Hidden Heritage
In the heart of the townYou have probably heard of the seawater pool, pointe du Sémaphore and Ile de la Comtesse, but if you are looking for a more unique and local experience and want to discover a different side of Saint-Quay-Portrieux, you may like this selection.
Moulin Saint-Michel
Built in 1830, this windmill was operational until 1900, and then transformed into a secondary residence for a Parisian family. In 1971, it became property of the town, and was completely restored in 2009.
The breathtaking view over the Bay of Saint-Brieuc, and the festivals organised in June and September, attract many visitors each year.
- In summer, the windmill is open to visitors on Thursdays.
Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde
Completed in 1890, the construction of this unusual rotunda chapel was funded entirely by private individuals. The chapel is dedicated to Notre-Dame who was worshipped by fishermen and their families. Many votive offerings on display here honor the memory of sailors lost at sea.
- The chapel opens occasionally during summer.
Did you know…?
The dome roof is covered with more than 14000 slates!
Phare du Portrieux
The octagonal phare du Portrieux is one of the oldest lighthouses of France. Originally constructed in 1867 for the World’s Fair, it was dismantled in 1868.
The pieces were taken back to Saint-Quay-Portrieux, where it was erected, before being moved to his current location in 1869. It was painted green in 1909, and the light was fully automated in 1948.
Château de Calan
In 1880, Count of Calan, former consul to the Middle-East, funded the construction of this Moorish-style castle. Inspired by the same Eastern architecture, the second owner extended the property in the 1900s. Harel de la Noe (famous French engineer), and Odorico (renowned mosaic artist in the Art Deco period ) took part in the work. The onion dome appeared at the same period, and the extension work ended in 1904.
It is now private property and a 4-star hotel surrounds the castle.
Fontaine Saint-Quay
Saint-Quay’s fountain (fontaine Saint-Quay) has been visited for its miraculous properties for hundreds of years. It has been claimed that many diseases were able to be cured by the water of the holy fountain, but the spring was particularly known for the healing of wounds.
The present pyramid-shaped structure standing over the well basin dates from 1862 (the previous one was built in 1580). One of the sides of the granite edifice is engraved with the history of the fountain.
- Join a guided walking tour to discover the nearest fountains and wash houses (in July and August).
Chapelle Sainte-Anne
Saint Anne’s chapel was built in 1770. Its funding came from the fishing industry, and locals helped with the construction, providing both skills and equipment. The chapel was bought in 1792, sold to the parish in 1836, and then became town property. It was completely restored in 1929.
Saint Anne is the patron saint of Brittany.
- On the 3rd Sunday of July, the Feast of Saint Anne is celebrated with the « Grand Pardon » beginning with Mass, and followed by a candlelight procession with the statue of Saint Anne.
- The chapel opens occasionally during summer.
Parc des druides
Located in Kertugal, this park has long oozed magic. Mystery surrounds the purpose of the huge megalith stones, believed to be dolmens, since tumulus and prehistoric tools were found. Today, the park continues to have a role as a sacred place of cultural significance, as it could have been used by Celtic Druids to host ceremonies and commemorations.
- Free access
Parc des druides
Chapelle Sainte-Anne
Fontaine Saint-Quay
Château de Calan
Phare du Portrieux
Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde
