Abbey of Valsaintes

The abbey stands on a rocky promontory, featuring a 17th-century Cistercian church surrounded by gardens containing over 550 varieties of roses and Mediterranean plants.

Established in 1188 as the fourth Cistercian abbey in Provence, the monastery served as a center for religious activities and agricultural development throughout medieval times.

The gardens demonstrate ecological practices through permaculture techniques, incorporating local lavender straw mulching and natural pest control methods across different themed sections.

Visitors receive a 32-page guide detailing the garden's plants and maintenance practices, with guided tours requiring approximately two hours to explore all sections.

The gardens include specific habitats for local wildlife, featuring dedicated spaces for ladybirds, butterflies, lacewings, and passage corridors for badgers.

Location: Simiane-la-Rotonde

Inception: 1188

GPS coordinates: 43.95750,5.59167

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:45