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<\/a><\/p>\nThe Abbey of Mount Melleray was originally founded in 1832 in Brittany, France but their monks were expelled during the French Revolution so they decided to relocate to Cappoquin, Waterford, Ireland. Today the monks operate a thriving dairy farm and an abbey guesthouse with shared bathrooms (prices are to be negotiated). The monks also manage an on-site gift shop and cafe.<\/p>\n
In most instances, the daily rates are between $25.00 to $95.00 US for singles and doubles; $100+ for suites, the rooms are average size, some meals may be included and bathrooms are likely shared.\u00a0 While these accommodations are available world-wide, US properties may tend to be a bit more modernized while European ones are more historical treasures.\u00a0 My friend, Eileen Barish runs a website and sells guidebooks that spotlight European monasteries and convents.\u00a0 You will be amazed at the excellent deals that can be had for staying at such elegantly stoic landmarks.<\/p>\n
St. John’s Abbey offers singles, doubles and suites from 65.00 to 110.00. Each room is minimally furnished and has a private bath, lakeviews, heating and air, a phone for local calls and is wired for internet access.<\/p>\n
Monasteries and convents are often sought out when people are looking for their own personal spiritual retreat.\u00a0 The grounds are quiet, one can walk the gardens in peaceful introspection and there are many places were you can sit in solitude without being disturbed.\u00a0\u00a0 This type\u00a0 of pilgrimage or retreat is not suitable for the tourist, because most of the time is spent in prayerful silence and religious worship.\u00a0 While they do not proselytize or force feed their religious beliefs, they only ask that you respect their standards of conduct.\u00a0 Please note that they may also have standing curfews that are strictly enforced.\u00a0 If curfews are a concern, be sure to ask about their policies before booking your stay.<\/p>\n
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Maison Notre-Dame du Chene is a spiritual pilgrimage located in Loire, France. While there is a separate house for families and groups to use for celebrations and meetings, the guesthouse is primarily reserved for those seeking religious sanctuary. All guestrooms are ensuites and breakfast is served daily; rates begin at 35\u20ac pp.<\/p>\n
In her books about European Monastery lodging, Good Night and God Bless, Trish Clark “provides detailed descriptions of each type of facility.\u00a0 There are directions on how to get there, along with general tourist information and some ideas for things to do and see in the surrounding area.\u00a0 It also lists nearby restaurants and pubs.”<\/p>\n
The beauty of the entire experience is that you’ll\u00a0 never know what hidden gem you will find in your research on monasteries and convents.\u00a0 Perfect case in point: Maison du Seminaire in Nice, France.\u00a0 Located at the foot of the Mediterranean Sea, this beautiful former Seminary has 60 rooms that rents for 70\u20ac per night.\u00a0 Each room is en suite, has televisions and telephones and wi-fi and parking is free.\u00a0 The rooms are bijou, but the views more than make up for that.\u00a0 There is a restaurant on the first floor that opens out onto an outdoor terrace.\u00a0 From that vista, you will get to see the rich and spoiled frolic on the beach or watch them sail by on their luxurious yachts. \u00a0 The delicious irony for you, my dear budget traveler, is that you get to enjoy the same beach for a mere pittance compared to what they’ve paid.<\/p>\n
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Fantastically magical views from the outdoor terrace<\/p>\n
So, what do you think, dear reader?\u00a0 Would this type of accommodation be appealing to you?\u00a0 Or you may have already had the good fortune to stay at one of the monasteries or convents.\u00a0 If so, where did you stay and would you recommend it to the rest of us?<\/p>\n
Article Source: http:\/\/www.articlesbase.com\/hotels-articles\/monasteries-and-convents-unconventional-lodging-at-its-best-4119065.html<\/a><\/p>\n