Our 2022 parish pilgrimage had us based in the Belle Epoque Hotel of the Royal Westminster on the promenade in the town of Menton.
Among the many highlights of our trip was Mass and a visit to the Basilica of St. Michael in Menton, a walking tour of Grasse, praying at the Cathedral and admiring the many paintings including some from Rubens. We also had the opportunity to visit a world famous Fragonard perfumery in addition to travelling to the historic town of Vence praying at the Rosary Chapel with its stained glass by Henri Mattise.
We visited Monaco, praying in the Cathedral at the tomb of Princess Grace. We had a special private visit at the Princess Grace Irish Library and Cultural Centre before going on a tour of the state apartments at The Grimaldi Palace.
A trip to Monaco is never complete without time spent in Monte Carlo! We also spent some hours in Eze and Cannes,famed for its international film festival, sandy beaches and upmarket boutiques.
The highlight of our trip was a day of reflection to the Island of Saint Honorat and Lerins Abbey where it is said Saint Patrick studied at the Monastery in the fifth century. The Monastery is home to 30 Cistercian monks, a place of solitude, prayer, faith, hope and renewal.
Our 2023 parish pilgrimage will be announced shortly!