When our friends from the US were visiting in May, we took a road trip to the Loire Valley and then to see the Carnac Stones in Brittany. The stones are quite an amazing site to see. They are spread over several kilometers and are often referred to as France’s Stonehenge. Numbering over 3,000 in total, the stones consist of alignments, dolmens (tombs), tumuli (mounds), and menhirs (single stones).
These granite stones date back to sometime between 4500 – 3300 BC, making them older than Stonehenge. It is not known why the stones were placed as they are, but as you can imagine, there are many theories including, religious, ceremonial, and astronomical. My favorite is one that believes the stones were once an invading Roman army, and the wizard Merlin turned them into stones.
We even saw some in a traffic circle in Carnac.
There are paths that lead through the area that allow you to see the stones up close. One such path will take you to the Tumulus of Saint-Michel which dates back to possibly as early as 5000 BC.
When you first approach the tumulus, you’ll see some very steep stairs leading up to the top along with a warning sign. On the other side of the tumulus, there’s a gentle path that leads to the top, but of course, always the rebel, theTravelsketcher took the stairs.
The objects found at the tomb (pottery, jewelry, etc.) can be seen at the Musée de Préhistorie in Carnac.
You’ll work up an appetite with all that hiking and climbing, so head to Le Patio in Carnac for a delicious meal.
Or to Le Britannia in La Trinité-sur-Mer for excellent seafood.
The stones became a French Historic Monument in 1889. Before then, they were often moved by farmers or used as ovens or shelters for animals.
Both Carnac and La Trinité-sur-Mer are pretty towns with lots of shops, restaurants, and activities.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Carnac and seeing the stones. I highly recommend a visit to the area if you find yourself in France.
As always, please leave a message, I would love to hear from you.
Wishing you grand adventures,
Tricia
Travels Through My Lens 
First time for us in Bretagne, enjoyed it a lot, thanks for capturing it for us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s quite an intriguing story about the stones – makes one wonders 🤔.
Yes, I almost thought the sheep were stones – good camouflage! Oh, and I like your colourful plates – your food looks really delicious!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it does. We had a lot of fun coming up with different theories after a little wine. 😊 We had some really great meals there too. Thanks for your comments!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I prefer the Merlin legend too. Interesting artifacts and that you saw them in random places. 😊 Maggie
LikeLiked by 1 person
Agreed; it’s a fun theory. Thanks for reading and commenting!
LikeLike
I had no idea that these stones also existed in France; I’d assumed they were exclusive to the UK! Never heard of them despite visiting Bretagne, but very fascinating and worth seeing. Glad you’re enjoying your time in the region!
LikeLiked by 1 person
We had no idea either until our friend told us about them. It’s a fun and interesting place to visit. Thanks for your comment!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow – I’d heard of the stones but didn’t realise they were older than Stonehenge, that’s amazing. And that food looks INCREDIBLE. I’m on my way 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I thought so too! And they are so interesting too. The food was really delicious; but then, it’s France! Thanks for your comment!
LikeLike
Such beautiful photos–and so very interesting about the stones! My favorite photo in this posting is the one fo the path beneath the trees. Who knows where it may lead..? (Well, okay, you told us) I think it’s wonderful that you and Terry are both willing to look down and take the various paths that you come across. I think that picture encapsulates your whole grand adventure.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much Shirley, I love your thoughtful comments.
LikeLike
so interesting to read on the stones! I had never heard of this other Stonehenge. Definitely adding that to my to see list 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
We thought so too. Thanks for your reading and commenting!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your images capture the stones perfectly. What a grand adventure that was, and so unplanned. Thank you Tim! Thank you ancient pre-Roman Frenchmen!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, thanks to Tim for mentioning it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wish I could find myself in France! Always would have liked to go there but alas, I absolutely HATE to fly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I get that; flying can be very stressful. Well, there is a nonstop flight on Delta from Seattle to Paris. You could get it over in one flight, then take trains once you got here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, but not gonna happen! 🚫✈️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for posting this item. It took me back 30 years when I visited this absolutely MAGICAL place with my young family, travelling through France in our camper van. I started a novel recently about the building of Chartres Cathedral, which story starts with Druids coming from the Carnac Stones region and entering the Great and Holy Open Place in the dark forest of the Carnuts. Both regions having this millenia old history. Your post points out the sinificance of Carnac very well. Thanks again. 🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for your comment, I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Your book sounds interesting; I hope to have the opportunity to read it when it’s completed.
LikeLike