Carnac & Saint-Goustan Shore Excursion from Lorient

Ancient stones meet American Revolution history - Walk where Benjamin Franklin stepped ashore

PREHISTORIC WONDERS & REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY

Carnac Megaliths and Saint-Goustan Historic Port
  • 6-8 hours (flexible)
  • Private Tour (1-8 passengers)
  • From Lorient Cruise Port
  • Carnac 30min, Auray 20min

When your cruise docks in Lorient, embark on a journey spanning 7,000 years of history. Stand among Europe's most extensive prehistoric megalith fields at Carnac - over 3,000 mysterious standing stones erected by Neolithic peoples whose purpose still sparks debate. Then discover enchanting Saint-Goustan port in Auray, where Benjamin Franklin made his historic landing in December 1776 to secure French support for American independence. Two extraordinary destinations, one unforgettable shore excursion.

Your certified bilingual guide meets you at Lorient's cruise terminal. Within 30 minutes, you're walking among ancient menhirs that predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Then explore Saint-Goustan's medieval cobbled quays where Franklin stepped ashore, changing the course of history. Browse artisan galleries, stroll half-timbered streets, understand the Franco-American alliance born here. Flexible timing, guaranteed stress-free ship return.

Tour Highlights:

Carnac - Europe's Stonehenge

Walk among the world's largest concentration of prehistoric standing stones. Discover the Ménec, Kermario, and Kerlescan alignments - over 3,000 menhirs arranged in mysterious rows stretching across the landscape. Dating to 4500-3300 BCE (older than Egypt's pyramids!), these megaliths pose enduring questions: astronomical calendar, sacred ceremonial path, territorial markers? Your guide presents competing theories while you explore freely accessible sections. Visit the Prehistory Museum (optional) for archaeological context - Neolithic tools, pottery, burial practices. Understand why this remains one of archaeology's greatest enigmas.

Saint-Goustan Port - Where Franklin Landed

Stand on the historic quay where Benjamin Franklin disembarked on December 4, 1776, after a perilous 30-day Atlantic crossing aboard USS Reprisal. This was Franklin's secret mission to negotiate the crucial Franco-American alliance that secured American independence. Your guide recounts his journey - disguised as a simple merchant, exhausted from stormy seas, received by enthusiastic French supporters. Walk the same cobblestones Franklin trod en route to Paris. See the commemorative plaque marking this pivotal moment in American and French history. American visitors are deeply moved by this connection to the Founding Fathers - standing where one of America's greatest statesmen began the diplomatic mission that saved the Revolution.

Saint-Goustan Medieval Quarter & Art Galleries

Explore one of Brittany's most perfectly preserved medieval ports. Saint-Goustan (the historic port quarter of Auray) enchants with 15th-16th century half-timbered houses overhanging the Loch River, ancient stone bridge with water gate, atmospheric cobbled lanes. This picturesque setting has attracted artists for generations - browse numerous artisan galleries showcasing painters, sculptors, ceramicists, jewelers, textile artists. Watch craftspeople at work, discover unique pieces, understand how this maritime heritage inspires contemporary creativity. Charming waterfront cafés and crêperies line the quay where fishing boats once unloaded catches.

Gulf of Morbihan Panoramic Views

Scenic drives between destinations reveal the stunning Gulf of Morbihan - Europe's most beautiful inland sea. Stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking island-dotted waters, traditional oyster parks, coastal villages. Your guide shares maritime traditions, explains why "Mor-bihan" means "Little Sea" in Breton, reveals ecological significance of this protected natural harbor.

What's Included:

  • Lorient cruise port pickup with personalized welcome sign
  • Private luxury vehicle with certified bilingual driver-guide
  • Expert commentary on prehistoric archaeology, American Revolution history, Breton maritime heritage
  • Carnac megalith alignments exploration with free access sections
  • Saint-Goustan historic port complete tour - Franklin landing site, medieval quarter, art galleries
  • Gulf of Morbihan scenic drives with photo stops
  • Flexible itinerary customized to your cruise schedule and interests
  • Art gallery browsing time
  • Restaurant recommendations and reservation assistance
  • Real-time ship monitoring and guaranteed timely return
  • Complimentary bottled water

Why Choose Bellidays for Lorient Shore Excursions:

  • Deep knowledge of Carnac archaeology and American Revolution history
  • Brittany natives with intimate regional expertise
  • 17+ years cruise shore excursion experience
  • Perfect on-time record - Zero missed ship departures
  • Private tours exclusively - No group buses, complete flexibility
  • Multilingual certified guides (English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese)
  • Special expertise for American visitors discovering Franklin's landing site

Full Experience (7-8 hours) - Recommended

Perfect for cruise passengers with 9-11 hours docked. Comprehensive exploration combining prehistoric archaeology with American Revolutionary history.

