Welcome to the charming town of Carnac, a hidden gem on the south coast of Brittany in France. Known for its impressive megalithic alignments and fine sandy beaches, Carnac is a destination of choice for lovers of history, nature and relaxation. In this article, we present Carnac's 11 must-sees, from historic sites to outdoor activities, as well as the best places to enjoy the region's culinary delights. So pack your bags and join us for an unforgettable visit to this picturesque Breton town!
1. What to do in Carnac Stroll among the famous menhirs and alignments
Carnac is one of the must-visit sites in Morbihan and its Gulf, not least because of its mysterious menhirs, Breton Neolithic relics that have stood majestically along Quiberon Bay since the 5th millennium BC. Their impressive number - 2,733 monuments - arouses both admiration and curiosity. To learn more about these sites, start your visit at the Maison des Mégalithes, where you'll find detailed information and digital tools to help you understand them. These Neolithic remains, which stretch over more than 4 kilometers, are a unique testimony to the life and beliefs of prehistoric man. The site, which includes no fewer than 2,733 monuments, is divided into four parts: Le Ménec, Kermario, Kerlescan and Petit Ménec.
Click here to book your audio tour of Carnac's menhirs. You'll discover the main stones of Carnac: Le Menec, Kermario and Kerlescan, as well as the Saint Michel tumulus.
2. Sunbathing on Carnac's Grande Plage
Your stay in Carnac will be an opportunity to enjoy one of Brittany's most beautiful beaches. Indeed, Morbihan is one of the best destinations to go on vacation in July. La Grande Plage de Carnac, a magnificent sandy beach over 2 kilometers long, is the ideal place to enjoy the sea and the sun. Whether you're looking for a swim, water sports (see our article "Activities to try on vacation for the more or less sporty") or simply a tan, you'llfind everything you need for a day in the sun. What's more, the beach is lined with numerous restaurants and cafés, where you can sample local specialties while admiring the breathtaking view over Quiberon Bay.
Looking for anoriginal activity to do in Carnac? Book a Segway tour of Carnac and its beaches right here!
3. What to do in Carnac Visit the Museum of Prehistory
Before visiting the dolmens and menhirs, a visit to this museum is a must to learn about daily life in the Neolithic period (5000-2200 BC). The Musée de la Préhistoire de Carnac exhibits a collection of objects discovered on the famous local archaeological sites. You can admire objects such as large alpine jade axes and polished ornaments from Spain and Portugal, testifying to the importance and wealth of Carnac at that time. The museum also offers guided tours, animations, workshops and demonstrations of prehistoric techniques, making it a highly instructive and enriching experience for a family vacation, for example!
4. Enjoy a relaxing moment at the Carnac marine thalasso
Carnac is best known for its menhir alignments, but it's also an ideal thalasso destination! Indeed, the town boasts water of the highest quality, ideal for thalassotherapy and a wide range of activities designed to relax and unwind. The Carnac marine thalasso is the ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries. With its 2,500 m2, this complex is home to Brittany's largest marine spa, where you can enjoy the many benefits of seawater. You'll have access to a wide range of facilities, including a fitness room, a beauty spa, massage beds, a large open-air Jacuzzi, hammocks, a solarium, a tropical garden and saunas. Zen guaranteed!
5. What to do in Carnac Visit the Chapelle Saint-Colomban
Among the many things to do in Carnac, a visit to the Chapelle Saint-Colomban is a must for lovers of history and architecture. Set back from the menhir alignments, this small 16th-century chapel is a true architectural gem, with its granite façade and slender bell tower. Inside, you can admire the magnificent murals depicting the life of Saint Colomban, as well as the polychrome wooden statues that bear witness to the religious fervor of the region's inhabitants at the time. The Chapelle Saint-Colomban is also renowned for its annual pardon, held on the last Sunday in July, which attracts many faithful and visitors.
If you like pretty little churches, take a look at our article on Brittany 's 15 most beautiful villages.
6. The Tumulus Saint-Michel
Ah, the Golfe du Morbihan, a Breton paradise between land and sea! Built around 4,500 BC, the Tumulus Saint-Michel is an impressive 10 metres high and 125 metres long. It is considered one of the largest Neolithic funerary monuments in Europe. Listed as a Monument Historique since 1889, this remarkable archaeological site is home to a dolmen, two burial chambers and some fifteen stone chests containing bones, axes, pottery and jewelry, now on display at the Musée de la Préhistoire. In addition to its historical and archaeological interest, this tumulus also offers a magnificent view of the surrounding region.
7. What to do in Carnac See the Dolmens de Mané Kerioned
There's a good reason why Carnac is such an ideal destination for a summer vacation! Another great place to visit is the Mané Kerioned site, also known as the Butte aux lutins. This group of three dolmens stands out for its original layout, unique in Brittany: two of them face south and are perpendicular to the third, which is located in the center. The artefacts discovered during the archaeological excavations are now on display at the Musée de la Préhistoire de Carnac.
8. Le Géant du Manio
If you're looking foran original and unusual activity to do in Carnac, a visit to the Géant du Manio is an excellent option. This 6-metre-high menhir is one of the most impressive in the region and lies at the heart of a remarkable archaeological site, which also includes a dolmen and a cromlech. The menhir is impressive, but above all it makes for a lovely walk in the forest.
Legend has it that the menhir brings good luck! If you manage to throw a stone to the top of the Géant du Manio, your dearest wish will come true. But it's not as easy as it sounds! Choose your wish carefully, make sure there's nobody on the other side of the menhir and concentrate on getting your stone to the top.
9. What to do in Carnac Visit the church of Saint Cornély
Located in the heart of the town of Carnac, the Church of Saint Cornély is a 17th-century church known for being dedicated to Cornelius. This martyred pope became the patron saint of horned cattle breeders. You won't want to miss its sumptuous north porch, its stunning bell tower covered in yellowish lichen and the paintings on the vaults, which illustrate the lives of Saint Cornély, Saint John the Baptist and Christ. The church also boasts other remarkable features, includinga Baroque baldachin, 18th-century organ,altarpieces, pulpit, high altar and side altars.
10. Fresh air in Parc Césarine
This charming little park is ideal for families with children to relax. It's convenient to stop here on the way to the beach, for example, as it's right on the way. Children can enjoy a zip-line and a slide, while older children can play table tennis or soccer in the cages provided. There's also a spider climbing structure and swings. Access to all these facilities is free of charge.
Good to know: during the summer season, a small theater in the park hosts artists' shows every Tuesday at 6:00 pm.
Are you on vacation with older children and teenagers? We recommend you book this off-road electric scooter ride around Carnac ! You'll embark on a 19 km ride through Erdeven, mixing countryside and ocean landscapes. You'll also see a working windmill and the superb Kerouriec beach.
11. What to do in Carnac Taste the culinary specialties of Brittany!
If you're a lover of good food, you can't miss the opportunity to sample Breton culinary specialties during your stay in Carnac. Brittany is famous for its delicious crêpes and galettes, but it has much more to offer. You can sample fresh seafood such as oysters, mussels and scallops in one of the town's many restaurants. And don't forget to try Kouign-amann, a Breton cake made with butter and sugar, or cider, the local drink par excellence. There are also numerous markets and delicatessens where you can buy local products to take home.
What to do in Carnac when it rains?
Although Carnac is renowned for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, there's still plenty to do and see when the weather is rainy. Here are a few suggestions for making the most of your stay in Carnac, even in the rain:
- Visit the Musée de la Préhistoire de Carnac, home to an impressive collection of prehistoric artifacts and objects, including tools, jewelry and pottery.
- Take a gourmet break in one of the town's many restaurants and crêperies, where you can sample Breton specialties such as crêpes, galettes and cider.
- Enjoy a session of relaxation and well-being at one of the town's thalassotherapy centers, which offer seawater and seaweed-based treatments for body and face.
