Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
France
Finistère
Châteaulin

Carhaix-Plouguer

Attractions and Places To See around Carhaix-Plouguer - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Carhaix-Plouguer, a town in the heart of Brittany, include historical sites and natural landscapes. The area features vestiges of its Gallo-Roman past, alongside architectural and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Black Mountains and the Arrée Mountains, as well as the nearby Huelgoat Forest. The region offers a variety of points of interest for those interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities.

Best attractions and places to see around Carhaix-Plouguer

  • The most popular attractions is Voie Verte Morlaix-Carhaix (Gars an Hore), a greenway that follows old railway lines. This route allows for hiking and cycling through valleys without significant elevation changes.
  • Another must-see spot is The Glomel Cut, a man-made monument that represents the highest point of the Nantes to Brest canal. This passage required digging millions of cubic meters of earth and rock, a significant 19th-century engineering feat.
  • Visitors also love Valley of the Saints, a site featuring monumental works in Breton granite. Located in Carnoët, this cultural and artistic site showcases numerous large statues of Breton saints.
  • Carhaix-Plouguer is known for its historical sites, religious architecture, and natural features. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient Roman remains to modern cultural projects and extensive greenways.
  • The attractions around Carhaix-Plouguer are appreciated by the komoot community, with 6 highlights featuring 11 photos and receiving 83 upvotes.

Last updated: May 10, 2026

The Glomel Cut

Highlight (Segment) • Monument

This passage is the highest point of the canal. It was necessary to dig three million cubic meters of earth and rock to make the canal pass: as much as to build the largest pyramid in Egypt!

The work was carried out in the 19th century by deserters imprisoned and sentenced to forced labor. Many did not survive the unimaginable working and hygienic conditions.

A book “Les Bagnards du canal de Nantes à Brest” traces the little-known history of the builders of the canal from Nantes to Brest.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Valley of the Saints

Highlight • Monument

Stone figures have been gradually being built on a hill near Carnoët for years.

Very impressive. Wonderful photo opportunities.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Saint-Gildas Chapel

Highlight • Religious Site

The chapel may have been a lordly foundation from the early years of the 16th century. Its proximity to the Tossen Sant-Veltas fortress suggests that it may have been the private chapel of this castle. This building is said to have been completely finished around 1500 and is a creation of the workshop of Philippe de Beaumanoir, a very active master builder in Trégor.
Source: Wikipedia

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Beautiful greenway, well maintained and marked. It follows the old railway lines and allows you to cross the valleys without any elevation changes.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul

Highlight • Other

The parish church of Poullaouen, under the terms of St. Peter and St. Paul dates from the first half of the seventeenth century, with many changes in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It has been classified as a historic monument since December 21, 1914.
The church houses statues of Saint Apollinus, Saint Gwenael (Saint Guinal), Saint Maudez and Saint Barbara (offered by the miners of the parish) and a Descent from the Cross (in Kersanton) and a painting dating from 1841: Assumption of the Virgin. Its bell tower is decorated on the outside of superimposed columns. fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poullaouen

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Carhaix-Plouguer.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Carhaix-Plouguer

EuroVelos 1 and 4 — Cycle-touring a week in Brittany

Road Cycling Routes around Carhaix-Plouguer

Cycling around Carhaix-Plouguer

Running Trails around Carhaix-Plouguer

Gravel biking around Carhaix-Plouguer

MTB Trails around Carhaix-Plouguer

Hiking around Carhaix-Plouguer

Other adventures around Carhaix-Plouguer

EuroVelos 1 and 4 — Cycle-touring a week in Brittany

Cycling Collection by

komoot

Tips from the Community

Peter
October 17, 2024, La tranchée de Glomel

This is one of the very few straight sections of the canal.

Translated by Google

0

0

The collection of more than 200 photos for this highlight shows more clearly than words can the diversity of the Breton saints' heaven carved in stone - in this very special case a hill called "Vallée des Saints".

Translated by Google

1

0

The chapel may have been a lordly foundation from the early years of the 16th century. Its proximity to the Tossen Sant-Veltas fortress suggests that it may have been the private chapel of this castle. This building is said to have been completely finished around 1500 and is a creation of the workshop of Philippe de Beaumanoir, a very active master builder in Trégor. Source: Wikipedia

Translated by Google

1

0

Located in the heart of Brittany in Carnoët, the Vallée des Saints is a contemporary cultural and artistic site which will host, in 2024, nearly 200 monumental works in Breton granite bearing the effigy of the saints who have left their mark on Brittany. According to legend, Brittany venerates more than 1,000 Breton saints, but only 700 are listed because not all of them are "homologated", that is to say officially recognized by the Roman Catholic Church. It is estimated that there are about 800 saints in Brittany according to the most reserved historians, up to 1,500 for the most optimistic. So there is still a lot to do in the Vallée des Saints. Source: Wikipedia

Translated by Google

2

0

A welcome breath of fresh air

Translated by Google

0

0

Beautiful greenway, well maintained and marked. It follows the old railway lines and allows you to cross the valleys without any elevation changes.

Translated by Google

2

0

There are about ten twelve years the adventure started with some artist sculptors with about fifty statues. To date there are about 180 or more. bet could not be more successful, before we parked easily, now paid parking, the ransom of success has gone through there. To see and review.

