Maredsous Abbey
A working neo-Gothic Benedictine abbey in Belgium, famous for its beer, cheese, and serene valley setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Maredsous Abbey
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A working neo-Gothic Benedictine abbey in Belgium, famous for its beer, cheese, and serene valley setting.
"The abbey is huge and very impressive looking, though not particularly old in a European sense."
🎯 Railbike to Maredsous
Combine your visit with a scenic railbike ride to Maredsous for a unique adventure! :bike:
🧀 Taste the Abbey's Best
Don't miss the Maredsous cheese and beer! Perfect for a picnic or souvenir. :cheese_wedge:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maredsous Basilica
Abbey Grounds
A stunning neo-Gothic architectural marvel, offering a glimpse into spiritual life and history.
Maredsous Beer Tasting
On-site Restaurant/Shop
Savor the rich, authentic Trappist beer brewed by Benedictine monks. A true taste of Belgium.
Maredsous Cheese Delights
On-site Shop/Restaurant
Indulge in the abbey's famous cheese, known for its delicious flavor and quality.
Molignee Valley Walks
Surrounding Abbey
Explore the picturesque natural beauty of the Molignee valley with scenic walking trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Abbey's Spirit
Taste the Local Delicacies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Railbike to Maredsous
Combine your visit with a scenic railbike ride to Maredsous for a unique adventure! :bike:
🧀 Taste the Abbey's Best
Don't miss the Maredsous cheese and beer! Perfect for a picnic or souvenir. :cheese_wedge: +2
🚶♀️ Explore the Valley
Enjoy peaceful walks in the beautiful Molignee valley surrounding the abbey. :hiking_boot:
⛪ Respect the Monastery
Remember Maredsous is a working monastery. Be mindful of quiet zones and visiting hours. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Railbike to Maredsous
Combine your visit with a scenic railbike ride to Maredsous for a unique adventure! :bike:
🧀 Taste the Abbey's Best
Don't miss the Maredsous cheese and beer! Perfect for a picnic or souvenir. :cheese_wedge: +2
🚶♀️ Explore the Valley
Enjoy peaceful walks in the beautiful Molignee valley surrounding the abbey. :hiking_boot:
⛪ Respect the Monastery
Remember Maredsous is a working monastery. Be mindful of quiet zones and visiting hours. :pray:
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available, but can get busy on weekends. Arrive early for the best spots. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maredsous Abbey is praised for its impressive neo-Gothic architecture and the serene beauty of its natural surroundings. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to taste the abbey's famous beer and cheese, though some find the on-site commercial facilities less appealing than the historical and spiritual aspects of the site.
"Very nice buildings.
You can do walks in nature, visit a big gift shop or eat and drink inside.
The Basilica houses expose etc.
You can get guided tours of the premise.
Worth a visit ? Absolutely !"
E Herijgers
"The church is large and interesting and is separate from the rather commercial bar restaurant area that I didn’t find very congenial to eat and drink the very good Maredsous beer and cheese. I opted instead to go to a local bar and enjoy it there"
Graham Short
"We were recommended to visit here by some fellow travellers and we were looking forward to tasting the beers, cheeses and trying out bread from their bakery. The Abbey is huge and very impressive looking, though not particularly old in a European sense. For the visitor to the brewery etc. there wasn't much to see. As far as we could tell you can't actually visit the brewery or cheese making facility. All tastings appear to be attached to the restaurant. We did try some of the cheese and sausage they make there (and they are very good!), and ended up buying a nut bread loaf, for which the texture was disappointing (very commercial - not like artisanal bread) and it seemed a little stale to be that day's bake.
I think the biggest disappointment was the feel of the place. The shop and other visitor facilities are obviously geared towards buses of tourists, and a large one arrived when we were there. The shop was filled with unrelated and non local souvenirs - there was very little or no connection between the displays of products and the Abbey or it's history, which I think is a missed opportunity.
It's obviously not my sort of place, but suits lots of other people - that's just the way it is! :-)"
Glen Creasy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maredsous Abbey is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient. Consider combining your visit with a railbike adventure from Falaën to Maredsous for a unique approach.
Yes, Maredsous Abbey is located in the municipality of Anhée, within the province of Namur, Wallonia, Belgium. 
Public transport to Maredsous Abbey can be challenging. While buses may serve the general area, direct and frequent service to the abbey itself is not common. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider a taxi from the nearest train station if not driving.
From Brussels, the most straightforward way to reach Maredsous Abbey is by car, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train to Namur and then arrange for a taxi or local bus service to the abbey.
Yes, the drive through the Ardennes region towards Maredsous offers beautiful scenery. For a truly unique arrival, consider the railbiking option from Falaën, which provides a charming and active way to reach the abbey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and basilica of Maredsous Abbey is generally free. However, guided tours of the premises may require a ticket or booking in advance. Check the official abbey website for current information on tours and any associated fees.
The abbey grounds and basilica are typically open to visitors during daylight hours. Specific opening times for the basilica and any visitor centers or shops may vary. It's best to consult the official Maredsous Abbey website for the most up-to-date hours.
Unfortunately, you cannot directly visit the brewery or cheese-making facilities at Maredsous Abbey. While they produce famous beer and cheese, these operations are not open for public tours. Tastings and purchases are available at the on-site shop and restaurant.
