Cadouin Abbey and Cloister
A stunning late 15th-century Gothic cloister with intricate stonework and a peaceful garden, offering a glimpse into Cistercian history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Cadouin Abbey and Cloister
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning late 15th-century Gothic cloister with intricate stonework and a peaceful garden, offering a glimpse into Cistercian history.
"Beautiful little find with a pretty cloister garden, well worth a visit."
Audio Tour Recommended
The audio tour is highly recommended for a complete experience, offering interesting historical facts. :iphone:
Church is Free
Don't miss the abbey church; it's free to enter and retains its original charm. :church:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gothic Cloister
Cloister
Admire the late 15th-century Gothic vaults and intricate decorative stonework of this former Cistercian abbey's cloister.
Cloister Garden
Cloister Garden
A pretty garden within the cloister, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Original Church
Abbey Church
Explore the free-to-enter church, which remains in its original state, offering a glimpse into the abbey's historical past.
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Admission and Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Audio Tour Recommended
The audio tour is highly recommended for a complete experience, offering interesting historical facts. :iphone:
Church is Free
Don't miss the abbey church; it's free to enter and retains its original charm. :church:
Charming Village Stop
A lovely stop on routes between Bergerac and Sarlat-la-Canéda. :road:
Consider the Price
Entry fee is 8€; weigh this against the audio tour and historical value. :euro:
Tips
from all over the internet
Audio Tour Recommended
The audio tour is highly recommended for a complete experience, offering interesting historical facts. :iphone:
Church is Free
Don't miss the abbey church; it's free to enter and retains its original charm. :church:
Charming Village Stop
A lovely stop on routes between Bergerac and Sarlat-la-Canéda. :road:
Consider the Price
Entry fee is 8€; weigh this against the audio tour and historical value. :euro:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cadouin Abbey and Cloister for its beautiful Gothic cloister and peaceful garden, often finding it a charming stopover. The audio tour is highlighted as informative, making the visit engaging. However, some find the 8€ admission fee a bit high for the size of the attraction, though the free church is appreciated.
"Beautiful cloister in a quiet but charming little village. It's a nice stop on the way to Sarlat-la- Canéda if coming from Bergerac. The visit is 8€/ person which I found a bit steep for the visit."
Marie Odile Benford
"What a beautiful little find this Auberge of the Abbey turned out to be! The most delicious, fresh, local a d organic foods presented in a uniquely French way."
Carole Druce
"Beautiful place to visit."
Janice Giles
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cadouin Abbey and Cloister is located in the charming village of Cadouin. It's often visited as a stop between larger towns like Bergerac and Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Dordogne region of France. Driving is the most common method, with parking available nearby. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus schedules if not driving.
Yes, the abbey is a central feature of the small village of Cadouin and is generally well-signposted. Look for signs directing you to the 'Abbaye de Cadouin'.
Most visitors arrive by car, as it offers the most flexibility for exploring the Dordogne region. The abbey is accessible via scenic country roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for the cloister is 8€ per person. The abbey church itself is free to enter and explore.
Advance booking is generally not required for Cadouin Abbey and Cloister, especially outside of peak tourist season. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or contact the abbey directly for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Information on specific discounts for groups or seniors is not widely available. It's advisable to inquire directly with the abbey's administration for any potential concessions.
Yes, the abbey church is free to enter and can be visited independently of the cloister tour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit, including the audio tour, typically lasts about an hour and a half. This allows ample time to explore the cloister and absorb the historical details.
Yes, an audio tour is available and highly recommended. It provides detailed historical facts and makes the visit more engaging and informative.
The cloister features late 15th-century Gothic vaults and decorative stonework, showcasing a significant example of Gothic architecture.
While an audio tour is the primary offering, inquire on-site about the possibility of guided tours, especially during busier periods.
Cadouin Abbey was a former Cistercian abbey, and its cloister is a notable example of late Gothic architecture, preserving a rich history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the abbey itself may not have extensive dining facilities, there is an Auberge of the Abbey nearby that offers delicious, fresh, local, and organic foods presented in a uniquely French way. It's a highly recommended dining experience.
The Auberge focuses on fresh, local, and organic ingredients, prepared with a distinctively French culinary approach. Expect well-presented and flavorful dishes.
The village of Cadouin is small but charming. Besides the Auberge, you may find other local eateries or cafes offering regional specialties. It's worth exploring the village for more options.
Picnicking is generally not permitted within the historical abbey grounds. It's best to enjoy meals at designated dining establishments or picnic areas outside the abbey.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the cloister and church, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on-site, especially regarding flash photography, which can damage historical artifacts.
The Gothic vaults of the cloister, the cloister garden, and the interior of the original church offer excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the architectural details and the serene atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and protected sites. It's highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted over Cadouin Abbey and Cloister. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of the Cloister
The intricate details of the stonework tell stories of a bygone era, inviting contemplation and appreciation. The overall design of the cloister creates a sense of serene grandeur, making it a focal point of any visit. The preservation of these features allows modern visitors to connect with the abbey's historical and artistic legacy.
Beyond the visual appeal, the cloister's layout and design were integral to the monastic life of the Cistercian monks who once resided here. Understanding its historical context enhances the appreciation of its architectural beauty.
The Historical Significance of Cadouin Abbey
The audio tour plays a crucial role in bringing this history to life for visitors. It provides a comprehensive narrative, detailing the abbey's past, the lives of the monks, and the historical events that shaped the site. This makes the visit not just about admiring architecture, but also about understanding a vital piece of local and religious history.
While the cloister is the main draw for many, the free-to-enter church offers a more raw and original glimpse into the abbey's past. Its preserved state allows visitors to imagine the abbey as it once was, serving as a powerful reminder of its historical importance.
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