Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys

Visit Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys, Brittany

Saint Gildas de Rhuys is situated in scenic countryside to the south of the quiet Rhuys peninsula, itself on the southern edge of the Morbihan Gulf.

Saint Gildas Abbatiale church

The main reason to visit Saint-Gildas itself is for the Eglise-Abbatiale - Abbey Church of Saint Gildas. Dating in part from the 11th century it is a very impressive construction that incorporates various architectural styles - the chevet is the oldest part, in roman style. The rest of the abbatiale, including the belltower, was rebuilt in the 18th century, in a copy of the original which collapsed in the 17th century.

Inside, there are several noteworthy highlights including the stained glass windows and an impressive treasury (open to the public summer only)

Across the square from the church are a couple of cafes, while the cemetery has a curious design to its stone entrance, but otherwise the town is quite quiet. There are also several small art galleries, established by artists inspired by the light and scenery to establish themselves here.

Saint Gildas also has a lovely harbour, the Port aux Moines. It is naturally sheltered by rocks and was originally used by the monks of the abbey - hence its name.

The main market day in the town is Sunday. with markets also held on Tuesday and Friday, and every day during summer, plus a popular evening market on Wednesday's during the summer.

Close to Saint-Gildas du Rhuys

While you are visiting Saint Gildas de Rhuys be sure to head a few hundred metres towards the coast then take the short path to the cliffs for lovely coastal views in both directions. There are also a good selection of beaches and much attractive scenery to enjoy in the vicinity.

Numerous opportunities for walking and cycling exist in the vicinity - ask at Saint-Gildas tourist office for suggestions.

Cycling is also very popular in the area and there are a number of cycle routes which are particularly suited to children.

Suggested places to visit near Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Ile-d'Arz 10km; Ile aux Moines 11km; Locmariaquer 11km; Morbihan Gulf 11km; Megaliths of Locmariaquer 12km; Ile Houat 16km; La Trinite sur Mer 17km; Vannes 18km; Carnac Plage 20km; Carnac 20km; Megalithic site of Carnac 20km; Saint-Goustan 21km; Quiberon 21km; Auray 21km; Sainte-Anne d'Auray 24km; La Turballe 30km;

See these places and more on a map at places near Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys

Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys tourism: sights and attractions nearby

Golfe du Morbihan - site of natural beauty (11km) : La Vraie-Croix - ville fleurie 4* (30km) : Jardins de Kerambar’h - remarkable garden (33km) : Marais Salants de Guérande - site of natural beauty (35km) : Massif Dunaire de Gavres-Quiberon - grand site of france (44km) : Briere - regional natural parc (44km) : Parc Victor Chevassu - remarkable garden (48km) : Loire Estuaire - site of natural beauty (59km) :

French version: see Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys (Francais)