Translated by Google

1

0

beautiful area

Translated by Google

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore in Carhaix-Plouguer?

Carhaix-Plouguer boasts a rich history, particularly its Gallo-Roman past. You can visit the archaeological reserve and interpretation center of the Gallo-Roman City of Vorgium, which showcases ancient remains including the Aqueduct of Vorgium. Other notable historical sites include the 16th-century House of the Seneschal, the 1760 Kerampuil Castle, and the vestiges of Mansion Kerampest. Don't miss The Glomel Cut, a significant 19th-century engineering feat on the Nantes to Brest canal.

Are there any religious architectural sites to visit?

Yes, Carhaix-Plouguer features several significant religious buildings. The Saint-Pierre de Plouguer Church, originally 11th-century, displays Gothic and Renaissance elements, with its porch classified as a historical monument. The Saint-Trémeur Church is a late 19th-century Gothic Revival structure known for its bell tower. Additionally, the Saint-Gildas Chapel is a charming 16th-century chapel with a unique clay floor and wooden structure.

What natural landscapes and features are accessible from Carhaix-Plouguer?

Carhaix-Plouguer is centrally located, offering access to the natural beauty of Brittany. You can explore the exceptional landscapes of the Black Mountains and the Arrée Mountains. The legendary Huelgoat Forest, about 18 km away, provides a captivating experience with its ancient settlements and mythical atmosphere. While inland, several beaches like Plage de la Greve Blanche are within a 59 km radius for coastal escapes.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?

Absolutely! The Valley of the Saints in Carnoët is a unique and family-friendly site featuring numerous monumental statues of Breton saints carved from granite. It's an impressive cultural and artistic experience. The Saint-Gildas Chapel also offers a pleasant outdoor picnic spot, suitable for families.

What outdoor activities, like cycling or hiking, can I do near Carhaix-Plouguer?

The region is excellent for outdoor activities. The Voie Verte Morlaix-Carhaix (Gars an Hore) is a well-maintained greenway following old railway lines, perfect for hiking and cycling without significant elevation changes. For more structured routes, you can find various road cycling, MTB, and gravel biking trails. Explore options like the 'Parc naturel régional d'Armorique — loop from Carhaix' for road cycling, or 'Carhaix-Plouguer – Nantes to Brest Canal loop from Carhaix' for MTB. You can find more details on these routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Carhaix-Plouguer, MTB Trails around Carhaix-Plouguer, and Gravel biking around Carhaix-Plouguer guides.

Where can I find unique cultural experiences or local craftsmanship?

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Valley of the Saints, which aims to become a major cultural and tourist destination showcasing Breton granite. If you're interested in local craftsmanship, Brasserie Coreff offers artisanal and technical tours, providing insight into local brewing traditions.

What is the significance of The Glomel Cut?

The Glomel Cut is a remarkable man-made monument representing the highest point of the Nantes to Brest canal. This 3.5 km passage required digging millions of cubic meters of earth and rock in the 19th century, a monumental engineering feat. It's also a site with a poignant history, as much of the labor was carried out by forced laborers.

Are there any golf courses in Carhaix-Plouguer?

Yes, for sports enthusiasts, Carhaix-Plouguer has its own Golf Course of Carhaix, offering a recreational option for visitors.

What do visitors enjoy most about the Valley of the Saints?

Visitors are often impressed by the monumental stone figures being built on a hill near Carnoët. They appreciate the unique blend of nature, sculpture, and beliefs, finding it a magnificent site with wonderful photo opportunities. Many note that while parking is paid, entry to the site itself is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.

What is the Voie Verte Morlaix-Carhaix (Gars an Hore)?

The Voie Verte Morlaix-Carhaix (Gars an Hore) is a beautiful, well-maintained greenway that follows old railway lines. It's highly popular for hiking and cycling, as it allows you to traverse valleys without significant elevation changes, offering a pleasant way to enjoy the local scenery.

Where can I find information about events or performances in Carhaix-Plouguer?

The Espace Glenmor is a local performance hall in Carhaix-Plouguer that hosts various events. You can check their schedule for information on upcoming shows and cultural activities during your visit.

Most popular routes around Carhaix-Plouguer

Road Cycling Routes around Carhaix-Plouguer

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

CrozonCamaret-Sur-MerArmoriqueLanvéocRoscanvelLandeleauPlonévez-Du-FaouPlouyéKergloffBrennilisLoqueffretLocmaria-BerrienPoullaouenScrignacLa FeuilléeCollorecHuelgoatBerrienForêt d'HuelgoatTelgruc-Sur-MerBraspartsSaint-RivoalBotmeurLocronanKerlazArgolSaint-NicLandévennecPloévenCastPlonévez-PorzayQuéménévenLopérecPont-De-Buis-Lès-QuimerchPlomodiernTrégarvanPleybenDinéaultLe FaouRosnoënPlounévézelSaint-SégalBolazecLe Cloître-PleybenLannédernCléden-PoherGouézecSaint-CoulitzPort-LaunayLotheyLennonMotreffSaint-HerninLeuhanSaint-ThoisChâteauneuf-Du-FaouSpézetLazCoraySaint-GoazecTrégourezBois du Kador

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Plounévézel

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy