Surrounded by 7 ha of lush parkland and bordered by the waters of the Oise River, this 13th-century Cistercian abbey—founded in 1228 by Saint Louis and his mother, Blanche of Castile—is particularly famous for its remarkable music and dance festival. What is less well known is that it also offers guests the rare privilege of spending an entire weekend on the grounds, staying in one of the 53 bright and serene rooms, converted from the former monastic cells and offering views of the gardens and the cloister. The experience continues with breakfast, served in a room adorned with antique stained-glass windows, and the best is yet to come with a visit to La Table de Royaumont, a delightful restaurant housed in one of the abbey’s most beautiful vaulted halls. Also not to be missed is the monks’ quarters, where, in a cozy setting, you can watch one of the many films shot in the abbey or its surroundings.
