Discover Vannes from ASSIWA: Journey in Morbihan

Awarded 4 flowers by Village Fleuri, the town of La Vraie-Croix is also known for winning the Grand Prix National du Fleurissement (an award given out every year to one or several villages in France with 4 flowers), and the Prix Européen du Fleurissement (for all of Europe). It is also invited to attend the Floralies International, a prestigious floral event held in Nantes in May 2014. La Vraie-Croix was formerly known as Langroez and used as a resting place for the Knights of Malta during the Crusades.

This town is named after the sweet chestnut tree. In the Breton language, it is called Kisten Berh, which means “land of the chestnuts”. In the 12th century, the name “Questembert” was found in writing; however, over time, the spelling changed.

The name "Questembert" comes from the Breton word "Kisten Berh", which means "Land of Chestnuts". Near the centre of town, this trail takes you along the hollow ways towards the creek of Cohignac and then St John's Chapel. In springtime, asphodels bloom on the banks and in the woods, showing off their elongated stems and handsome spikes of white flowers. They are locally known as "popinettes", hence the name of the trail. From this trail, you can reach Berric by following the marked paths (3km). Yellow marks

To the north of Questembert, the town of Molac is perched on a hill overlooking the Valley of Arz. The town's architectural heritage reflects its history, which is thousands of years old. The trail heads toward the River Arz and takes the Voie Verte (Green Lane), the old railway. It crosses the Grées (shale-like hills) of Lindeul. Finally, it penetrates the vast forest of Lanvaux. Please follow the yellow marks.

Rochefort-en-Terre is very lucky to have a rich architectural heritage. Thanks to the local government’s desire to maintain and protect the site, this village is now classified as a Petite Cité de Caractère (an award honouring the remarkable architectural heritage and landscape of small villages in France). Rochefort-en-Terre is also part of the Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages in France) and Villes Fleuris (an award recognising a town’s respect for the environment, protection of a social and community network, and quality of its tourist facilities) with four flowers thanks to the combined efforts by the community and residents. Starting from Place du Puits, take Rue des Scourtets, and then, Chemin des Douves, located to your right. Walk along the strongholds and fortifications built during the 14th and 16th centuries.

The area of Malansac extends from Rochefort-en-Terre (town listed as a "Petite Cité de Caractère"), to the Grées, a shale and slate-like strip that towers over the Valley of Arz. The Circuit des Ardoisières offers fantastic views but be careful; due to the presence of old open pit mines, it is recommended that you stay on the marked path. VTT marks n°5 blue

This long loop passes through large wooded areas of oak and chestnut trees, including the Grand Val at the bottom of which flows Matz Creek. It leads to the Valley of Trévelo Creek, which separates the towns of Caden and Limerzel.

‘I am in a magnificent untamed land, a formidable heap of rocks and an incredible sea of colour’. Letter to Caillebotte, 11 October 1886 Claude Monet stayed at Belle-Île from 12 September to 25 November 1886. The self-portrait he painted that year shows him in the fullness of his maturity: he would turn 46 on 14 November. He starts to become known and appreciated. While lodging at Kervilahouen, he left us 75 letters that offer a window into his daily life and the conditions in which he worked. Along the coast you may find the different spots where he set his easel by following any of the suggested loop hikes, from Lion Rock to Port-Domois.

The jardin de curé (kitchen garden) is made up of four square vegetable beds edged with boxwood (sign of eternity). Beds were also placed along stone walls. Fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, and medicinal plants are all grown together in order make the most out of these kitchen gardens. A learning garden was also set up here. Things to discover nearby: Public fountain At the edge of town, the fountain takes on a very monumental aspect. It is surrounded by a stone wall. Its basin is sheltered underneath a platform supported by four small columns.

The building situated in front of the chapel is the old rectory. Here, Rector Tanguy set up a carpentry workshop where he made the woodwork for the current church (1891-1892). Once connected to the chapel, the building now holds the multimedia library, renovated in 2012 with a new green roof, which overlooks the adjacent jardin de curé (kitchen garden).

