Hauterive Abbey

Hauterive Abbey is a working Cistercian monastery located in a peaceful bend of the Sarine River, about 5 kilometers north of Fribourg. Founded in 1138, the abbey features a stunning Romanesque-Gothic church with original 12th-century stained glass windows, one of the oldest such ensembles in Switzerland. The cloister, rebuilt in the 14th century, is adorned with delicate stone tracery and offers a quiet space for reflection. Visitors can explore the church and cloister, and walk through the abbey's gardens and along the river. The monks still maintain a contemplative life, so parts of the abbey are off-limits, but the public areas are open daily. The site exudes a sense of timeless spirituality, with the sound of the river and birdsong adding to the atmosphere. A small shop sells products made by the monks, including honey and herbal teas.

Don't miss

• Admire the 12th-century stained glass windows in the church
• Walk through the Gothic cloister with its intricate stonework
• Visit the abbey church to see the Romanesque capitals and altar
• Stroll the riverside gardens and enjoy the peaceful setting
• Browse the monastery shop for local products made by the monks

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Hauterive Abbey

Cheapest way inFreiburg Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour4.1★ · 30 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$6 per personSee dates →Best full dayJungfraujoch Day Trip from Zurich: Swiss Alps & Bernese Oberland4.6★ · 1,475 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$367 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Swiss Alps Tour Lauterbrunnen, Villages, lakes Waterfalls5★ · 11 travelers8–9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$480 per personSee dates →