Locmariaquer Megaliths - Image 1
1 / 10

Locmariaquer Megaliths

4.2
·2k reviews·Locmariaquer, France

Explore Brittany's ancient past at Locmariaquer, home to colossal megaliths and mysterious Neolithic tombs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Locmariaquer Megaliths - Image 1

Locmariaquer Megaliths

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Brittany's ancient past at Locmariaquer, home to colossal megaliths and mysterious Neolithic tombs.

4.2
(2k reviews)

"An unmissable place to visit, offering a leisurely 90 minutes soaking up antiquity."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Guided Tours

Join a free guided tour for insightful context; they're surprisingly engaging for all ages!

🎟️ Multi-Site Tickets

One ticket covers multiple megalithic sites – great value!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Menhir

The Grand Menhir

Locmariaquer

The tallest menhir in prehistoric Western Europe, a colossal stone standing at an impressive height.

Table des Marchands

Table des Marchands

Locmariaquer

A Neolithic tomb with fascinating carved stones, now housed within a protective cairn.

Tumulus of Er Grah

Tumulus of Er Grah

Locmariaquer

An ancient funerary monument with distinctive long, added arms, creating a unique architectural form.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Avoid the midday rush, especially during peak season. Arriving early or later in the afternoon can offer a more serene experience. Consider the French 'long lunch' closures, as some visitor centers might shut down between 1-2 PM.Reddit

Ticket Value

A single ticket often grants access to multiple megalithic sites in the area, making it a fantastic bargain. Look out for free entry for those under 25.Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning or late afternoon
Why
Beat the crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Off-season
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Osirion is hands down my favourite Ancient Egypt site. Who built this???? And why???? #ancientegypt #megalithic #mystery #ancienthistory
@funnyoldeworld
217.5K likes • 2.1M views

🎯 Free Guided Tours

Join a free guided tour for insightful context; they're surprisingly engaging for all ages! Reddit

🎟️ Multi-Site Tickets

One ticket covers multiple megalithic sites – great value! Reddit

𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗬 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗗 𝗔𝗦 𝗪𝗘 𝗗𝗥𝗢𝗣 𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗩𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗢𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗟 𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗗 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗥𝗜𝗧🔥 ❇️ 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗦𝗘 𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗪𝗛𝗢 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗟 𝗠𝗜𝗥𝗥𝗢𝗥 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗜𝗠𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧 🙏✝️🏥 📌𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗡 𝗢𝗡 𝗣𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗘𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗦 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗡 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗩𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗢𝗦 𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗣𝗢𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗗📣🔔🔔 #christiantiktok #christianmessage #christian #gospel #jesus #faith #christianity #foryoupage❤️❤️#evangkesienaesiri #revkesienaesiri #paulkehin...
@paul_kehinde
134.5K likes • 824.5K views
Nejvyšší menhir světa? 22 metrů s 350 tun! #vylet #cestovani #turistika #evropa #francie #zajimavosti #menhir #historie #tajemstvi #paranormal #bretagne
ava.brozova
244 likes • 8.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore at Your Pace

Wander freely after the visitor center movie; no time limits except closing. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Visitor centers usually offer convenient free parking. Reddit

Table des Marchand #pencil #sketch #neolithic #tomb #brittany #ancient #bretagne #artist #illustrator #christiansloanhall
christian_sloan_hall
210 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Guided Tours

Join a free guided tour for insightful context; they're surprisingly engaging for all ages! Reddit

🎟️ Multi-Site Tickets

One ticket covers multiple megalithic sites – great value! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore at Your Pace

Wander freely after the visitor center movie; no time limits except closing. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Visitor centers usually offer convenient free parking. Reddit

☀️ Prepare for Sun

Bring water and sun protection, as much of the site is exposed. :sunwithface:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the Locmariaquer Megaliths as a beautiful and iconic prehistoric site in Brittany, highlighting the value of the ticket and the engaging free guided tours. While some find the site small with just a few rocks, most agree it's a remarkable and unmissable historical experience, especially when considering the low cost and the impressive scale of the ancient monuments.

"One of the most beautiful and iconic prehistoric sites of Brittany. Beautiful and well preserved, with free tour guides every hour. Free parking available nearby."

Margot

"Small Site with a few rocks, personally I didnt find it very interesting. If you are already in the area it could be worth a visit.
Pros are free parking, free entry for under 25 and friendly staff."

Henry

"We watched the 10 minute movie in the museum and then walked around the megaliths. The movie had earphones which could be set to a language of your choice. The site is remarkable. We went on a holiday so there was demonstrations of life by a man in period clothes and showing crafts."

Debbie Hodge

What People Like

Iconic prehistoric site
Great value ticket
Engaging free tours

What People Dislike

Site feels small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Locmariaquer Megaliths are located in Brittany, France. Driving is the most common way to reach the site, with visitor centers offering free parking.Reddit Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended if you're not driving.

Yes, there is free parking available at the visitor centers for the Locmariaquer Megaliths, which is very convenient for visitors arriving by car.Reddit

While driving is easiest, it's possible to visit via public transport, though it may require more planning. Check local bus routes from nearby towns like Vannes or Auray. Some visitors have noted that visitor centers might close for lunch.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are very reasonably priced, often around 6 euros, and can grant access to multiple megalithic sites in the region, offering excellent value.Reddit There are often discounts or free entry for visitors under 25.Reddit

Yes, free guided tours are typically offered hourly at the Locmariaquer Megaliths. These tours are highly recommended for understanding the history and significance of the sites.Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check the official website or visitor center information. Be aware that some facilities, like visitor centers, might close for a lunch break, typically between 1 PM and 2 PM.Reddit

While not always explicitly stated, purchasing tickets at the visitor center upon arrival is common. It's worth checking the official website for any online booking options, especially during peak season.