  • Port Clearance

    Meet at Lorient Cruise Terminal

    Your guide welcomes you with personalized sign at terminal exit. Brief introduction about the fascinating journey ahead - from Neolithic mysteries to Benjamin Franklin's diplomatic mission. Comfortable departure through southern Brittany landscapes.

  • 2.5-3 hours

    Carnac - Walking Among Ancient Stones

    Arrive at the legendary megalith fields (30 minutes from Lorient). Begin at Ménec alignment - walk freely among rows of standing stones stretching into the distance, feel the mystery of 5,000-year-old monuments. Your guide explains Neolithic peoples who erected these massive menhirs, competing theories about their purpose (astronomical observatory, processional path, territorial markers), archaeological discoveries. Visit Kermario alignment - most impressive concentration with stones up to 7 meters tall. See Kerlescan alignment and dolmens (burial chambers). Optional visit to Prehistory Museum - exceptional collection of Neolithic artifacts, tools, pottery, explaining daily life of megalith builders (entry €6pp, highly recommended for context). Explore Carnac-Ville - charming resort town with beach, if time and interest. Your guide reveals lesser-known megaliths tourists miss - hidden dolmens, tumuli (burial mounds), cromlechs (stone circles).

  • 20 minutes

    Scenic Drive via Gulf of Morbihan

    Beautiful journey toward Auray through stunning Gulf of Morbihan landscapes. Stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking the inland sea dotted with islands (42 at high tide!). Your guide transitions from prehistoric past to 18th-century American Revolution history, building anticipation for Franklin's landing site. Photo opportunities at oyster parks and coastal villages.

  • 2-2.5 hours

    Saint-Goustan - Benjamin Franklin's Historic Landing

    Arrive at enchanting Saint-Goustan port (the medieval harbor quarter of Auray). Stand on the exact quay where Benjamin Franklin disembarked December 4, 1776 - exhausted after 30-day Atlantic crossing, beginning his secret diplomatic mission to secure French alliance for American independence. Your guide recounts the dramatic story: Franklin traveling incognito, enthusiastic French reception, journey to Paris, eventual signing of Treaty of Alliance (1778) that provided crucial French military and financial support for American Revolution. See commemorative plaque marking this pivotal Franco-American moment. For American visitors, this is profoundly moving - standing where one of the Founding Fathers stepped into history. Walk atmospheric medieval streets Franklin traversed - cobblestoned lanes lined with 15th-16th century half-timbered houses. Cross ancient stone bridge with defensive water gate. Browse numerous artisan galleries - painters, sculptors, ceramicists, jewelers, textile artists drawn to this picturesque setting. Watch craftspeople work in their studios. Explore waterfront lined with traditional restaurants and crêperies. Optional: Visit Auray upper town (5 minutes) - Saint-Gildas church, covered market, main square.

  • 60-90 minutes

    Lunch (Optional)

    Choose your perfect Breton dining: waterfront crêperie overlooking Loch River where Franklin arrived, traditional restaurant in medieval half-timbered building, gourmet bistro with Gulf of Morbihan seafood (oysters, scallops, line-caught fish), or casual café for galettes and cidre. Your guide recommends authentic addresses and handles reservations.

  • 30 minutes

    Return to Lorient - Guaranteed Timely

    Relaxed drive back to Lorient cruise port. Your guide ensures return 60-90 minutes before all-aboard time. Drop-off directly at terminal entrance. Zero stress, extraordinary memories spanning millennia of history.

Express Highlights (6 hours)

For shorter port calls or efficient overview:

  • Carnac Essentials: Ménec and Kermario alignments exploration (1.5-2 hours)
  • Saint-Goustan Core: Franklin landing site, medieval quarter walk, main galleries (1-1.5 hours)
  • Comfortable return buffer: Back to ship with plenty of time

Extended Exploration (8+ hours)

For travelers wanting comprehensive immersion:

  • Prehistory Museum: In-depth archaeological exploration with guide's expert commentary
  • Hidden Megaliths: Visit lesser-known dolmens, tumuli, cromlechs away from crowds
  • Auray Upper Town: Saint-Gildas church, covered market, historic center
  • