Saint-Honorat Vineyards
A serene 11th-century monastery on an island, home to monks since the 5th century, offering peace, history, and exquisite organic wines.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
Saint-Honorat Vineyards
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 11th-century monastery on an island, home to monks since the 5th century, offering peace, history, and exquisite organic wines.
"A unique and peaceful place – well worth the visit for its history, spirituality, and natural beauty."
Pack it in, Pack it out! ♻️
No trash bins on the island! Bring an extra bag for your waste to keep this beautiful place pristine.
Ferry from Cannes 🚢
Hourly ferries make day trips easy. Book round-trip tickets for convenience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abbaye de Lérins
Saint-Honorat Island
Step back in time at this ancient monastery, a haven of peace and spirituality for over a millennium.
Monastic Wine & Spirits
Monastery Shop
Savor award-winning organic wines and artisanal spirits, a testament to the monks' dedication to craft.
Island Coastal Walk
Perimeter of Saint-Honorat Island
Wander along the picturesque coastline, enjoying breathtaking sea views and rocky coves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Escape & Monastery Visit
Monastic Life & Local Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack it in, Pack it out! ♻️
No trash bins on the island! Bring an extra bag for your waste to keep this beautiful place pristine.
Ferry from Cannes 🚢
Hourly ferries make day trips easy. Book round-trip tickets for convenience.
Taste of the Monastery 🍷
Don't miss the chance to buy their exceptional organic wines and spirits from the monastery shop.
Join a Mass Service 🙏
Experience the profound peace by attending a public mass service, especially on Sundays.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack it in, Pack it out! ♻️
No trash bins on the island! Bring an extra bag for your waste to keep this beautiful place pristine.
Ferry from Cannes 🚢
Hourly ferries make day trips easy. Book round-trip tickets for convenience.
Taste of the Monastery 🍷
Don't miss the chance to buy their exceptional organic wines and spirits from the monastery shop.
Join a Mass Service 🙏
Experience the profound peace by attending a public mass service, especially on Sundays.
Picnic Perfection 🧺
Bring your own lunch to enjoy a scenic picnic amidst stunning natural beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Saint-Honorat Island for its unique tranquility, spiritual atmosphere, and historical significance. The opportunity to purchase exquisite organic wines and spirits crafted by the monks is a major highlight. While some note the island's expense and limited entertainment options, most find it a worthwhile and peaceful escape, perfect for reflection and enjoying natural beauty.
"A unique and peaceful place – well worth the visit
There isn’t much on the island besides the Abbey, but it’s absolutely worth seeing. It’s a quiet, spiritual place with history. If you're interested in Christianity, history, wine, or just discovering something off the beaten path, this is a fascinating stop.
You might even get the chance to speak with the monks, which adds a meaningful touch to the experience. From an entertainment point of view, there may not be much to "do," but it's a great place to reflect and enjoy the natural beauty – including beaches, rocky coastlines, and beautiful views. There’s also a restaurant on the island. One important note: there are no trash bins, so you'll need to take any garbage back with you.
Ferries run every hour from Cannes and back, making it very easy to plan a day trip. I definitely recommend visiting"
Marina Garvey
"Peaceful, calm, and welcoming abbey. You can enter and join the mass. Quiet place.
They also make a range of excellent organic wines and spirits on the island. Most wines are made 100% on the island. I tried st pierre white and it was amazing"
Jakub Chomko
"The island is SO beautiful. Easy boat ride from Cannes. The island is not big but a perfect place to spend a few hours, you can even bring some lunch and have a picnic, just a note that you have to hold on to your trash since you cannot leave any trash on the island so bring an extra bag if you bring snacks or anything. The views and surroundings are so beautiful and very peaceful. They actually have a big outdoor restaurant, we didn’t try it but looked decent."
Timothy & Kaoru Los
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Saint-Honorat Vineyards is by taking a ferry from Cannes. Ferries depart hourly, making it a convenient day trip. The journey itself offers beautiful coastal views.
Ferries typically run every hour from Cannes to Saint-Honorat Island. It's advisable to check the latest schedule with the ferry operator upon arrival in Cannes to confirm timings.
The ferry ride from Cannes to Saint-Honorat Island is relatively short, usually around 15-20 minutes, offering a pleasant and quick transit.
No, Saint-Honorat Island is a car-free zone. Access is exclusively by ferry from Cannes. This contributes to the island's peaceful and serene atmosphere.
The island is small enough to explore on foot. There are no motorized vehicles for public transport on Saint-Honorat Island, encouraging a leisurely pace of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to enter the island of Saint-Honorat. However, you will need to purchase a round-trip ferry ticket from Cannes to access the island.
While the island itself is free to explore, access to certain parts of the monastery or specific tours might have associated fees. It's best to inquire locally for any specific charges.
