About Carnac Stones
Around Carnac more than 3,000 menhirs stand in rows that stretch for kilometres across heath and woodland. The main alignments of Ménec, Kermario and Kerlescan were raised by Neolithic communities, with stones generally rising in height toward one end. Their purpose remains a mystery: astronomical observatory, processional way, territorial marker or ritual landscape honoring ancestors.
Local legend says the stones are Roman soldiers turned to stone by Saint Cornély, now patron of horned cattle in the village church. The landscape also includes dolmens and tumuli such as the Saint-Michel tumulus, crowned by a chapel. Fenced areas protect the stones in summer, but in winter visitors may walk freely in parts of the alignments.
What to see
- Ménec alignments
- Kermario alignments and viewing tower
- Kerlescan alignments
- Saint-Michel tumulus
- Museum of Prehistory in Carnac
Visiting Carnac Stones: practical guide
- Best time
- October to March for free access; summer for guided tours
- Hours
- Maison des Mégalithes usually 9:30 to 19:00 in summer, shorter in winter
- Entry
- Free outside summer; guided tours about 11 EUR
- Dress code
- Walking shoes and windproof jacket
- Nearest airport
- Lorient Bretagne Sud Airport (LRT), 40 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Rent a bike to link the alignments
- Visit at dusk for long shadows
- Guided visits are needed to enter fenced areas in summer
Festivals and special days
- Pardon of Saint Cornély (mid September)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Prehistoric Religion tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Book timed tickets for popular sites like Stonehenge and Newgrange.
- Do not touch cave walls; original painted caves are mostly closed to protect them.
- Visit replica caves such as Lascaux IV and Chauvet 2 for close views.
- Never climb or chip megaliths.
- Respect modern pagan gatherings at solstices and follow site rules.
- Stay on paths around burial mounds and fragile earthworks.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Carnac Stones?
Carnac Stones is in Carnac, Brittany, France, Europe. GPS coordinates: 47.5958, -3.0847. The nearest airport is Lorient Bretagne Sud Airport (LRT), 40 km.
What is the best time to visit Carnac Stones?
October to March for free access; summer for guided tours
Is there an entry fee for Carnac Stones?
Free outside summer; guided tours about 11 EUR Opening hours: Maison des Mégalithes usually 9:30 to 19:00 in summer, shorter in winter
What should I wear when visiting Carnac Stones?
Walking shoes and windproof jacket
Which religion is Carnac Stones sacred to?
Carnac Stones is sacred to Prehistoric Religion. Archaeological ruins. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
