Journeys and Adventures

According to the American Heritage Dictionary, a monastery is:

1. “A community of persons, especially monks, bound by vows to a religious life and often living in partial or complete seclusion.
2. The dwelling place of such a community.”

   Now, many of these “dwellings” (including other religious housing units like convents and pilgrimage accommodations) are available as a unique accommodation choice for those traveling to Italy.  A website has devoted itself to offering and arranging these monastery stays for those interested in this unique “hotel” choice.

   “Since the 5th Century monasteries and abbeys have been hosting guests who call at the door. Most monasteries follow the Rule of St. Benedict written fifteen centuries ago…. And [their life is one] devoted to others and hence the emphasis on hospitality in the Rule of St. Benedict.”  Enjoy the open hospitality and chance to experience a different side of Italian life by choosing this unique accommodation.

Accommodations

Monastery Stays only includes rooms that are the equivalent of a 3-4* hotel choice with ensuite bathrooms, but does remind its guests “Do not expect luxury—that is not a monstery’s purpose.”   Room types vary by monastery and range from single room (with single bed) to multiple room (with 4-5 beds and privacy curtains).

Rules

There are some rules to staying in a monastery out of respect:

• People of the opposite sex sharing a room must be married or be direct family members.
• Guests are expected to follow established curfews—each monastery and convent is a functioning religious house and has their own established opening hours so check-in, check-out, and getting in at night to this unique accommodation is all based around those hours.
• Reservations must be made for a minimum two nights.

Locations

Reservations are available all over Italy including popular destinations like Venice, Rome, and Tuscany and more remote areas like Basilcata, Sardenia, and Umbria.

Rates

Rates vary based on monastery and room choice, but are generally lower than standard hotels and B&B’s.

Reservations

It’s a bit more time-consuming to make reservations at a monastery than just point-and-click, but the folks at Monastery Stays will help arrange everything for you.

More Information

Some articles are available that explain what it’s like to stay in a monastery or convent, why this unique hotel choice is ideal for women travellers, and why this is a good accommodation choice for families trying to save money.

This is the seventh post in a series on Unique Accommodations.  Find out more unique hotel choices…