Locronan is one of the most beautiful villages in France. You will quickly understand why when you discover this Celtic gem.

A land of inspiration for artists

Classified as a Historic Monument since 1924, Locronan is one of the most prestigious sites in Brittany, due to its architectural quality. Many craftsmen have settled there. Located on a mountain, in an exceptional natural setting 5km from the sea, Locronan is also the starting point for many hiking and mountain biking circuits. A true land of inspiration for artists, painters, writers, sculptors or filmmakers, the charm of this little Breton setting never leaves you indifferent.

The origin of the village

The Celts chose this site to create a nemeton, a sacred route dotted with stations symbolizing the 12 months of the year. In the 6th century Saint Ronan Christianizes the place and gives birth to the city. The one that is now called Locronan gains in richness and beauty from the 14th century, thanks to the weaving of sailcloth. The trade established with all the great fleets builds fortunes and harmonious houses of granite. Walls that have remained faithful to their origins.

Locronan seduces filmmakers in search of authenticity

Time seems to stand still in the square and in the old streets. This heritage of untouched beauty seduces filmmakers in search of authenticity. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come to Locronan every year, a real movie set. The facilities intended to welcome visitors ensure that the quality of the heritage is preserved. In summer, the city is yours in the caressing light of the morning, which gilds the old stones. Elegant houses with sculpted skylights surround the square. The Saint-Ronan Church and the Pénity chapel, side by side, form a common facade, without mixing the gargoyles. In the nave, the pulpit and the main stained glass window retrace several religious episodes. The surrounding streets are also lined with charming buildings. To preserve the authenticity of the historic heart, cars remain outside and traditional signs mark the shops. Among them, bakeries make formidable kouign-Amann.

Traditional rituals

The ritual of the “L’arbre de Mai” means that, each Saturday preceding the first Sunday of May, the young girls and boys of Locronan aged 19 in the year must bring back a beech tree from the forest and plant it at the only strength of arms in the main square of the city. On St. Jean’s Eve or the nearest weekend, young people must cut down the tree with a “harpoon“, a two-handled saw. The tree then cut is sold at auction, while the branches are used to fuel the stake of Saint Jean. Coming from the tradition of conscripts, this ritual would be a practice of Celtic origin now listed in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of France.