Nestled in the heart of Normandy, La Lucerne Abbey has stood proudly since the 12th century. It boasts fine examples of Romanesque and Cistercian architecture. We enjoyed discovering this haven of peace and serenity, where time seems to stand still.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Abbaye de La Lucerne in La Lucerne-d’Outremer, Normandy.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to Lucerne Abbey worthwhile?
Yes! Built in the 12th century, Lucerne Abbey was restored in the 15th and 17th centuries. We liked its sober architecture, which creates a peaceful atmosphere. What’s more, there are plenty of buildings to discover! We enjoyed a bucolic picnic in its magnificent park and lush vegetation.
Did you know that it is one of the 10 most beautiful abbeys in Normandy?
What you can see
The impressive 15th-century dovecote
This dovecote is our favourite in Normandy! It’s home to no fewer than 1,500 bolt holes! It could house up to 3,000 pigeons. It was originally covered with a roof, complete with a skylight, to protect the birds from predators and bad weather.
It’s one of the most beautiful in the region. What do you think? It testifies to the importance of poultry resources at the time.
The cross-shaped abbey church
We loved the abbey church in La Lucerne. This cross-shaped church has a remarkable Romanesque portal. Built in the 12th century, it features a square Anglo-Norman tower and a magnificent glass roof. Note that it houses 5 recumbent statues, including those of bishops Richard de Subligny and Blessed Achard. As well as the Abbey’s founders, Hasculph de Subligny and Guillaume de Saint-Jean, discovered in 1990.
We learned that it was destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of Religion. It has undergone numerous restorations, the most recent of which have restored the original architecture. We were surprised to discover that religious services are still held there!
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
The cloister at the heart of the abbey
We really enjoyed the cloister, even though, as in many Norman abbeys, little remains of it. It offers a space for meditation and walks. Note the 4 Romanesque arches and, to the east, the only surviving Romanesque double-arched doorway.
The impressive 12th-century vaulted cellar
We found this 2-nave space remarkable, flanked by arches and pierced by small windows reminiscent of loopholes. The abbey’s vaulted cellars are typical of 12th-century Romanesque architecture. We learned that this space was used to store the abbey’s food and provisions in medieval times. These vaulted cellars are an authentic and remarkable architectural feature of La Lucerne Abbey, bearing witness to its medieval past.
The Swan House and its thatched roof
We were charmed by the building and its beautiful thatched roof. This building, typical of Norman architecture, adds a rustic charm to the abbey. We loved the bucolic setting, lulled by the lentil pond and lush green lawn. Note the irises planted on the roof of the building. We found their presence added an extra touch of romance to this idyllic setting.
The refectory with its wooden ceiling
If you’ve visited Mont Saint-Michel, you’ll notice a similarity between its refectory and this one. In fact, they look very similar, but the one at the Abbey has a more Romanesque style. We found this beautiful room, with its upside-down ship’s hull frame, to be quite majestic. Note also the succession of identical windows to the north and south.
We discovered that in medieval times, the refectory was furnished with tables, benches and chests. It helped us project ourselves back to the days when this room was bubbling with life.
WHERE TO STAY IN Normandy
We particularly appreciate staying in Normandy:
- Bayeux – our hotels selection
- Honfleur – our hotel selection
For more ideas, take a look at our article on the best places to stay in Normandy.
And if you already have an idea, take a look at our selections:
Abbaye de La Lucerne in La Lucerne-d’Outremer: how to get there
Where is the abbey?
- West of Normandy
- Department of La Manche
- South of Granville
- Cherbourg to La Lucerne = 1h45 driving time
- Caen to La Lucerne = 1h15 drive
To help you find your way around, here’s a map of the region’s most beautiful abbeys:
Access by car and parking
By car, it’s easy to get to Abbaye de la Lucerne via the D971 from Coutances, for example. The monument is signposted on the road. Ample free parking is available nearby.
Public transport access
There is a bus network in the area, but you’ll be limited in terms of times and possibilities for getting to the abbey. We recommend renting a car to explore Normandy.
You can reach Lucerne Abbey by train. The nearest train station is Granville. From there, it’s about a 20-minute drive to La Lucerne.
Visiting difficulties
The grassy ground in the park is uneven, so we recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Also, as the tour includes many outdoor sections, we recommend that you be well equipped for the Normandy sun and rain!
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities in Normandy
- Helicopter flight over the cliffs of the Côte d’Albâtre
- Book your time to visit Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
- Take a microlight flight over Mont-Saint-Michel
- Climb the Via Ferrata in Switzerland Normandy
Tips for visiting La Lucerne Abbey
Schedules and prices
Admission is €8 for adults and €5 for children.
The abbey is generally open from 10am to 6pm. However, timetables vary greatly depending on the period. We strongly recommend that you consult the detailed timetable on the official website, here, before your visit.
How long
Allow between 30min and 1h for your visit, depending on your interest in the buildings, their history and the park.
Best moment
The light is always prettier at the end of the day, but we’re in Normandy. Above all, we advise you to check the weather forecast before your visit.
Direction of visit
There is no set direction, but red arrows are there to guide you around the Abbey. You’ll discover the site’s remarkable features. We recommend that you take advantage of the information panels along the route. They will help you understand the daily life of the canons and the work accomplished to restore and safeguard the site.
Eating out
You can also bring your own picnic. A unique lunch break on the lawn of the abbey park. We recommend you plan this picnic for its idyllic setting between forest and ancient trees. Enjoy watching the aqueduct and listening to the abbey bell tower ringing the Angelus at midday.
Hotels
If you’d like to stay near the abbey, here are 2 hotels we recommend:
- Au Château: a guest room in a château set in 6 hectares of parkland. A 5-minute drive from the abbey. Book here.
- Au Bout Du Quai: a hotel located in the former home of Christian Dior’s grandparents, opposite Granville station. 15min drive from the abbey Book here.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy
Inspiration destinations
- Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
- Our weekend ideas: best-of, romantic, unusual, seaside, luxury, family
- 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
- The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy
Best of
Practice
- Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
- See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport, Orly airport, Beauvais airport, Caen, Rouen, Bayeux…
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