Generally, a single ticket provides access to the main megalithic sites. The visitor center and surrounding areas are usually accessible, but specific monuments might require a ticket.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The site features several impressive megalithic structures, including the colossal Grand Menhir, the Table des Marchands (a dolmen within a cairn), and the Tumulus of Er Grah.Instagram+4 You can also see the remnants of the Grand Menhir brisé.Instagram+2

You can spend anywhere from 90 minutes to several hours exploring the sites, depending on your interest level and whether you join a guided tour or watch the interpretive video.Reddit Many visitors take their time to soak in the atmosphere.

Yes, the sites can be very engaging for children, especially with the guided tours that often involve them.Reddit The sheer scale of the stones and the mysteries surrounding them can spark their imagination.

Many visitors watch the introductory film at the visitor center, which often has multilingual headphones,Reddit and then explore the sites independently or join a guided tour.Reddit Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain.

Photography is generally allowed at the Locmariaquer Megaliths. The dramatic stone structures and the coastal scenery offer fantastic photo opportunities.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The town of Locmariaquer itself offers various dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. It's also a good idea to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the historical surroundings, especially if you're visiting during a lunch closure.Reddit

While there aren't specific restrictions mentioned, it's generally good practice to be mindful of the historical site. Enjoying a picnic in designated areas or before/after your visit is usually fine.

📸 📸 Photography

The Grand Menhir, especially its broken pieces, offers dramatic shots.Instagram+1 The Table des Marchands with its carved stones is also a highlight.Instagram+1 The vastness of the Tumulus of Er Grah provides a sense of scale.Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and archaeological sites to protect them and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the textures of the stones. Golden hour can be particularly stunning for capturing the ancient atmosphere.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Locmariaquer Megaliths can be a surprisingly engaging experience for families. The sheer size of the stones, like the Grand Menhir, is awe-inspiring for children, sparking their imagination about how they were moved.TikTok+1 The free guided tours are particularly beneficial for families, as guides are often skilled at making the history interactive and interesting for younger visitors, ensuring they don't find it boring.Reddit The Table des Marchands with its carved stones can also be a point of fascination, like a real-life treasure hunt for ancient symbols.

Practical tips for families include bringing plenty of water and sun protection, as the sites are largely exposed. Comfortable shoes are essential for navigating the grounds. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak crowds and the midday heat. The interpretive video at the visitor center can also serve as a good primer to get kids excited about what they're about to see.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Locmariaquer Megaliths are an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers. The ticket price is a significant bargain, often around 6 euros, and it typically includes access to multiple impressive megalithic sites in the vicinity.Reddit This multi-site access maximizes the value of your ticket. Furthermore, free parking is usually available at the visitor centers, saving on transportation costs.Reddit

To further enhance a budget trip, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, or planning a picnic to enjoy on-site, rather than relying on more expensive dining options. The free guided tours are a fantastic way to gain in-depth knowledge without any extra cost, making the experience rich and educational. Visiting during the shoulder seasons can also mean fewer crowds and potentially lower accommodation prices in the surrounding areas.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mystery of the Megaliths

The Locmariaquer Megaliths are a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of Neolithic peoples. The Grand Menhir, once standing at an estimated 18 meters tall and weighing over 300 tons, is a staggering feat of engineering.Instagram+1 Its sheer size and the mystery surrounding its erection and eventual breakage continue to fascinate visitors and archaeologists alike.TikTok+1 The site raises profound questions about how these massive stones were quarried, transported, and erected with the tools available thousands of years ago.TikTok+1

Beyond the Grand Menhir, the Table des Marchands offers a glimpse into funerary practices. This dolmen, now encased in a modern cairn for preservation, features intricate carvings on its rear stone and ceiling, depicting scenes that hint at the beliefs and daily life of its creators.Instagram+1 The Tumulus of Er Grah, another significant burial monument, is notable for its impressive length and the distinctive 'arms' added during its construction, stretching to about 140 meters in total.Instagram These structures collectively paint a picture of a complex society with sophisticated understanding of astronomy, engineering, and ritual.

Many visitors are struck by the sheer scale and the enduring enigma of these ancient monuments. The free guided tours are highly recommended, as they provide invaluable context and bring the history to life, often engaging visitors with stories and theories about the builders and their purpose.Reddit The experience is often described as stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to a distant past that continues to spark wonder and debate.TikTok+1

Navigating the Sites and Visitor Experience

Visiting the Locmariaquer Megaliths is a straightforward yet deeply rewarding experience. The visitor center serves as the primary point of entry, offering essential information, an interpretive video, and ticket sales. The video, often available with multilingual headphones, provides a crucial introduction to the history and significance of the megaliths, setting the stage for your exploration.Reddit It's a good idea to watch this before heading out to the monuments themselves.

The sites are spread out, and while a single ticket often covers multiple locations, it's important to be prepared for walking. Comfortable footwear is a must, as the terrain can be uneven. The Grand Menhir brisé (broken grand menhir) is a dramatic sight, with its massive fragments lying where they fell.Instagram+2 Nearby, the Table des Marchands offers a more enclosed experience within its protective cairn, allowing a close look at the carved stones.Instagram+1 The Tumulus of Er Grah is a vast, elongated structure that speaks to the monumental efforts undertaken for burial rituals.Instagram

Many visitors highlight the value of the free guided tours offered at the site. These tours are not only informative but also often very engaging, making the ancient history accessible and exciting for all ages.Reddit The guides share fascinating insights and theories, enhancing the overall understanding and appreciation of the megaliths. Remember to check for potential lunch closures at the visitor center, as French 'long lunch' traditions can affect operating hours.Reddit

You may also like