The Chartreuse de Valbonne, a hidden treasure in the Gard region

Slow village invites you to discover La Chartreuse de Valbonne, an invitation to slow down and savor the moment, in perfect harmony with the spirit of your vacation. Let us guide you through this Gard treasure, a destination that nourishes the soul and awakens the senses , just 26 minutes from your open-air hotel in La Roque-sur-Cèzediscover a monument of rare tranquility.

This 1,500-hectare forest is a remarkable ecosystem, home to species that are rare for a Mediterranean region.
It's no coincidence that the monks of the Carthusian Order chose this spot in the 13th century. They transformed what was then a marshy valley into a "vallis bona", a " good valley", which gave its name to the estate. Today, the Chartreuse de Valbonne remains a haven of peace, an ideal starting point for immersing yourself in authentic, unspoilt nature, in a region that welcomes almost 10 million touristsevery year1.

Eight centuries ofhistory and resilience

Thestory of the Chartreuse de Valbonne is one of perseverance. Officially founded in 1204 on the grounds of an ancient Benedictine monastery, it has weathered the storms of history over the centuries.

Plundered and burned during the Wars of Religion in 1585, it lost a large part of its archives. Its reconstruction, begun in the late 16th century, gave it much of its current appearance, with its large cloister and new church built between 1770 and 1780.

After the French Revolution and further abandonment, the Carthusian monks regained possession of the site in 1836, only to be forced into exile again in 1901. It was then that a new chapter began for the monument.

In 1926, Pastor Philadelphe Delord bought the estate and founded the Association de Secours aux Victimes des Maladies Tropicales (ASVMT) to care for leprosy sufferers. Today, the ASVMT still owns the site and pursues a social mission, while managing tourism, wine and cultural activities. The Chartreuse de Valbonne's rich history has earned it the distinction of being listed as a Historic Monument.

• The large cloister: with its 346-meter perimeter, it is one of the largest in France, and was used as a place for meditation and wandering by the 24 fathers who lived as hermits in their individual cells.
• The convent church: admire the complexity of its stone vaults, the work of the Franque brothers, 18th-century Avignon architects, and its marble high altar.
• Glazed tile roofs: one of La Chartreuse's visual signatures. The bright colors of the Burgundian-style roofs of the church and some of the towers create a striking contrast with the sobriety of the Carthusian architecture.
• The small cloister and chapels: the 13th-century small cloister is one of the oldest parts of the monastery. The various chapels bear witness to the architectural and spiritual evolution of the site.

Activities for everyone: between tasting, nature and culture

In addition to its architectural heritage, the Chartreuse de Valbonne is also a place where you can enjoy a wide range of activities in line with green, responsible tourism. For a full day, you can combine a cultural visit with nature and gourmet experiences.
Events at the Chartreuse de Valbonne are often classical music concerts, which take on a special dimension in this setting.

The estate is also a starting point for numerous hiking and cycling trails. The " Sentier du Vallon des Salamandres " is a botanical walk suitable for families.

Wine lovers will appreciate stopping off at the cellar for a tasting. The winery is certified Agriculture Biologique (AB) and Vignobles & Découvertes, guaranteeing quality production that respects the environment.

The Chartreuse de Valbonne restaurant invites you to take a gourmet break in a setting steeped in history. The site also hosts exceptional events, such as weddings or seminars in the heart of the Chartreuse. For an even more immersive experience, it's even possible to spend the night in the monks' former cells, thanks to an on-site accommodation offer.

Preparing your visit: useful information

To organize your excursion from our Slow Village La Roque-sur-Cèze, here are the essentials you need to know.

• Address: Route de Valbonne, 30130 Saint-Paulet-de-Caisson, Gard
• Opening hours: Open daily from April to late September/early October (opening hours vary). See official website for precise details.
• Prices (indicative): Self-guided tour Adults: €5. Free for children under 12. Guided tour on reservation.
• Contact & Website: Tel: 04 66 90 41 24 / www.chartreuse-de-valbonne.com
• Parking: Free parking for cars and coaches available on site.

After a day of discovery and contemplation at the Chartreuse de Valbonne, the return journey to your Slow Village outdoor hotel will seem like a natural transition. You'll return to the comfort and natural spirit of your cabin or lodge, your head filled with the murmurings of history and the serene landscapes of the Gard. An experience that prolongs this interlude of disconnection and rejuvenation.