No, you’re not dreaming, you’re not on Easter Island, you’re in Brittany, on the site of a crazy project: the Valley of the Saints.
It’s in the heart of Finistère, on the heights of Carnoët, that this project comes to life: to create a group of 1,000 megalithic statues representing Breton saints on a site open all year round to visitors free of charge.
An audacious gamble initiated in 2008 by philosopher Philippe Abjean, current director Sébastien Minguy and lawyer Philippe Hajas, all passionate about the history and culture of the region.
A hymn to Brittany
Each statue, sculpted from Breton granite, tells the story of a saint, often a legendary figure who left his mark on Brittany. From Saint-Yves, patron saint of lawyers, to Saint-Gildas, monk and hermit, to Sainte-Anne, mother of the Virgin Mary, you’ll discover the richness of Brittany’s heritage. Each one measures between 3 and 5 metres in height and weighs 25 tonnes.
An enchanting stroll
Beyond the beauty of the statues, it’s the atmosphere that reigns in the Valley of the Saints that will captivate you. Stroll along this hillside overlooking the Poher valley, and admire these stone giants that seem to watch over the region. The panoramic views from Carnoët take in the rolling Poher countryside, the Roc’h Tredudon antenna, the Arrée peaks and the Fréau forest. The surrounding nature, rich in flora and fauna, adds to the magic of the place.
For the whole family
Whether you’re with family or friends, the Vallée des Saints is an original destination for an unforgettable stay in Brittany. The site is accessible free of charge all year round (only the parking lot is subject to a charge) and offers a number of points of interest: feudal motte, small chapel, opportunity to see the sculptors at work depending on the season, possibility of a guided tour.
The statues are scattered over an 8-hectare natural site, offering visitors a pleasant stroll. Even for those who don’t do much walking, it’s possible to see many of the statues within a small area. Wheelchair users can also enjoy the Valley of the Saints thanks to a dirt path that circles the site.
From mid-April to October, the site offers a no-reservation fast-food service based on local produce (open daily from 11:30 am).
Where can I find the list of saints?
The list of saints in the Valley of the Saints, which currently boasts 184 statues, is now accessible thanks to the new “Make the statues talk” app. Previously, visitors had three options for exploring the site: a guided tour, a workshop with a sculptor or a self-guided walk with a souvenir book, available from the site store.
Today, this fourth option offers an interactive and educational experience. The Valley of the Saints is more than just an open-air museum; it’s a place of discovery and learning for all ages, with educational events and workshops organized throughout the year.
How long does it take to visit the Valley of the Saints?
Allow around two hours on site to wander among these stone giants. You can also plan to picnic on site. The site is open every day, all year round, 24 hours a day.
What to see and do in the Valley of the Saints
La Vallée des Saints is close to many of Finistère’s must-see tourist attractions. You can take advantage of your stay to discover the charms of Carhaix, and the “Vorgium” dedicated to the town’s Roman history (15 min away by car), or the Château de Trevarez in Saint Goazec, on the way down to Camping Les Saules.
Practical information
Address: Lieu-dit Quénéquillec, 29270 Carnoët
Opening hours: Open all year round, 24/7
Prices: Free access, Paid parking: 9€ (Payment by credit card only at the exit terminal).
Dogs are welcome on site, provided they are kept on a leash.
For further information: https: //www.lavalleedessaints.com/
