Crossing Pontivy from North to South, the Blavet valley offers a charming and lush landscape. Above all, it has numerous chapels and fountains that are worth a look. There are so many sacred sites to discover. Let’s go!
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Discover Saint‑Gildas and the Blavet chapels
Starting in Côtes d’Armor, the pretty Blavet river meanders southwards to join Lorient bay. Along its way, it carves out a charming landscape between moors and forests. This lush countryside hides many sacred chapels and fountains. Among the most beautiful monuments that you absolutely must discover is the Saint Gildas hermitage in Pluméliau-Bieuzy. The chapel is built underneath a gigantic boulder.
On the banks of the Blavet, Saint-Gildas chapel seems to be caught in a vice by this huge rock. This hermitage, carved into the rock, is sure to surprise you. Legend says that it was here in this natural cave that Saint Gildas and Saint Bieuzy became established in the 6th century. Converted into an oratory, the site then became the centre of the Priory of La Roche-sur-Blavet. The chapel, first built in the 15th century, was rebuilt in 1837. It’s most definitely worth a visit!
Did you know
Contemporary art brings the chapels to life
Every summer at the Art in the Chapels Festival, the small 15th and 16th-century churches in the Blavet valley welcome the work of contemporary artists. The mix of genres works very well.
Sacred fountains
The Celts believe that water has medical virtues and have always worshipped fountains. Quite often, a chapel is built close to the source. Take time to visit Saint-Nicodème chapel. Rising from the middle of the groves, its openwork spire is characteristic of the flamboyant Gothic style. A little further, Saint-Nicolas-des-Eaux chapel houses some lovely paintings of popular inspiration.
