Abbey of Saint-Martin du Canigó,

a haven of peace in the mountains

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Perched at an elevation of nearly 1,100 m, the abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou is a key site in Pyrénées-Orientales. Just above the Cady valley, embark on an exploration of this monastery that is enriched with the heritage of more than ten centuries.

The abbey of Saint-Martin, witness of the region’s first romanesque art

Listed as a historical monument since 1889, the abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou is a beautiful example of Norman architecture.

Take time to observe and admire all its characteristics, from the superb vaulted crypt to the Lombard bell tower. One surprising detail about the abbey is that as well as its upper basilica, it also has a lower one, which is half buried!

Don’t forget to walk up to the panoramic viewpoint above the abbey for a breathtaking view over the monastery and the surrounding area!

Abbaye Saint Martin du CanigouMILHET Jc
Abbaye Saint Martin du Canigou
Abbaye Saint Martin du CanigouMILHET Jc
Abbaye Saint Martin du CanigouMILHET Jc

On the path to the abbey

In the heart of the Canigou mountains, the beautiful Benedictine abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou is well worth the effort!

To reach it by the fastest route, take the hiking trail that starts at the village of Casteil. It takes approximately forty minutes to reach the abbey.

An opportunity to admire this preserved wilderness and discover one of the landmarks on the Camino de Santiago route.

Abbaye Saint Martin du CanigouMILHET Jc

Stop off at an inhabited abbey

When you arrive at this impressive abbey, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by members of the Beatitude Community. They live here, and they’ll welcome you with open arms and even suggest a guided tour. Here, time really does seem to stand still.

If you’ve brought lunch with you, there are some perfect picnic spots around the abbey where you'll enjoy a pleasant sense of serenity. For those who are really looking to get away from the daily grind, the abbey also proposes spiritual retreats, in a calm and peaceful environment where you can re-energise far away from the troubles of modern life.