Cotignac:
Our Lady of Graces & Monastery of Saint Joseph
Cotignac : Our Lady of Graces & Monastery of Saint Joseph
Step into the spiritual heart of Cotignac on this immersive walking tour, where faith, history, and beauty come together. Explore the sacred Monastery of Saint Joseph and the venerated site of Our Lady of Graces, a place renowned for miraculous events and centuries of devotion. Whether you are on a pilgrimage or simply discovering the rich spiritual heritage of this charming Provençal town, this tour offers an inspiring journey through history, prayer, and devotion.
Tour Highlights
- Visit the Monastery of Saint Joseph, a historic spiritual retreat perched above Cotignac, and immerse yourself in centuries of monastic devotion.
- Explore the sacred Our Lady of Graces shrine, known for its miraculous apparitions and enduring legacy of faith.
- Walk through the quaint streets of Cotignac, where every corner tells stories of devotion, history, and Provençal charm.
- Pause at the serene monastery gardens and cloisters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and a moment of peaceful reflection.
- Discover sacred fountains and chapels tied to miraculous events and local traditions, reflecting the deep spiritual heritage of the town.
- Conclude your visit with a moment of prayer and contemplation, leaving with a deeper understanding of Cotignac’s faith, history, and timeless Christian devotion.
More Information
Duration : 2 Hours
Language : 
English | 
French | 
Spanish | 
German | 
Italian | 
Portuguese | 
Polish
Tour Inclusions: Experienced tour guide, Entrance to the Monastery of Saint Joseph, Visit to Our Lady of Graces shrine, Small group experience
Tour Exclusions: Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from Cotignac, Optional donations, Additional entrance fees
Distance: Approximately 1.5 km
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting Point: Please arrive 10 minutes early at the main entrance of the Monastery of Saint Joseph (Chemin du Monastère, Cotignac). Your guide will meet you there for the start of the tour. See the Google map for directions.
Cotignac : Our Lady of Graces & Monastery of Saint Joseph
Step into the spiritual heart of Cotignac on this immersive walking tour, where faith, history, and tradition come alive. Begin your journey at the Monastery of Saint Joseph, a serene sanctuary perched above the town, where you’ll discover centuries of devotion and the peaceful monastic life that continues today.
Next, visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Graces, a sacred site renowned for its miraculous apparitions and centuries of local veneration. Learn the stories behind the miracles attributed to Our Lady, and understand the profound spiritual significance that has drawn pilgrims from across the world.
Continue with a walk through Cotignac’s historic streets, where medieval architecture and charming squares tell the story of the town’s rich heritage. Admire the traditional stone houses, ancient chapels, and timeless ambiance that make Cotignac a truly sacred destination.
Pause at the scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys, reflecting on the spiritual legacy of the region. Along the way, experience the living traditions of devotion, from local festivals to quiet acts of faith, that have shaped the community for generations.
Conclude your tour at the Monastery of Saint Joseph or the Shrine of Our Lady of Graces, offering a moment for personal reflection, prayer, and gratitude. Leave with a deeper understanding of Cotignac’s sacred history, miraculous traditions, and the enduring power of faith that continues to inspire pilgrims today.
Cotignac : Our Lady of Graces & Monastery of Saint Joseph
Nestled in the heart of Provence, the village of Cotignac is a treasure of spiritual and historical significance. Pilgrims and travelers alike are drawn to its natural beauty, medieval streets, and sacred heritage. Key highlights of a visit include the Shrine of Our Lady of Graces, known for its miraculous apparitions and centuries of devotion, and the Monastery of Saint Joseph, perched on a cliff with panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscapes. Wander through Cotignac’s historic lanes, admire its stone houses and quaint squares, and experience the peaceful charm that makes this village a timeless pilgrimage destination.