The monastery and its shop have specific operating hours, which can vary. It's recommended to check their official website or inquire upon arrival for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the monastery holds public mass services, and visitors are welcome to attend. Sunday masses are particularly noted as a phenomenal experience.
Information regarding wine tasting fees is not explicitly detailed, but purchasing wine from the shop is a popular activity. It's advisable to check with the shop staff for any tasting opportunities or associated costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic monastery, walk along the beautiful coastline, enjoy the natural scenery, and purchase local products like wine and spirits. It's a place for reflection and enjoying peace.
Absolutely! Saint-Honorat Island is perfect for a half-day or full-day trip from Cannes. The ferry schedule allows for flexible planning.
While the island is peaceful, families can enjoy the coastal walks and the unique experience of visiting a monastery. The absence of cars makes it safe for children to explore.
Expect beautiful beaches, rocky coastlines, clear waters, and serene natural landscapes. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Yes, there are opportunities for swimming in the sea around the island, though not directly near the abbey itself. Enjoy the clear waters and beautiful coves.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on the island that offers meals with ocean views. It looked decent to some visitors, and others enjoyed a great lunch there.
The restaurant offers a dining experience with ocean views and a sea breeze. Specific menu details are not provided, but it's a place to enjoy a meal on the island.
Yes, bringing your own lunch for a picnic is a great idea. It allows you to enjoy the island's beauty at your own pace. Just remember to take all your trash with you.
The monastery shop sells products made by the monks, including wines and spirits. While not explicitly stated, it's possible they may offer some small items. It's best to be prepared with your own snacks and water.
One Reddit user mentioned the island can be 'expensive as hell' due to its monastic nature, suggesting that dining options might reflect this.
📸 📸 Photography
The monastery itself, the coastal paths with sea views, and the vineyards offer stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the serene atmosphere and historical architecture.
Photography rules inside religious sites can vary. It's best to be respectful and check for any signage or ask permission before taking photos inside the monastery.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most beautiful and dramatic lighting for photography, enhancing the island's natural beauty and the monastery's architecture.
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive areas like monasteries and islands. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Focus on capturing the tranquility, the historical architecture of the abbey, the rugged coastline, and the vineyards. Candid shots of monks (if permitted and respectful) can also be very compelling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is on tranquility and history, the novelty of visiting a monastery and the boat ride from Cannes can be engaging for younger visitors. Encourage them to observe the surroundings and appreciate the quiet atmosphere. Purchasing a small souvenir from the monastery shop, like a sweet treat, could also be a fun highlight for kids.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & History Buffs
Engage with the island's rich past by exploring its grounds and learning about the monks' enduring legacy. The opportunity to purchase artisanal products made by the monks adds a tangible connection to this historical and spiritual journey. It's a destination that nourishes the soul and satisfies a curiosity for ancient traditions.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
While formal wine tastings might not be a primary offering, the experience of selecting and enjoying a bottle of Saint-Honorat wine, perhaps with a picnic overlooking the sea, is a unique pleasure. It’s an opportunity to savor a product deeply connected to the island's history and the monks' dedication.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Monastic Life
This enduring monastic tradition is not just about spirituality; it's also about preserving a unique way of life. The monks are known for their craftsmanship, particularly in producing exceptional organic wines and spirits. These products are not merely souvenirs but represent centuries of dedication and a deep connection to the land. Purchasing these items directly supports the abbey's mission and allows visitors to take a tangible piece of this legacy home.
Beyond the abbey walls, the island itself is a testament to the monks' stewardship. They maintain the vineyards, olive groves, and natural landscapes, ensuring the island remains a pristine and beautiful environment. This harmonious coexistence between human endeavor and nature is a core aspect of the monastic experience on Saint-Honorat.
The Art of Monastic Winemaking
Visitors have the opportunity to purchase a range of these monastic creations from the abbey's shop. Popular selections include various white wines, such as the highly-regarded 'Saint Pierre white,' and potent spirits. These products are a direct reflection of the monks' commitment to excellence and their deep understanding of winemaking. Tasting or purchasing these items offers a unique sensory experience connected to the island's spiritual heritage.
While specific wine tasting events are not heavily advertised, the act of purchasing and enjoying these wines is an integral part of the Saint-Honorat experience. It's a way to support the monastic community and savor the fruits of their labor, making for a memorable and flavorful souvenir of your visit.
Planning Your Island Day Trip
Upon arrival, the island invites exploration on foot. It's crucial to remember that Saint-Honorat is a car-free zone, contributing to its tranquil atmosphere. A key piece of advice from visitors is to be mindful of waste management; there are no public trash bins, so you must carry out everything you bring in. Bringing an extra bag for your rubbish is highly recommended.
While the island offers a restaurant, many visitors opt to bring their own picnics to enjoy amidst the stunning natural scenery. This allows for a more personalized and relaxed experience. Whether you choose to dine at the restaurant or picnic, the island's serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for a peaceful escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit