The Carnac Dolmens

The Dolmen of Mané-Kerioned, also known as the Hill of the Three Dolmens, is the most interesting site to explore if you’re planning to visit the dolmens of Carnac.

This site is a distinctive ancient mound that houses three dolmens arranged at different levels.

The tallest one is fully exposed, the second one is situated midway, while the third one is buried in the ground and accessible through a paved gallery.

In Carnac traditions, Mané-Kerioned is nicknamed the “mountain of the dwarves”, where, according to local legends, korrigans, those well-known legendary beings of Breton folklore, are said to have taken up residence.

The Dolmen of Kériaval, located about 300 meters east of the Dolmen of Mané-Kerioned, is an imposing prehistoric monument housing three burial chambers.

The site is classified as a historical monument, showcasing its archaeological value and the interest of including it in your visit to Carnac.

The archaeological sites of Mané-Kerioned and Keriaval are just a few hundred meters apart. However, you’ll need to cross the D768 road that connects Auray to Plouharnel. This proximity allows you to explore both Neolithic sites in a single visit, hitting two birds with one stone!

The Dolmen of Kermario, located at the beginning of the Kermario alignments, is undoubtedly the most visited dolmen in Carnac, particularly due to its location along the alignments route. However, direct access to the dolmen is restricted by barriers, limiting observation to the exterior.

A integral part of the visit to the alignments and menhirs of Carnac, the Dolmen of Kermario is a burial site dating back to the Neolithic period and is listed among the historical monuments of Carnac.

The Dolmen of Roch Feutet is a dolmen located on the outskirts of Carnac, bordering La Trinité-sur-Mer. It’s a hidden dolmen, isolated amidst fields, which certainly deserves a visit.

Beneath the three cover slabs, bones, as well as weapons and tools dating back to the Neolithic period, were discovered. Though less known than some other sites, it attests to the historical richness of the region. Its remote location also offers a peaceful and authentic atmosphere, providing a dive into the past away from the tourist hustle and bustle.

The Dolmen of Carnac Beach is both an iconic and essential monument of the town of Carnac. It’s located just a few meters from the largest beach in Carnac and the tourist streets. A monument modest in its dimensions, yet revealing the charm of the small seaside resort.

This dolmen also has a unique feature. Dolmens are generally situated on heights, like the Carnac Tumulus that overlooks the town. Carnac Beach, on the other hand, is now situated in an area below sea level. The Dolmen of Carnac Beach is thus the only dolmen that was not built at an elevated point.

The Dolmen of Beaumer, classified as a historical monument, is situated in the middle of the path and the eponymous location: Beaumer. It’s a small dolmen consisting of four pillars topped with a large granite slab.

Its proximity to vacation spots, including several campsites in Carnac, as well as its discreet charm, make it a popular attraction for visitors to the region. The Dolmen of Beaumer is among the favorite souvenir photos for tourists on vacation in Carnac.

The Dolmen of La Madeleine is an isolated megalithic site located near the village of Penhoët. It’s situated in the middle of an agricultural field, making its access somewhat challenging. Unfortunately, the Dolmen of La Madeleine has succumbed to the effects of time, with its massive covering slab having collapsed onto its pillars.

The site of La Madeleine remains a charming environment to discover, with a small chapel bearing the same name and a fountain with healing powers according to local legends, located less than 100 meters from the megalithic site. This bucolic setting undoubtedly deserves a detour and a glance.

The Dolmen of Cruz Menquen is located not far from the town of Carnac. It has the particularity of being the only dolmen adorned with a stone cross. The Dolmen of Cruz Menquen has long been part of local rituals and traditions; fertility virtues were attributed to the dolmen. Direct contact with the stone is supposed to increase fertility.

The Dolmen of Kerroch is located on the Pô road, also known as the road of oyster farmers. The weight of the years has caused its covering slab to collapse, but the dolmen has managed to retain its unique charm.

Take the opportunity to enhance your visit to this site with a tasting of fresh oysters from local producers. This place, blending historical heritage and culinary heritage, offers an authentic and traditional experience of the Carnac region.

The Dolmen of Kerlescan is a dolmen that marks the end of the Kerlescan alignments and the beginning of the Petit Ménec alignments. The monument is a dolmen with a corridor or a former covered alley, which must have been previously covered by a tumulus similar to the Tumulus of Saint-Michel.

Unfortunately, the Kerlescan site has been largely destroyed and plundered of its stones. Despite an attempted restoration, the Dolmen of Kerlescan now has limited visual interest.