Vaux de Cernay Abbey
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Vaux de Cernay Abbey - by Cao Biki on Google
Description
Vaux-de-Cernay Abbey was a Cistercian monastery founded in the 12th century. The monastery was shut down during the French Revolution (late 18th century) but was partially renovated when it was bought by the Baroness Charlotte de Rothschild in 1873. Post WW2 it came in possession of an aircraft manufacturer (Felix Amiot) before being sold to the "Hôtels Particuliers" groups that has further renovated it and uses the complex for an hotel, restaurants and conference / seminar venues.
Access & Transport
The complex is located within the natural parc of the Haute Valley of Chevreuse, in the Yvelines department, to the southwest of Paris. The easiest way to get there from Paris is by car: take the N10 until Les Essarts-le-Roi and then the D24 past the village of Auffargis. By public transport: RER D until Verrière and then hop on to the Baladobus (which used to leave from Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse at the end of the line RERB (B4). Details here: https://www.parc-naturel-chevreuse.fr/destination-parc/panorama-se-deplacer-acces/baladobus
Instructions & Recommendations
The complex is privately managed so you can take a look around but you will need to stay or eat there wo make the most of the place. A good full day itinerary would include a visit of the village of Chevreuse + Chateau de la Madeleine followed by a hike (refer to the review of Chevreuse village & valley). After lunch, a visit to either Domaine de Dampierre (reviewed separately) or Chateau de Breteuil followed by the Vaux de Cernay Abbey.
Environmental & Social
Light environmental footprint + plenty of green spaces. Socially, it helps preserve the region's architectural and cultural heritages
Conclusion
The Vaux de Cernay Abbey has a pretty striking silhouette and is worth a stop for anybody touring the area, but probably not a long detour. If your main source of enjoyment is visual then this is an excellent activity but if you are more into the historical background and authentic atmosphere you may be a little underwhelmed because of the commercial aspect - this is not a critic though because in many cases it is one of the best soutions to bring old buildings back to life.
Key positive
Visually stunning buildings
Beautiful park and not crowded
Key negative
The hotel and restaurant will override the monastic atmosphere for some visitors
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo