Carnac: World Heritage, megaliths and coastal landscapes
Accommodation in Carnac
Carnac brings together the alignments, structures spanning several centuries and maritime landscapes on the Bay of Quiberon. The “Megaliths of Carnac and of the shores of Morbihan” were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2025. When looking for a hotel in Carnac, you can plan your trip around whether prehistory, architecture, landscapes or water-based activities are your priority.
Alignments and World Heritage
The Carnac Alignments are the largest megalithic site of their kind in the world and are considered an important site of European prehistory. The footpath around the sites is freely accessible. As conditions may change temporarily, check before your visit.
The Carnac Prehistory Museum is the first museum in the world dedicated to megalithism. You can check visiting times for guided tours of the Carnac Alignments. Reservations can be made online; tickets are also available at the Maison des mégalithes. Check times and booking arrangements again before your trip.
The Saint-Michel Tumulus
The Saint-Michel Tumulus was built around 4500 BC and is one of the largest tumuli in Europe. It is about 10 metres high, 125 metres long and 60 metres wide: its length is considerably greater than its height. The summit is home to the Saint-Michel Chapel and a 16th-century calvary. An orientation table offers panoramic views of the Bay of Quiberon, Belle-ĂŽle-en-Mer and the Rhuys Peninsula. Access conditions may vary; check them before your visit.
Churches and Breton architecture
Saint-Cornély Church was built in the 17th century and is considered one of the finest Renaissance buildings in Morbihan. Saint Colomban Chapel, by contrast, dates from the late 16th century and was built in the Flamboyant Gothic style. The two buildings offer distinct architectural and historical highlights: Renaissance here, late Gothic forms there.
In the village of Saint-Colomban, Carnac preserves architecture typical of Breton villages, with granite houses and slate roofs dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. While the church and chapel draw attention to individual religious buildings, here it is the materials and rooftops that shape the village’s appearance.
Nature and activities on the bay
Anse du PĂ´ lies in the heart of the Bay of Quiberon. The former small harbour attracts many birds throughout the year; the number you can see varies by season. This coastal spot therefore offers a different focus from the prehistoric sites and historic buildings.
Activities available in Carnac include sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, wing foiling, diving, kitesurfing and boat hire. The options cover a range of watersports and boating experiences. Offerings, operating hours and weather-dependent availability may change; check with providers for the conditions during your trip.
Discover more destinations: Gourin, Noyalo, Plougoumelen, Guer, Cadouarn, Lignol, Brandivy, Quelneuc.
Return to the main travel overview: Morbihan.
