Jumièges Abbey
©Jumièges Abbey|V. Debels

Jumièges, a destination between history and nature

Jumièges, a journey through time

Tucked away in a loop of the Seine, Jumièges is a Norman village located 30 km west of Rouen. Its majestic abbey intrigues and inspires visitors.

Whether you come by bike along the Seine cycle route, by ferry across the river or by following its meanders, the impression is always the same: a journey through time that blends past and contemporary history.

From its charming narrow streets to its lively leisure park, Jumièges is a destination for the whole family.

 Jumièges Abbey: a jewel of Normandy heritage

  • Jumièges Abbey, a witness to our history
    Here you enter one of the oldest and most important Benedictine monasteries in Normandy. Founded around 654 by Saint-Philibert, the abbey was a major spiritual and cultural center for the monks of the region. From 841, attacks and wars forced the monks to move away, but the abbey regained its splendor in the Middle Ages, and has remained so ever since.
  • Jumièges Abbey, “the most beautiful ruin in France”.
    Victor Hugo’s words still resonate when you see this elegant stone architecture emerging from the vegetation. The two almost 50-metre-high white towers symbolize the past grandeur of this edifice, a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. This masterpiece bears witness to the skills of our ancestors, down to the smallest sculpted element. Anchored in the past, but resolutely open to the present, the abbey welcomes a huge number of visitors every year.

 Not-to-be-missed events at Jumièges Abbey

Every year, the abbey plays host to a number of cultural, artistic and historical events – important gatherings that bring people together. The abbey is a sumptuous setting that sublimates the moment. It exudes a special atmosphere, conducive to escape. This atypical setting transports us into a variety of universes that appeal to young and old alike:

  • The Pierre en lumières festival
    In mid-May, this exceptional event invites you to discover this jewel of our heritage in a new light.
  • Terres de Paroles literary festival
    An eagerly-awaited event on the national scene of literary events in June, the Terres de Paroles festival is inaugurated every year on the abbey site, with a program of author meetings, performances and readings.
  • Viking festival
    Imagine yourself in the middle of a horde of Vikings invading the abbey – that’s what awaits you over a weekend at the end of June.
  • Exhibitions in the abbey dwelling
    The abbey opens up to contemporary art and the world through its logis abbatial, which each year hosts splendid exhibitions by renowned international photographers, blending ancient heritage and modern creation.

What to do in Jumièges

  • Jumièges, a nugget on the banks of the Seine
    Nestled in a loop of the Seine, Jumièges is ideally situated between cliffs and forests, a landscape typical of the Seine valley. Panoramic views of the river abound, enough to feed your insta feed!
  • Savour the richness of Normandy cuisine
    Push open the doors of typical restaurants and sample local specialities such as cider, cheeses and dishes based on fresh local produce. Nearby farms invite you to come and meet them, the perfect opportunity to shop for good produce: cheeses and, of course, good fruit, because here you’re on the fruit trail and can feast on the region’s best harvests.

 Cycling along the Seine

For an unforgettable experience and to discover the banks of the Seine at close quarters, there’s nothing like cycling along the river. Take the Seine à vélo itinerary and pedal at your own pace, taking in the abbey towers.

This 400-kilometer itinerary, which links Paris to Le Havre and Honfleur, is accessible to all, whether you’re a seasoned cyclotourist or an occasional one. Ideal for discovering the beauty of these landscapes.

 Taking the ferry, a timeless experience

To get to Jumièges, how about starting your adventure by crossing the Seine?

The Seine-Maritime region offers you the chance to cross from one bank to the other, thanks to the ferries that dot the river’s course. Free and picturesque, this flat-bottomed boat takes you from Heurteauville in just 5 minutes.

It’s a unique opportunity to enjoy a new view ofJumièges Abbey and the surrounding countryside.

Plan your weekend in Jumièges

Want to extend your stay in this charming village?

Domaine Le Clos des Fontaines welcomes you to a green and peaceful setting, for a stay at the foot of the abbey.

With its shady grounds and swimming pool, Camping La Forêt offers a truly relaxing experience.

Camping du Lac, ideally located on the Jumièges-le-Mesnil leisure park, offers a friendly, family-friendly setting, while giving you access to a host of sports and leisure facilities.

How to get to Jumièges