The chapel is the town’s most unusual monument and located above a public road. Legend has it that a knight, coming back from the Crusades, carried a real piece of Christ’s cross. After stopping in the village of Hôpital, the knight fell asleep at the foot of a hawthorn. When he woke up, he realised that the piece of the cross had been stolen from him. He left the village without ever finding it. Shortly after, the people of the village noticed, at the top of a hawthorn, a crow’s nest lit with a supernatural light: the light came from the piece of the cross. The piece was brought to the church; however, it disappeared the following night. It was found once again in the crow’s nest. The people decided to build a chapel here with the choir located in the same place where the fragment of Christ’s cross had been found. A reliquary cross holding the piece of cross is kept inside the southern transept. The granite chapel dates back to the 16th century; however, it was restored at the end of the 20th century (1974-1986) by Bâtiments de France. The chapel, along with the crypt, were both classified as Historical Monuments in 1926. The chapel was built above a one-way public road, going from the square towards the street. This particular location allows pilgrims to pass underneath the relic situated in the upper chapel. An archway, located on the eastern side, overlooks a type of vaulted crypt lit by two stained glass windows. The altar from Saint Just chapel (located about 3km away from the village) is situated here, along with a statue of Mary, font and lintel. On the opposite side, a similar archway holds a beautiful portal made of four pointed arches. Previously, this solemn entrance lead to a staircase, which climbed to the upper floor. The chapel also has another defining feature: two staircases on each side of the upper chapel, allowing pilgrims to easily come and venerate the relic. The panelled vault is painted sky blue and dotted with gold stars. The choir, marked off by a wrought iron gate, is completely covered with carved wooden panels. The altar has the same decorative design. The pews are covered in plant motifs. The entire decor was created by Rector Tanguy, who also did all of the church’s woodwork. The two stained glass windows on either side of the choir illustrate the legend of the relic in the nest and the reliquary of La Vraie-Croix. Turn around and you can see the reliquary cross kept inside the southern transept. It contains a piece of Christ’s cross. It is only 20cm high; however, it is a true cross-shaped masterpiece made of bronze and silver with a wooden core.

The story and name of the town are linked with this tall chapel, which was originally built to house a relic of Christ's real cross. The chapel is classified as a Historical Monument.

This building, with a turret at the rear, was used as a dairy during the 1950s before being turned into housing and assembly rooms. During the 12th and 13th centuries, it was home to the monks of St John of Jerusalem, whose mission was to welcome and care for pilgrims travelling to The Way of Saint James or Jerusalem.

Previously, another church, whose patron saint was Saint Sauveur and Saint John the Baptist, was found here. In the late 19th century, it was destroyed and replaced by the current church kept by Saint Isidore, the patron saint of farmers. The nave and tower were built by Rector Tanguy between 1891 and 1892. He also made the woodwork, side altars, confessionals, pulpit and tribune. The new building was solemnly blessed on 25 June 1893. The right altarpiece was restored in 2012.

The fountain is shaped like a small temple with four columns covered by a stone roof, giving it a monumental appearance. It is a beautiful example of a structure built during the 16th century in Brittany. It is classified as a Historical Monument. The fountain is surrounded by concrete slabs. In front, a basin that was used as a washing place.

To the left of the path, a rocky cliff towers over the creek of Ferrières. One of the rocks overlooks the hillside. A large block sits at the top with rounded basins and rills hollowed in the granite. Legend has it that it was a place of human sacrifice and that the blood of the victims flowed like a waterfall down the rock.

The first chapel was built by the monastic community of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem during the 12th century and under the control of Carentoir like the chapels of Gorvello, Molac and Guerno. It was restored in the 18th century and decorated with a Classical-style pediment on the main door.

Located in the historic part of town this crêperie has traditional cuisine on offer: crêpes, galettes and salads.

Located on the port of Piriac the staff of La Vigie extends a warm welcome to you to this restaurant with its pleasant setting and rich colours. La brasserie La Vigie offers traditional refined cuisine made from fresh ingredients which you can savour in one of our two dining rooms with a sea view or from the terrace which overlooks the port. Discover our menu whose specialities change according to the season from seafood in the summer to ‘la tête de veau sauce gribiche’ in winter. Our not to be missed ‘choucroute de poissons de La Vigie’ (sauerkraut served with several different types of fish) is available all year round! You can choose your individual dishes from the main menu or opt for one of our set menus. Every day a different starter and main dish is on offer! Choices inspired by the talent of our chef! Convivial moments to be shared by all, couples, with friends or the whole family – we are proud to be members of the charter ‘famille plus’.