Our Lady of Graces and the Miraculous Apparitions
Cotignac is renowned for the apparitions of Our Lady of Graces in the late 16th century, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to the local peasant, guiding the construction of a sanctuary at the base of the cliffs. Visitors can explore the shrine, reflect on the miracles associated with Our Lady, and witness centuries of local devotion that continue to inspire faith today. The site remains a focal point for pilgrims, offering a tangible connection to divine intervention and spiritual heritage.
The Monastery of Saint Joseph
Perched above Cotignac, the Monastery of Saint Joseph offers both spiritual serenity and breathtaking views of the Provençal landscape. The monastery has been a center of prayer, contemplation, and devotion for centuries. Visitors can explore its chapels, learn about the monastic life, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance that has drawn pilgrims for generations.
Pilgrimage and Tradition in Cotignac
Cotignac lies along historical pilgrimage routes through Provence, welcoming travelers seeking spiritual reflection and renewal. Pilgrims often combine visits to the shrine and monastery with walks through the surrounding hills and natural springs, following a tradition of devotion that dates back centuries. Modern visitors can retrace these paths, connecting with the same spiritual heritage that has guided countless pilgrims before them.
Whether you are visiting for faith, history, or the serene beauty of Provence, Cotignac offers a rich, immersive experience where devotion, tradition, and scenic charm come together.
- Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
- Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
- Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
- Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
- Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
- Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
- Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
- Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
- Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.
- Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
- Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
- Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
- No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
- Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
- Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
- Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
- Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.
Plan Your Visit to Cotignac
Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and enjoy Cotignac, a charming Provençal village renowned for its spiritual heritage, historic streets, and stunning landscapes. Travel times are approximate and may vary depending on schedules and traffic.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Airport Meet & Assist Services
For a smooth arrival, take advantage of Meet & Assist services at major airports like Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), or Toulon-Hyères Airport (TLN). A dedicated assistant can help with luggage, check-in, and security for a stress-free start or end to your journey.
By Air
Marseille Provence (MRS) – ~100 km | Nice Côte d’Azur (NCE) – ~200 km
Approx. 1.5–2.5 hours by car or taxi.From the airport, rent a car or take a train to Draguignan or Toulon, then drive to Cotignac.
Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia
By Train
Nearest Station: Brignoles (TGV & regional connections)
From Marseille: ~1.5–2 hours | From Toulon: ~1–1.5 hours by train + local taxi
Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio
By Car
Drive through the scenic roads of Provence, enjoying the countryside views.
From Marseille: ~100 km (~1.5 hours) | From Toulon: ~80 km (~1.5 hours)
Parking is available near the Our Lady of Graces Shrine and Monastery of Saint Joseph.
Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto
By Bus
Regional buses connect Cotignac with Draguignan, Toulon, and nearby towns.
Check schedules before traveling.
Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio
By Taxi / Private Transfer
Direct transfers from airports or train stations for comfort and convenience.
Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups
On Foot / Locally
Cotignac is a walkable village. The shrine, monastery, and historic streets are easily explored on foot.
Where to Stay in Cotignac
Choose from boutique hotels, guesthouses, or family-run B&Bs near the shrine or village center.
Hotels & B&Bs| 
Unique Local Stays
Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda
Find the Best Local Stays – Book your unique local stays with Homestay 
Experiences & Activities
Explore nearby spiritual, cultural, and natural attractions.
Extend your visit to Provence for wine tours, hiking, and local markets.
Book Tours & Activities
Find the Best Tours & Activities
Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator
Travel Essentials
Prepare for walking through historic streets and sacred sites in Cotignac.
Find the Best Travel Essentials
Find your travel accessories on Amazon
Find your Travel Insurance on Safty Wings
Find your local luggage storage on LuggageHero
Religious & Devotional Items
Bring home the spiritual heritage of Cotignac with devotional items inspired by Our Lady of Graces and the Monastery of Saint Joseph.
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Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon
Note:
All times, prices, and details are approximate and may vary. Check current travel information before booking.
Travel Tip
Combine train + local taxi or rental car for a smooth arrival and flexible exploration of Cotignac and surrounding Provence.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.
To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.
Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups
If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.
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Work With Us as a Tour Guide in Cotignac
Contact us.
Partner with Us
We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.