Overview
Senanque Abbey, also known as Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, is a 12th-century Cistercian monastery located in the heart of the Luberon region. The abbey is renowned for its stunning Romanesque architecture and its peaceful setting amidst lavender fields, offering visitors a serene and picturesque experience.
Senanque Abbey is a prime example of Cistercian architecture and is one of the most visited religious sites in Provence. It is also a working monastery, with monks still residing on the premises.
Location
Address
Gordes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Neighborhood: Provence
Coordinates
43.960600, 5.245800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June-July
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • blooming flowers
- • lavender fields start to bloom
summer
hot
- • lavender in full bloom
- • extended visiting hours
autumn
cool
- • autumn colors
- • wine harvest
winter
cold
- • holiday decorations
- • peaceful atmosphere
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Respect the monks' privacy
- Check opening times
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • uneven ground in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid available on site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable clothing and shoes for walking, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate clothing for a religious site
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website or authorized resellers
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available online
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Senanque Abbey Official App
Size: 35 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Avignon-Provence Airport (AVN)
Distance: 50 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Senanque Abbey is a symbol of Provence, with its stunning architecture and beautiful lavender fields.
Historical Significance: Founded in 1148, Senanque Abbey is one of the oldest Cistercian monasteries in France and has played an important role in the religious and cultural history of the region.
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and Goult
- Try the local lavender honey and lavender-infused products
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby village of Gordes
- • Try local lavender products
- • Enjoy a meal at a nearby Provence restaurant
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: French, English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Lavender Fields
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots, drones allowed outside the abbey
Result: Stunning lavender fields
Abbey Courtyard
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Low angle shots, focus on architecture
Result: Serene courtyard views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Gordes Village
Distance: 2km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Historical Village
Roussillon
Distance: 10km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Historical Village
Lacoste
Distance: 15km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Historical Village
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds"
- "Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby villages"
- "Try the local lavender products"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
16
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
€7