Visit

In search of a still unknown inner space, human being is a pilgrim on his way to his heart, his deepest being.

FATHER ANDRÉ LOUF

The visit of the ruins of the old Cistercian Abbey offers you the opportunity to discover a site steeped in authenticity, in the midst of a valley where Mathilda’s Fountain still runs deep.

In the Hospitalty house, you will be immersed in the Cistercian scriptorium. On large screens, video animations will make you discover the history of the monastery and the life of the monastic community today (10 minutes). Animated models will then introduce you to the architecture of the abbey over the centuries.

The interpretation circuit in the ruins will help you to understand the different monastic places.

You will be delighted by the religious art collection in the 18th century cellars.
The medicinal herb-garden illustrates the uses of the old monastic pharmacy with its historical objects.

Artistic or historical exhibitions are regularly organized.


OPENING HOURS entry to the ruins and to the monastery shop :

  • Winter (Nov.to Feb.) : 10.30 am - 5.30 pm  ticket until 4.45 pm
  • Mid-season (March-May, October) : 9.30 am - 6.00 pm
  • Summer (June to Sept) : 9.30 am - 6.30 pm

ENTRANCE CHARGES 2024

  • Adults : € 7,00
  • Reduction senior, student : € 5,00
  • Children (7 to 14 yrs) : € 3,00
  • Solidarity (Persons with reduced mobility, handicap, disability,...) € 3,00
  • Groups (20 people or more) : € 6,00
  • Groups senior, student : €4,50
  • Group rate child (7 to 14 yrs) : € 2,50
  • School group / catechism group (7 to 14 yrs): € 2,00
  • Solidarity group (Persons with reduced mobility, handicap, disability,...) : free

DURATION OF VISIT : around 2 hours for the Cistercian ruins, the interactive sections and the museum collections


It is possible to organise a guided visit for groups (more than 20 people) upon prior booking.


ABBEY SHOP

The shop sells beer and cheese made at the monastery, as well as exclusive products such as Viel Or beer and cheese made with beer.  There il also a choise of religious articles, nice cards and various Orval souvenis.  A bookshop is stocked with a wide choice of religious books and novelties.


The Gaume region offers numerous opportunities for excursion from Orval :
Gaume tourist Office

  • Parking falicilities : 150 cars, 4 motor coaches, parking for people with disability
  • SNCB (Belgian Rail) Station : Florenville
  • TEC (Wallonia Public Transport) Bus stop 400 hundred metres away
  • Certificate Access I

 

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