History and Breton legends intermingle at the heart of Brittany. In Monts d’Arrée, plunge into the life of peasants from a time past and mystical landscapes. Who knows, at dawn you might even come across some of the elves and korrigans who have found refuge here. Or perhaps you’ll meet them in the middle of the rocky chaos of Huelgoat forest. In Carhaix, you can return to the Gallo-Roman period. At Trévarez castle, you’ll be surprised by its modernity.
Welcome to Monts d’Arrée, land of peat bogs, moors and ferns. Visit the Ecomusée to better understand the life of peasants in times gone by in Central Brittany.
Continue your rural pilgrimage to Maison Cornec in Saint-Rivoal. This was the home of a rich peasant family in the 18th century. How can you tell? The protruding wing and the outside staircase are symbols of wealth of the time.
20 minutes from there, you won’t want to skip Relec Abbey – the remains of a Cistercian cloister, the kitchen garden, the gardens and the immersive video whisk you back in time. Its cultural programme is renewed on a regular basis.
At dawn, set off for a hike with the ADDES association. Mist, sunshine, whatever the weather, you’ll love watching the sun rise over the moors and on the ridges of Monts d’Arrée. Marvel at nature waking up and, on the way back, appreciate a copious breakfast of local products.
Once full, head off to the enigmatic Huelgoat forest. Oh look, a giant mushroom! Over there a shaking rock, further still a granite chaos… Be surprised by the beauty and curiosity of these rocks that have been polished by time. This maze of stones and plants has inspired many tales.
At the end of the day, experience the particular atmosphere that reigns in Vallée des Saints, a mini Breton version of Easter Island. Nicodème, Haude, Möé, Ginnery… Can you recognise the Breton saints immortalised in granite giants? A map is available that will help you to find them!
Dedicate your morning to a visit of the archaeological interpretation centre of the site of Vorgium. Today it is Carhaix!
In the town centre, Vorgium proposes two spaces for an immersive and interactive experience. With a digital tablet, rediscover the Gallo-Roman district that has been rebuilt in the garden. Thanks to augmented reality, you can even enter one of the luxurious dwellings. Captivating! Inside the centre, a permanent exhibition plunges you into the daily life of the period. Don’t hesitate to use the touch screens.
In the afternoon, off to the “20th-Century Heritage”-labelled Domaine de Trévarez. Explore the pink neo-Gothic Château on your own or with a guide. Whatever the season, there’s always something happening there. A tearoom has taken up residence in the former stables and the gardens are simply … magnificent.
All the information from the site and more in a pdf file
