Charming little town in Morbihan, in the Brittany region, Campénéac takes place about sixty kilometers from the very attractive town of Vannes, in the heart of the Armorican Massif. It is located not far from Ploërmel and the mysterious forest of Brocéliande.
Former Gallo-Roman fundus, the municipality of Campénéac mainly developed during the Middle Ages, depending at the time of the parish of Saint-Malo. Officially erected as a town at the end of the 18th century, following the various reforms linked to the French Revolution, it became famous in history by becoming the birthplace, at the beginning of the 17th century, of Armelle Nicolas, a servant which was the object of a cult until the beginning of the 20th century for its piety and its mystical ecstasies.
The Breton city continues to attract visitors today thanks to its architectural heritage but also its proximity to the Brocéliande forest and all the legends it contains.
Full of charm, the town of Campénéac has an important religious heritage to discover during a stay in the region. You will be able to admire the abbey of Joie-Notre-Dame founded in the 20th century, in the 1950s, on the edge of the Brocéliande forest, before going to the Saint-Jean chapel. Listed as an historic monument, this private Romanesque-style building was built in the 13th century by the Knights of the Order of the Temple, like its adjoining priory. Largely altered in the 17th century, it takes the form of a rectangular plan with a semi-circular apse. Not far away, it is difficult to miss the fountain dedicated to Saint John, which was the site of a procession in June.
More recent, the Church of the Nativity of the Most Holy Virgin does not lack attractions either. Built in the 19th century on the remains of an older building, it reveals even more elements of the original church, such as the western porch, pillars and arches. Inside, it is possible to admire a preaching chair seven meters high, the tank of which has the particularity of being supported by a kneeling demon. It is also dominated by a statue of the Archangel Saint Michael slaying the dragon and presents four angels designating the four evangelists. The church also has an exhibition of the Holy Face from the second half of the 19th century in polychrome wood. The latter, more than 2.50 meters high, is surrounded by the instruments of the Passion.
Passing through Campénéac, do not fail to admire the exterior of the Château de Trecesson. Built in the 15th century, this private property classified as an historic monument is one of the most impressive castles in the region. Medieval in appearance, it notably has large red schist walls which are reflected harmoniously in the waters of the surrounding pond. Even today, several local legends are linked to this mystical place like its white lady or its ghost players.
While strolling in the town and its surroundings, you can also discover the exteriors of the château de la Touche-Larcher, a neo-Gothic building from the 16th century completely redone in the 19th century, or even browse the various marked hiking trails accessible on foot or by bike.
Concerts are offered in June during the Tapette Fest festival.
In July, the municipal lake hosts the Fête d'Antan with in particular its demonstrations of old trades, its festive meal, shows and other activities for all ages.
In mid-July, Campénéac offers its famous fireworks display on the occasion of the national holiday.
A Christmas market takes place at the end of the year.