The church (Basilica) at Maredsous Abbey is generally accessible without an entrance fee, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and serene atmosphere. However, donations are always appreciated to help maintain this historic site.
Yes, guided tours of Maredsous Abbey are often available, offering deeper insights into its history, architecture, and monastic life. It's recommended to check the abbey's official website or contact them directly to inquire about tour schedules and booking procedures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Maredsous Abbey, you can explore the impressive neo-Gothic basilica, enjoy peaceful walks in the surrounding Molignee valley, visit the gift shop, and indulge in Maredsous beer and cheese at the on-site restaurant.
Yes, Maredsous Abbey can be a wonderful destination for families. Children can enjoy the open spaces for walks, and the unique experience of tasting local products. The railbiking option is also a fun family activity.
Yes, there is a restaurant and a shop on-site where you can enjoy Maredsous beer and cheese. Some visitors find the commercial aspect of the restaurant area less appealing, preferring to enjoy these products elsewhere.
The gift shop at Maredsous Abbey offers a range of items, including their famous Maredsous beer and cheese, as well as other local products and souvenirs. Some reviews suggest the souvenir selection might be quite commercial.
Photography rules inside religious buildings can vary. It's generally advisable to be discreet and respectful when taking photos inside the Maredsous Abbey basilica. Check for any posted signs or ask for guidance from abbey staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can try Maredsous beer at the on-site restaurant at Maredsous Abbey, or purchase bottles from the abbey's shop. It's also widely available in many bars and supermarkets across Belgium.
Maredsous Abbey is famous for its delicious semi-hard cheese, often described as having a rich and distinctive flavor. They also offer variations, sometimes with added flavors like ham. +2
Reviews for the on-site restaurant are mixed. While you can enjoy Maredsous beer and cheese, some visitors find the atmosphere less congenial and the food offerings quite commercial.
Absolutely! The gift shop at Maredsous Abbey is the perfect place to purchase bottles of Maredsous beer and various types of their renowned cheese to enjoy later or as souvenirs. +1
For a different dining experience, consider visiting local bars or restaurants in nearby villages. Some visitors prefer to enjoy Maredsous beer and cheese in a more local setting away from the abbey's commercial areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the neo-Gothic basilica, the serene abbey grounds, and the picturesque Molignee valley offer excellent photo opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the architecture and the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and national parks to ensure peace and safety. It's highly recommended to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near Maredsous Abbey.
Yes, Maredsous Abbey is photogenic year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter can offer a stark, serene beauty, especially with a dusting of snow.
Architectural photography, landscape photography, and even street photography (capturing visitors and monks) can be rewarding at Maredsous Abbey. The interplay of the grand buildings with the natural landscape is a key feature.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Weekdays also tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the abbey itself is a place of quiet contemplation, the opportunity to taste Maredsous cheese and beer can be a highlight for older children and adults. The on-site shop offers these local delicacies, which can be enjoyed as a picnic or taken home. Keep in mind that the abbey is a working monastery, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is important.
🍺 Beer and Cheese Enthusiasts
+2Equally important is the Maredsous cheese, a semi-hard delight with a rich taste. The abbey's shop is the ideal spot to purchase both beer and cheese, allowing you to take a piece of this Belgian heritage home. While direct brewery or cheese-making tours aren't available, the tasting experience at the abbey is highly recommended.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers and Hikers
For a more active experience, consider the railbiking option, which offers a unique way to traverse the valley and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. This activity is a great way to combine physical activity with sightseeing, leading you directly to the abbey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Maredsous Abbey
+1The abbey is not just a historical monument; it is a living monastery where monks continue their daily routines of prayer, work, and study. This duality of a historical site and an active religious community offers a unique experience for visitors. While the basilica is open for exploration, it's important to remember that parts of the abbey remain private and are integral to the monks' lives. The abbey's history is intertwined with the production of its famous beer and cheese, which have become synonymous with its identity.
Visitors often remark on the impressive scale and beauty of the basilica, noting its spaciousness and luxurious design. Although not ancient in the European context, its 20th-century construction showcases a dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship and religious artistry. The abbey's presence has also contributed to the local economy and cultural landscape of the Namur region.
Savoring Maredsous: Beer and Cheese
+2The abbey's cheese is equally celebrated. Often described as a semi-hard cheese with a distinctive, satisfying flavor, it's a must-try for any visitor. The cheese is produced on-site and is available for purchase, making it an ideal souvenir. Some TikTok videos showcase creative recipes using Maredsous cheese, highlighting its versatility in comfort food dishes like tartiflette.
While you can't tour the actual brewing or cheese-making facilities, the on-site shop and restaurant offer ample opportunities to taste and purchase these products. Some visitors, however, suggest that the commercial atmosphere of the abbey's dining area might detract from the experience, recommending enjoying the beer and cheese in a more local setting.
Exploring the Surroundings: Railbiking and Nature
A particularly unique and engaging activity near Maredsous is railbiking along the former railway line. This adventure allows you to pedal a specially designed cart along the tracks, offering a fun and active way to explore the countryside. The route from Falaën to Maredsous is a popular choice, providing scenic views and a memorable journey to the abbey.
This combination of natural beauty and active exploration makes Maredsous and its surroundings a well-rounded destination. Whether you're seeking spiritual reflection, culinary delights, or outdoor adventure, the area provides a rich tapestry of experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit