Religious site

Bethlehem Abbey, Bonheiden

Bethlehem Abbey, BonheidenSteven Van Impe · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0
Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

Bethlehem Abbey in Bonheiden is a working Trappist monastery surrounded by tranquil countryside. The monks lead a life of prayer and work, producing traditional monastic goods such as beer, cheese, and bread. Visitors can explore the abbey church, attend a service, or browse the monastery shop for these artisanal products. The serene grounds, with their gardens and walking paths, offer a peaceful retreat for reflection. The abbey's simple architecture and spiritual atmosphere make it a unique destination for those seeking quiet contemplation.

Don't miss

  • Attend a Gregorian chant service in the abbey church
  • Shop for Trappist beer, cheese, and bread
  • Walk the peaceful grounds and meditation garden
  • Visit the small museum on monastic life
  • Enjoy the quiet countryside setting

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Bethlehem Abbey, Bonheiden

You can visit Bethlehem Abbey, Bonheiden on your own. A guide is worth it for the history and detail that is easy to walk past, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.

More attractions in Mechelen

Planning your trip to Mechelen? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Mechelen itinerary.