Île Saint-Riom Chapel
A private island gem with ancient monastery ruins and a chapel featuring rare diffraction glass art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Île Saint-Riom Chapel
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A private island gem with ancient monastery ruins and a chapel featuring rare diffraction glass art.
"An island gem with a restored chapel featuring unique glass techniques and ancient ruins."
Respect Private Property
This is a working farm. Always be respectful of the land and its owners. :pray:
Inquire About Access
Contact the farmers beforehand to understand visiting possibilities and their schedule. :phone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Restored Chapel
Île Saint-Riom
Marvel at the unique diffraction glass techniques in the beautifully restored chapel.
Monastery Ruins
Île Saint-Riom
Discover the ancient ruins of chapels and calvaries from the 10th to 12th centuries.
Island Potato Farms
Île Saint-Riom
See the unique agricultural landscape where special potatoes are cultivated using traditional methods.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access & Farming
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect Private Property
This is a working farm. Always be respectful of the land and its owners. :pray:
Inquire About Access
Contact the farmers beforehand to understand visiting possibilities and their schedule. :phone:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Photography Opportunities
Capture the unique glass art and the rugged island beauty. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect Private Property
This is a working farm. Always be respectful of the land and its owners. :pray:
Inquire About Access
Contact the farmers beforehand to understand visiting possibilities and their schedule. :phone:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Photography Opportunities
Capture the unique glass art and the rugged island beauty. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Île Saint-Riom as an extraordinary private island gem, highlighting the well-kept monastery ruins and the unique diffraction glass in the restored chapel. The island's special potato cultivation also adds to its distinct charm. Access can be challenging due to its private nature.
"Extraordinary private owned island with well kept Monastery which is worth while visiting. Unique glass techniques used in the restored chapel, masterpieces only known to one person in the France, difracton glass."
Paul FLAD - EDWARDS
"Saint-Riom Island is a private island off the coast of Paimpol. Monks and hermits inhabited it from the 10th to 12th centuries; only the ruins of chapels and calvaries, along with outbuildings and fishponds, remain today.
The island is said to belong to Patrice Allain-Dupré, but is currently farmed by Adrien Godefroy.
A very tasty potato is now grown on this small island (800 meters long and 400 meters wide). Because the island is rocky, all the relatively flat plots of land, about 4 hectares (out of the island's total land area of 9 hectares), are used for potato gardens. These gardens are cultivated with a tractor and one horse. Approximately 100 tons of potatoes are harvested annually, supplied to restaurants and the local supermarket."
Margo Mal
"The island of Saint-Riom with the magnificent "Chapelle de la Trinité" in the foreground...!!"
Yannick Le Cornec
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Île Saint-Riom is a private island and access is not guaranteed. It's best to inquire with the current farmers or landowners about potential visiting arrangements. The island is located south of Bréhat Island, about 1.5 km from the tip of Pors Even.
There is no public transport directly to Île Saint-Riom as it is a private island. Access would likely require private boat arrangements or specific permission from the landowners.
Visiting Île Saint-Riom as a day trip is possible but depends entirely on the availability and willingness of the private owners/farmers. It's crucial to arrange this in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As Île Saint-Riom is a private island, there are no official tickets or entry fees. Access is by permission only, so you'll need to arrange your visit directly with the landowners.
There are no set opening hours for Île Saint-Riom as it is privately owned and farmed. Visiting times are subject to the discretion of the farmers and landowners.
No, there is no admission fee. However, access is restricted and requires prior arrangement with the private owners.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the ruins of a 10th-12th century monastery, including chapels and calvaries, as well as the unique restored chapel with diffraction glass. The island is also known for its potato farms.
The chapel features unique diffraction glass techniques, described as masterpieces known to very few in France. This makes the restored chapel a significant artistic and historical site.
The island is primarily used for potato farming. They cultivate a special, tasty potato using a tractor and a horse, harvesting about 100 tons annually.
The island is small (800 meters long) and rocky. While there are areas for walking, it's advisable to wear sturdy shoes due to the terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
The restored chapel with its unique glass is a prime spot. Also, capture the ancient monastery ruins and the picturesque potato fields against the coastal backdrop.
Photography rules inside the chapel may vary. It's best to inquire with the caretakers or landowners upon arrival to ensure you are following any guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs
Beyond the ruins, the restored chapel itself is a historical artifact, showcasing rare diffraction glass techniques. This unique artistic element adds another layer to the island's historical narrative, making it a compelling destination for anyone interested in the intersection of history, art, and architecture.
Art and Architecture Enthusiasts
Appreciating the craftsmanship involved in both the ancient ruins and the modern restoration offers a rich experience. The island's setting also provides a picturesque backdrop for viewing these architectural and artistic elements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Diffraction Glass
Visitors can expect to see light play and color patterns that are distinct from traditional stained glass. The restoration efforts have preserved this unique aspect, making the chapel a point of interest for art enthusiasts and those seeking unusual visual experiences. It's a testament to specialized craftsmanship that has been carefully maintained on this small island.
Island Life: Farming and History
This blend of historical remnants and ongoing agricultural activity gives the island a unique character. Visitors, if granted access, can witness the juxtaposition of ancient ruins and modern farming practices. The annual harvest of approximately 100 tons of potatoes supplies local restaurants and supermarkets, showcasing the island's productive role.
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