- Explore Carnac's surroundings by car or bus, and visit nearby towns and villages such as Auray, Vannes and Quiberon.
What to do in Carnac with children
Carnac isa top destination for families with children, offering a wide range of fun and educational activities for all ages. Here are a few suggestions for making the most of your stay in Carnac with your children:
- Visit the megalithic alignments of Carnac, a fascinating prehistoric site and ideal playground for children. They can run between the stones, play hide-and-seek and imagine stories.
- Discover the local flora and fauna at the Parc animalier et botanique de Branféré, around 45 minutes from Carnac. This park offers bird shows, animal encounters and high-level walks on footbridges.
- Take arelaxing break on one of Carnac's beautiful beaches, where your children can play in the sand, swim in the sea and have fun with beach games.
- Discover the wild coastline along Carnac's coastal path, which offers magnificent views of the ocean and cliffs. Your children can walk, run and explore the creeks and rocks.
- Visit the Musée de la Préhistoire de Carnac, which offers workshops and activities for children, including archaeological digs, treasure hunts and prehistoric tales.
- Take a boat trip in the Gulf of Morbihan, about 30 minutes from Carnac. Your children can discover islands, birds and coastal landscapes.
What's free in Carnac?
Carnac is a town rich in history and nature, and there are plenty of things to see and do for free. Here are a few suggestions for enjoying your stay in Carnac without spending any money:
- If you have a car, we recommend you take a walk in the Quénécan forest, one of Brittany's must-see places. Nicknamed the Little Switzerland of Brittany one of the most beautiful forests in France. You can wander among beech, oak, spruce, pine, holly and yew trees. It's also home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including many nesting birds and waterfowl.
- Visit the megalithic alignments of Carnac, one of Europe's most impressive prehistoric sites. You can visit the Kermario, Kerlescan and Ménec alignments free of charge.
- Discover Carnac's old town with its picturesque streets, granite houses and historic buildings, such as the church of Saint-Cornély and the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Tronchay.
- Take a stroll along Carnac's coastal path, which offers magnificent views of the ocean and cliffs. Enjoy free access to the Grande Plage beach, the Beaumer beach and the Saint-Colomban beach.
- Visit Tumulus Saint-Michel, an impressive prehistoric site about 10 minutes from Carnac. Free access is available to the top of the tumulus, which offers a panoramic view of Quiberon Bay.
Where to stay in Carnac?
Brittany is an ideal destination for camping vacations (see our article on Which campsite to choose in Brittany? Les 13 incontournables), but if you prefer the comfort of a hotel, here are our 3 favorite accommodations in Carnac.
- The best-situated hotel: Les Rochers
An exceptional location for this establishment , with the sea as its only horizon. Conveniently located between the thalassotherapy center and Carnac's nautical base, the hotel features fourteen south-facing rooms, all with exceptional views over Quiberon Bay, some with terraces. Click here to book your stay in just a few clicks!
- The quietest hotel: An Ti Gwenn
An Ti Gwenn, "the white house" in Breton, is a charming little hotel with ten impeccable rooms and a seaside feel, which you can book right here. The atmosphere is soothing, and you'll enjoya quiet, shady garden. Just 150 m away, the Le Tumulus spa offers wellness packages and à la carte treatments. Next door, a restaurant invites you to sample fine local cuisine.
- The ideal family hotel
La Licorne is a 2-star hotel ideally located in Carnac-Plage, offering all the comforts you need to relax. A little peace and quiet, a lot of greenery, so many assets to make your break a success, far from stress, hectic rhythms and logistical constraints. Perfect for a family getaway... or a romantic getaway! Are you tempted? Click here to book your stay.
Find out more about our best accommodation in Carnac!
Did you know? You'll find one of the world's most unusual hotels not far away! In Riantec, Morbihan, the Kerbel lighthouse opens its doors for a unique night, more than 25 m above sea level. the panoramic view over the Breton coast and the island of Groix is exceptional.
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