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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Brittany, France

Iconic Landmarks

The Carnac Alignments consist of over 3,000 standing stones (menhirs) arranged in rows, dating from 4500 to 2000 BCE. They represent the largest concentration of megalithic sites in the world. Their purpose remains a mystery.

Tumulus Saint-Michel is a large prehistoric burial mound (5000-3400 BCE). A chapel sits atop it, offering panoramic views of Carnac and the surrounding countryside.

Megalithic Sites

  • Ménec Alignment: The most famous and extensive group with 11 converging rows of menhirs.
  • Kermario Alignment: Features larger menhirs, including the "Géant du Manio."
  • Kerlescan Alignment: Smaller but well-preserved group, often includes a cromlech.
  • Le Manio Quadrilateral: A rare stone enclosure, a different type of megalithic structure.

Visitor Information & Tips

Alignments Access

  • Hours: Generally accessible year-round for exterior viewing.
  • Peak Season (April-September): Direct access to main alignments often restricted to guided tours.
  • Low Season: Free access onto sites often permitted.
  • Fees: Exterior viewing is free. Guided tours by CMN usually have a fee (€8-€12).
  • Guided Options: CMN offers tours (French, some English) from Maison des Mégalithes.
  • Maison des Mégalithes (Visitor Center): Located near Ménec alignments. Free entry.

Tumulus Saint-Michel & Viewing Tips

  • Hours: Exterior access generally free. Interior via guided tours.
  • Fees: Exterior free. Interior tour may have a small fee (€5-€7).
  • Photography: Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light.
  • Respect: Always respect barriers and signage to help protect these sites.

Avoid drones without proper authorization. The view from Tumulus Saint-Michel offers an excellent panoramic perspective.

Major Museums

  • Musée de Préhistoire de Carnac: Extensive collection of Neolithic artifacts.
  • Exhibits include pottery, tools, jewelry, and burial objects.
  • Open year-round, hours vary by season. Adult entry fee typically €7-€9.
  • Valuable indoor experience, especially on a rainy day.

Other Cultural Sites

  • Specialized Museums:

    Carnac has no other explicitly specialized or niche museums.

  • Art Galleries:

    A few small local galleries in Carnac Ville and Carnac Plage feature regional artists.

  • Cultural Centers:

    Occasional cultural events or performances may occur in community halls.

  • Special Exhibits:

    Musée de Préhistoire sometimes hosts temporary exhibitions. Check their website or tourist office.

Historical Sites

Carnac's history extends beyond its famous alignments to include other ancient structures and traditional architecture.

Archaeological Sites

  • Carnac Alignments:

    The main sites as detailed previously.

  • Dolmens:

    Numerous chambered tombs scattered throughout the region, e.g., Mané Kerioned.

  • Cromlechs (Stone Circles):

    Stone circles often associate with alignments or stand independently.

  • Saint Cornely Church:

    In Carnac Ville, dates from the 17th century, a central architectural feature.

  • Chapel of Saint-Michel:

    A small chapel atop the Tumulus Saint-Michel, offering stunning panoramic views.

  • Industrial & Military:

    Not prominent in Carnac. Nearby Lorient has an U-boat base and submarine museum.

Traditional Architecture

Carnac Ville showcases traditional Breton architecture with granite houses and slate roofs.

Religious Sites

Saint Cornely Church in Carnac Ville and Chapel of Saint-Michel atop the Tumulus.

Ancient Monuments

The megalithic sites themselves serve as ancient monuments and powerful historical markers.

Natural Attractions

Beyond its ancient stones, Carnac offers natural beauty, from coastal landscapes to salt marshes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Explore quieter, equally impressive sites and local spots like Alignements de Kerzerho.

Emerging Destinations

The entire Gulf of Morbihan is gaining popularity for its unique inland sea and islands.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture dramatic shadows and colors at sunrise/sunset over the Alignments or reflections in salt marshes.

Attraction Recommendations

Lesser-Known Alignments

Alignements de Kerzerho (near Erdeven) are less visited but equally impressive.

Explore Kerzerho

Locmariaquer Megaliths

Sites including Grand Menhir Brisé, Table des Marchands, and Er Grah Tumulus.

Discover Locmariaquer

Local Markets

Explore markets in smaller villages like Plouharnel for an authentic local experience.

Coastal Paths

Sentier des Douaniers (GR34) sections away from main beach areas offer quiet walks.

Isolated Sites

The countryside around Carnac is dotted with smaller, isolated dolmens and menhirs.

Wildlife Viewing

Coastal areas and salt marshes attract various seabirds.

Birdwatching Spots

  • Coastal Areas & Salt Marshes: Attract various seabirds for viewing.
  • Gulf of Morbihan: Especially known for its migratory bird populations.
  • Boat Trips: Often provide opportunities to spot various bird species.

Industrial & Military Heritage

Not prominent in Carnac itself.

Nearby Historical Sites

  • Lorient: Approximately 45 minutes away.
  • U-boat Base: Features a significant U-boat base from World War II.
  • Submarine Museum: Also located in Lorient, a glimpse into recent history.
  • More Recent History: A good option for those interested in industrial and military heritage.

Planning Your Sightseeing

Utilize the Maison des Mégalithes for comprehensive information.

Consider visiting in shoulder or low season for fewer crowds.

Additional Information

Carnac's unique megalithic sites offer a profound connection to ancient civilizations.

Prehistoric Legacy

The purpose of the over 3,000 standing stones remains a mystery, inspiring awe and contemplation.

Alignments Explained

  • Ménec Alignment: Most famous group with 11 converging rows.
  • Kermario Alignment: Features larger menhirs, including "Géant du Manio".
  • Kerlescan Alignment: Smaller but well-preserved, often includes a stone circle.

Ancient Burial Sites

Tumulus Saint-Michel served as an ancient burial place for high-ranking individuals.

Tumulus Features

  • Large prehistoric burial mound dating from 5000-3400 BCE.
  • A chapel atop the mound offers panoramic views.
  • Interior tours sometimes available; check local schedules.

Prehistory Museum

The Musée de Préhistoire de Carnac has an extensive collection of Neolithic artifacts.

Collection Highlights

  • Artifacts include pottery, tools, jewelry, and burial objects.
  • It provides context for understanding the alignments and their builders.
  • Open year-round with varying hours; adult entry fee applies.

A valuable indoor option, especially on a rainy day.

Traditional Architecture

Carnac Ville showcases traditional Breton architecture with granite houses and slate roofs.

Architectural Features

  • The Saint Cornely church (17th century) is a central feature.
  • Reflects the local history and beliefs through religious art.

Offers a glimpse into the region's historical building styles.

Archaeological Discoveries

Beyond the main sites, numerous dolmens and cromlechs are scattered throughout the region.

Additional Megaliths

  • Prominent Mané Kerioned and the Kercado Dolmen.
  • Access to Kercado Dolmen sometimes requires a guided tour for preservation.
  • These sites offer further layers of prehistoric discovery.

The granite landscape is a defining feature of Brittany's geology.

Highlights Overview

Megalithic Wonders

Explore the vast Carnac Alignments and the ancient Tumulus Saint-Michel.

Cultural Insights

Visit the Prehistory Museum to understand the builders of these ancient structures.

Natural Beauty

Enjoy coastal walks, beaches, and birdwatching in the salt marshes.

Practical Advice

Visit iconic sites early or late for unique lighting and fewer crowds.

Remember to support local businesses.