La Chartreuse de la Verne, Collobrieres

Enormous Benedictine abbey in the heart of the Massif des Maures

featured in Sights & sites

Located in Collobireres, the old Carthusian monastery of Our Lady of La Verne is close in distance from the major tourist towns.

The Romanesque church was built in 1174, however in 1264 and 1271 it was burned down. It wasn't until the sixteenth century that the present chapel and the great south gate were built.

The current Chartreuse is a lovely and imposing set of buildings, completely isolated in a hilly forest of pine, oak and chestnut, overlooking the artificial lake, Lac de la Verne.

The drive up to the monastery is a beautiful scenic trip. A community of nuns still lives in the building, making ceramics and other crafts for sale at their shop.

Open every day except Tuesday 11:00-17:00. In July and August, open every day 11:00-18:00. Closed in January and on the main religious festivities: Christmas, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost, August 15th and November 1st. The shop is closed on Sundays.

Visitor comments

"Probably one of the biggest monasteries we've ever visited. The drive there is lovely but quite adventurous and not once did we see the monastery. We parked our car in the car park and from there it is about 750m walk and suddenly the monastery dooms up out of the forest. The staff was really nice and helpful. They offer written guides in loads of languages and the monastery itself is beautifully renovated. It is still in use so mind you to be quiet." - Trip Advisor
"Wonderful place, so peaceful, well renovated, lost on the hills surrounding by a lovely forest and with amazing views. The drive to get there is lovely (drive slowly and careful though!!!). A true moment of authenticity and peace, away from the tumult of the season (if being there in July and August). Extremely refreshing and truly inspiring!!! Not to be missed by the nature and historic lovers. Great walks also to do around! A beautiful, memorable family day indeed!! Take a picnic and spend the day up there (visit the site and have a walk)!!!" - Trip Advisor
"What a place! The drive is beautiful and this Chartreuse is such a beauty. The visit takes 30 minutes and it is superb. The renovation has been long but the result is very nice. This is a very nice place to visit, the views are stunning, we really enjoyed it." - Trip Advisor