5 reasons to visit Valloires Abbey

Valloires Abbey is a well-preserved 12th-century Cistercian foundation. It is located in the small village of Argoules, a few kilometres from the Baie de Somme in the authie valley. It is the only Cistercian abbey of the 18th century in France.

History of Valloires Abbey

In 1138, the first monks of the Cistercian order arrived in Valloires. The site was built in the same year, after Guy II de Ponthieu had obtained planning permission. The congregation of Cistercian friars stayed there for over 600 years. After the church was burnt down, it was rebuilt on 5 September 1756, and since the reconstruction in the 18th century, the abbey church has taken on a new look, with wood panelling, paintings and sculptures in the decoration.

The Abbey garden Cistercian of Argoules

Set in grounds of around 8 hectares, the garden is the most dominant feature of the site. Several centuries separate the construction of the abbey and the gardens, but today their combination offers a spectacular view. More than 5,000 species of plants and flowers different, neat and multicoloured are planted in the Valloires garden.

At the foot of theAbbeyIn this area, a large space is cut into squares with a surface area of 25m2 each. This was built to recall the vegetable gardens that the monks used to plant in the past. Indeed, in the Middle Ages, the monks of Valloires were one of the strongest settlements in the northern region. Another French garden is surrounded by the four galleries.

The plants in this huge garden are arranged by similarity rather than species for the pleasure of the eye.

The interior of the church in Valloires Picardie

There are many interesting things inside the church. For example: discover the works of the Austrian Simon Pfaffenhoffen with the neoclassical style of the large façade. The confessional, the sculpted organ case and the pulpit are also his work. The "double reading" choir railings, gilded on both sides and separating the nave from the rest of the building, were made by the ironworker Jean Baptiste Veyren. The choir is decorated with panelling and stalls carved with the high altar in black marble decorated with two angels in gilded lead, topped by a wrought iron Eucharistic suspension in the shape of a palm tree.

Activity at Abbaye Valloires de la Baie de Somme

This Cistercian abbey with contemporary gardens is a exceptional siteThere are a number of activities you can enjoy during a weekend or a longer stay on the estate.

Take a tour and take pictures

The landscape of this historical monument was redeveloped 25 years ago. Today, the place is a postcard setting in the middle of farmland. Tourists come to seek peace, relaxation and quiet. The visit will help you to get away from the routine. The photos taken during the escapade will remind you of your good moments of peace. The visit to Valloires Abbey can be done individually, in groups or for schools.

Restaurant La table du jardinier at the Abbaye de Valloires

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, La Table du Jardinier is well worth a visit. Located in the grounds of Valloires Abbey, this restaurant offers stunning views of the gardens and surrounding countryside. The cuisine is also excellent, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. If you're looking for a romantic setting or an interesting place to take friends, La Table du Jardinier is definitely worth a look.

Organising a concert, wedding or other function

The domain has a reception room that can accommodate various activities and receptions such as group meals, weddings, christenings and seminars. You can also organise a film shoot or a recording. Private concerts are also available.

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