Montmajour Abbey in Arles, a treasure trove of history and architecture

Looking for a cultural vacation in an exceptional natural setting? The Auberge Cavalière welcomes you to the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park. Our 4-star hotel gives you the opportunity to discover Arles and the surrounding area, including the magnificent Saint-Pierre de Montmajour abbey. 

Montmajour Abbey

A Benedictine abbey founded in 948, Montmajour bears witness to over a thousand years of history. Built atop a rocky peak, it overlooks the Crau plain. It offers an exceptional panorama of this unspoilt natural setting, now partly managed by the Conservatoire du Littoral. From Montmajour Abbey, you can also see the Alpilles massif.

Montmajour Abbey, from the 10th century to the present day

Montmajour Abbey was founded in 948 on the site of an ancient necropolis. From the outset, it was home to a community of Benedictine monks.

Today, you can still see a number of remarkable buildings constructed over the centuries: the Hermitage Saint-Pierre, a troglodyte chapel built in the 11th century, the Sainte-Croix chapel and the abbey church, as well as the cloister. Built between the 12th and 18th centuries, the cloister is renowned for its sculpted brackets and iconography, including fantastical medieval animals.

The 14th-century Pons de l'Orme tower can also be seen. Originally built to defend the abbey from outside invasion, it stands 26 meters high. Finally, the Saint-Maur monastery is remarkable for its rich ornamentation.

Montmajour Abbey is a listed historic monument. A major tourist site on the outskirts of Arles, it offers guided tours all year round.

What to do around Montmajour Abbey

Take advantage of your visit to Montmajour Abbey to see other must-see sites in and around Arles.

Start with the Arènes d'Arles. This 1st century A.D. Roman amphitheatre is remarkably well preserved today. If you get the chance, don't miss a show in the heart of the Arènes d'Arles. You can also visit the ancient theater of Arles, another older vestige of the Gallo-Roman era.

Located in the heart of downtown Arles, the Musée Réattu exhibits much of the work of Arles painter Jacques Réattu, as well as drawings by Pablo Picasso and collections of photographs. If you love art, be sure to visit Arles in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh, who lived in Arles and drew inspiration for many of his paintings from its landscapes.

The Luma Tower, designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry, will give you the chance to discover more contemporary architecture in Arles.

Outside the town, other sites worth a visit include the Roman aqueduct at Barbegal, the Pont du Gard and the Camargue Regional Nature Park.

Montmajour Abbey: what do visitors think?

The Tripadvisor page for Abbaye de Montmajour is full of glowing reviews. Visitors rave about the site's historical interest, impressive architecture and relaxing atmosphere:

• "Superb, impressive abbey and very interesting and kind guide. A must-see. You don't expect such grandeur from the outside, fascinating."
• "Fascinating and enchanting site. You can't help but be seduced by this site, so well preserved and restored. You can really feel the serenity of the place and the beauty of the landscape...a soothing visit!"
• "A very interesting guided tour. Beautiful abbey saved from complete destruction. Beautiful panorama from the top of the keep."

L'Auberge Cavalière, your pied-à-terre in the Camargue

Less than 50 kilometers from Montmajour Abbey, the Auberge Cavalière welcomes you to the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park. 

Accommodation close to Montmajour Abbey

Our 4-star hotel is set in a 4-hectare estate, where you can enjoy a relaxing stay with a change of scenery! 

In this exceptional natural setting, you'll be very close to Arles and its major cultural sites. You'll be lodged between the Camargue Regional Nature Park and the vibrant Arles region. It's the ideal location for easily alternating between cultural visits, walks on beautiful white sandy beaches, exploring the local historical heritage, horse riding and discovering Camargue traditions.

A 4-star hotel for an unforgettable stay in the Camargue

When you stay at the Auberge Cavalière, you'll enjoy a unique experience: sleeping in an authentic gardian's hut!

Our establishment guarantees you a comfortable stay. Luxury facilities are available to travelers. What's more, the Auberge Cavalière has had its own stables since 2019. Beginners and experienced riders alike can book a horseback ride with the hotel, to discover the extremely rich flora and fauna of the Camargue in an unusual way.

Make the most of your stay at the Auberge Cavalièrea 4-star hotel in the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Parkto discover Montmajour Abbey and the surrounding area.

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