Abbaye de Daoulas, Brest

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Louboutinj

The Abbaye de Daoulas is one of the best places to visit in Daoulas for travelers who appreciate history, nature, and quiet reflection. Founded in the 12th century by the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine, it offers a serene escape just 15 minutes from Brest. Its Romanesque cloister, medicinal gardens, and atmospheric ruins create a deeply peaceful setting where centuries of spiritual and botanical knowledge come together.

Beyond its historic architecture, the abbey is celebrated for its gardens, which are labeled Jardin Remarquable. With more than 300 medicinal and aromatic plant species from around the world, the gardens invite visitors to explore global healing traditions in a beautifully curated landscape. The site is a highlight of any walking tour of Daoulas, combining heritage, horticulture, and contemporary artistic expression.

History and Significance of the Abbaye de Daoulas

The abbey was founded in the 12th century and quickly became an influential religious site in western Brittany. Its Romanesque architecture, especially the cloister and remnants of the abbey church, reflects the artistry and spiritual life of the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine. As the centuries passed, the abbey experienced periods of prosperity and decline, but key structures survived to form the heart of today’s heritage site.

The Romanesque cloister is one of the most remarkable in Brittany, known for its sculpted capitals and harmonious proportions. The abbey’s church, dating from the same period, retains elements that reveal the craftsmanship of medieval builders. Through careful restoration, the site now serves not only as a historical monument but also as a cultural center that bridges past and present.

In addition to its medieval heritage, the abbey has become known for its innovative exhibitions. Photographic displays-presented both inside the abbey and throughout the town-create a dynamic link between the historic setting and contemporary artistic expression. These exhibitions often explore human societies, world cultures, and environmental themes.

Things to See and Do in the Abbaye de Daoulas

Start your visit in the Romanesque cloister, where carved stone capitals and peaceful arcades offer a moment of reflection. The adjoining remains of the abbey church allow you to imagine the site as it would have appeared in its monastic heyday, with interpretive panels guiding you through its architectural evolution.

The gardens are a major highlight. Labeled Jardin Remarquable, they feature medicinal and aromatic plants from all continents, organized by themes such as healing traditions, rituals, and ecological significance. Strolling through these terraces and pathways reveals rare species and beautifully designed plant groupings that make the garden both educational and relaxing.

The abbey's cultural programming adds depth to the visit. Annual exhibitions, botanical workshops, guided walks, and outdoor photographic displays bring fresh perspectives to the historical surroundings. These activities make the Abbaye de Daoulas engaging for families, gardeners, art lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.

How to Get There

The Abbaye de Daoulas is located in the town of Daoulas, about a 15-minute drive from Brest. Visitors arriving by air can reach the area from Brest Bretagne Airport in approximately 25 minutes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Brest on Booking.com.
Traveling by car is the easiest option, with parking available near the entrance to the site.
If you are arriving by train, Brest station provides access to bus routes that connect to Daoulas, though schedules may vary. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Abbaye de Daoulas

• Best time to visit the Abbaye de Daoulas: Late spring to early autumn when the gardens are at their most vibrant.
• Entrance fee in Euros: €9.00
• Opening hours: 5 April > 1 June: Daily from 1.30pm to 6pm 2 June > 17 September: Daily from 10.30am to 7pm 18 September > 3 December: Daily from 1.30pm to 6pm
• Official website: https://www.cdp29.fr/
• How long to spend: Allow one to two hours to explore the cloister, gardens, and exhibitions.
• Accessibility: Many areas are accessible, though some garden paths have gentle slopes.
• Facilities: Restrooms, a small shop, and information panels are available.
• Photography tip: Early morning light enhances the stone textures of the cloister.
• Guided tours: Offered occasionally during special events and exhibition openings.
• Nearby food options: Cafés and small restaurants are available in central Daoulas.

Where to Stay close to the Abbaye de Daoulas

For those wishing to stay near the abbey, consider accommodations in Daoulas or nearby Brest. Hôtel Center Brest offers comfortable rooms within easy reach of Daoulas. Another good option is Oceania Brest Centre, ideal for combining your visit with time in the city. Travelers who prefer a quieter setting might enjoy Hôtel l'Amirauté, well located for exploring the region.

Is the Abbaye de Daoulas Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Abbaye de Daoulas is absolutely worth visiting. Its combination of medieval architecture, beautifully curated gardens, and thoughtful cultural exhibitions creates a memorable experience. Whether you are drawn by history, botany, or artistic exploration, the abbey offers an enriching visit in a peaceful setting.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (1,401)

Daoulas Abbey, at 21 Rue de l'Église in Daoulas, is an old religious complex featuring a church, stone arches and a cemetery, with a standout historic garden filled with many plants, herbs and flowers that delights garden lovers; the site also houses a museum that has hosted exhibitions, and visitors praise the presentation spaces and the magnificent grounds.

Seimen Burum

7 months ago

"A first monastery existed here already in the 5th century but was destroyed by Norman invasions. Unfortunately, the Abbey opened 13:30 on a Sunday,and i was too early. There was a church and a chapel that were open, and I could visit...."

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Dominique Ricci

3 years ago

"Very nice 3hectares garden with lovely rest of an abbaye. The guide was quite knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. Lovely photo expo.Personally I didn't like the actual pictures but the pictures within the garden was a fantastic initiative 👌 definitely recommend the visit..."

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Gwen Aelle

a year ago

"A lovely place, where "rêveries" are welcome. It is so quiet, but also so interesting : you'll discover medicinal plants, a great garden to walkaround, a chapel and some monastery ruins, but also a nice exhibition inside the main building (changing every year) and a café where you can have a lunch or some snacks. I simply love to visit it each year!..."

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FAQs for Visiting the Abbaye de Daoulas

Nearby Attractions to the Abbaye de Daoulas

• Daoulas Town Center: Charming streets with cafés, shops, and local heritage sites.
• L’Hôpital-Camfrout: A peaceful coastal village with scenic walking paths.
• Plougastel-Daoulas: Known for its strawberries and impressive parish close.
• Moulin Blanc Beach: A relaxing sandy beach near Brest.
• Musée National de la Marine: Naval history museum housed in the Château de Brest.

The Abbaye de Daoulas appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brest!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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