Former convents and monasteries are a popular choice for many travelers looking for unique, historically significant accommodations. These once-humble buildings now serve as five-star spas and hotels. They invite travelers to sleep within walls that have stood for centuries and awaken to the serene beauty that has inspired monks and nuns throughout the ages. These places, whether on the Amalfi Coast or Quebec City, offer a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the past. They also provide the comfort and luxury of the hospitality we know today. As they continue to preserve the spirit of peace and tradition, these places prove that some buildings can serve new purposes while honoring their sacred origins.
Le Monastère des Augustines, Quebec City, Canada
Situated in Old Quebec, Le Monastère des Augustines occupies the historic wings of the Hôtel-Dieu de Québec monastery, founded by the Augustinian Sisters in 1639. This haven preserves its heritage through thoughtful restoration and promotes wellness and holistic health. Guests can partake in activities such as yoga, meditation, and workshops on healthy living. They also enjoy the presence of artifacts and archives that tell the story of the Augustinian Sisters’ healing mission. Visitors also have the opportunity to stay in actual nuns’ cells, meticulously preserved, offering a historical ambiance and modern convenience.
Monastero Santa Rosa, Amalfi Coast, Italy
Monastero Santa Rosa, poised spectacularly on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, has transformed from a 17th-century monastery into a breathtaking luxury hotel and spa. The restoration carefully preserved the building’s original architecture, including its majestic vaulted ceilings and sacred chapel. The highlight is its infinity pool, seemingly suspended between sky and sea, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Salerno. The hotel’s spa, housed in the monastery’s original cellars, provides a wellness sanctuary, utilizing ancient remedies alongside modern treatments.
Convento do Espinheiro, Évora, Portugal
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Convento do Espinheiro is a luxurious hotel that was once a 15th-century convent. This hotel is located in the Alentejo region and boasts remarkable Gothic and Renaissance architecture, stunning gardens, and a memorable sense of tranquility. Guests can enjoy wine tastings from the area, relax at the divine spa, or explore the ancient city of Évora.
Parador de Granada, Spain
Parador de Granada is a gem within the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This former monastery, built by the Catholic Monarchs in the 15th century, now serves as a boutique hotel. It offers an exclusive experience of living within the confines of one of Spain’s most significant historical sites. The rooms offer views of the Generalife, the summer palace and gardens of the Nasrid kings, or the peaceful convent courtyard. Here, guests also have the chance to experience the Alhambra in a way few can—wandering its grounds after the day’s tourists have departed, in the quiet of the evening or the first light of dawn.
Belmond Hotel Monasterio, Cusco, Peru
The Belmond Hotel Monasterio in Cusco is a former 16th-century monastery that reflects the city’s extensive past. This magnificent hotel maintains its former architecture, featuring elaborate Baroque elements and a gorgeous chapel while serving contemporary amenities. Guests can enjoy beautiful lodgings, great food, and even an oxygen-rich atmosphere to help them adjust to the altitude. Highlights include original artwork, tranquil courtyards, and a blend of Incan and Spanish colonial heritage.
