This Benedictine Abbey, founded by Swiss monks in 1882, is on a wooded hilltop that overlooks the town of Mt. Angel. Visitors may join the Monks in prayer, visit the Alvar Aalto Library and museum, and stroll the grounds.
On a summer hike along the paved Abbey walk you are likely to be greeted by Western Wood-Pewee, Swainson’s Thrush, and Bullock’s Oriole, with a good variety of warblers in migration. Open oak woodland habitats preserve native wildflowers along with Chipping Sparrow, Lazuli Bunting, and Western Bluebird. White-breasted Nuthatch, Downy Woodpecker and Brown Creeper are here year-round.
Visit website for information on visiting for a day, or a longer spiritual retreat. Groups of 10 or more should call ahead to ensure compatibility with meditative use of the gardens.
