with nature.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos Inside the Abbey?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Abbey of Fontenay, but they should avoid using flash as it can damage the historic structures. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with staff upon arrival.
Are Guided Tours Available at the Abbey?
Yes, guided tours are available at the Abbey of Fontenay. Visitors can join a guided tour to learn more about the abbey’s history and architecture from a knowledgeable guide. Guided tours are offered at set times throughout the day.
Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Abbey?
There is no strict dress code to visit the Abbey of Fontenay. Visitors should dress modestly and comfortably to explore the historic site. Casual attire is suitable, but avoid overly revealing or disruptive clothing when visiting this sacred Cistercian monastery.
Are There Any On-Site Dining Options at the Abbey?
There are no on-site dining options at the Abbey of Fontenay. Visitors can bring their own food to enjoy in the gardens, but there is no café or restaurant located within the abbey grounds.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Visit the Abbey?
There is no minimum age requirement to visit the Abbey of Fontenay. Children of all ages are welcome to explore the historic abbey, though visitors should note it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Beaune: Louis De Funès Exhibition & Tasting
- Meursault: Tour of the Vineyards on Motorbike With Sidecar
- Private Tasting in Beaune : The Best of Burgundy Wines
- Small Group Tour Morning in Côte De Beaune
- Beaune – Private Walking Tour
- Burgundy Hot-Air Balloon Ride From Beaune
- From: Dijon/Beaune: Burgundy Region Winery Tour With Lunch
- From Beaune: Burgundy Day Trip With 12 Wine Tastings
- Beaune – Historic Guided Walking Tour
- Côte De Beaune Private Local Wineries and Wine Tasting Tour
- Côte De Nuits Private Local Wineries and Wine Tasting Tour
- Visit of Our Xv° Century Cellars
- Full-Day Private Tour, 6 Premiers & Grands Crus, The Best of Burgundy
- Visit Domaine Bourgogne – Guided Wine Tasting
- Beaune: Maison Champy Guided Cellar Tour With Wine Tasting
Recap
The Abbey of Fontenay offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the enduring legacy of the Cistercian order.
With its well-preserved Romanesque architecture, tranquil cloisters, and immersive monastic experience, the abbey provides visitors an authentic glimpse into a pivotal chapter of European history.
Whether seeking a cultural excursion or a peaceful escape, the Abbey of Fontenay delivers an enriching and unforgettable experience.