This bar with its many events organised in summer time is located on the port with a beautiful view over the sea. An ideal venue for a break with friends or with family.

Located facing the port of Piriac with a beautiful view over the sea this restaurant offers traditional cuisine with specialities such as : seafood platter, fish dishes, mussels, grilled meat/fish dishes and salads. Open all year round.

Welcome to this Crêperie with its pretty terrace and warm ambiance. On offer is traditional cuisine not only crêpes and galettes but also salads, local produce, homemade ice-cream and sorbets...

Take the pedestrian crossing towards Célac pond. Walk around it on the left and climb up towards the campsite entrance. Go straight until you come to the Fountain of Hulo, further down the RD. Go around the campsite and continue through the moorland of Kerjumais. Cross RD1 towards the playing fields of Galinio. Continue close to the orchard and go down through the woods via a nice hollow way.

Stay in Rochefort-en-Terre, in the Heart of Brittany: Accommodation & Must-See Attractions Rochefort-en-Terre, ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages in France," is a charming destination in Brittany, perfect for a getaway blending nature, heritage, and local craftsmanship. With its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and picturesque ambiance, this village captivates visitors seeking authenticity and relaxation. Accommodation in Rochefort-en-Terre – Domaine de Kerioche The Domaine de Kerioche – Terres de France welcomes you in a peaceful and green setting, surrounded by nature. The residence offers fully equipped and comfortable accommodations, ideal for family vacations, friendly getaways, or business seminars in the heart of Brittany. Located near the historic center of Rochefort-en-Terre and the Moulin Neuf Lake, it is the perfect retreat for relaxation and outdoor activities. Places of Interest The Village of Rochefort-en-Terre: Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, known for its flower-adorned houses, local artisans, and medieval charm. Rochefort-en-Terre Castle: A medieval fortress turned into an artistic residence, offering stunning views over the town. Moulin Neuf Lake: A natural area perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, pedal boating, and tree-top adventure courses. La Gacilly: Discover the artisan village and its famous outdoor photography festival. The Carnac Alignments: Experience Brittany’s prehistoric heritage with these impressive megalithic stones, located less than an hour away. Book your stay at Domaine de Kerioche at Rochefort en Terre and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Rochefort-en-Terre and its surroundings!

Enjoy a comfortable stay in a large family house (140m2) located 300m from the sea on a fenced and wooded. The rental sleeps up to 10 people. On the ground floor: a bright living room with lounge / living room and fully equipped kitchen, a double bedroom, a toilet, a bathroom, a garage. Upstairs: 4 bedrooms (2 rooms with twin beds, 1 bedroom with a double bed, 1 bedroom with a 180x200 bed and a cot), a toilet, a shower room. Equipment comfort: nursery equipment, washing machine, dishwasher, freezer, TV, DVD player, internet access. Outside, you can enjoy equipped with a garden terrace, sunbathing, barbecue, swings, table tennis, petanque.

Free car park, suitable for camper-vans.

Sandrine and Christophe have a range of holiday rentals as well as pitches in the shade of 100 to 120 m² on offer. A covered pool which always goes down well with everyone! For your entertainment we have a leisure area including table tennis, TV room, ‘pétanque’ and games room. Other facilities on site include: bar, food, grocery, shop selling cakes/pastries and activities/entertainment during the day for the children and in the evenings for children and adults alike.

The ‘Le Moulin de l’Eclis’ camping site has the advantage of direct access to the beach of La Baie de Pont-Mahé. Aquatic area (1500 m²) with heated water (pools etc… 350 m²). Covered section includes: spa area, pool, paddling pool and games. Outdoor section includes: pool, river with ‘counter-currents’, 2 giant slides/slopes, 1 ‘spiral’ open topped water slide and brand new water park with 62m water slide with inflatable rafts and water cannon. Spacious pitches, dedicated area for motorhomes/campervans, hire of mobile homes and chalets.

Free car park suitable for camper-vans. Located on the edge of the beach.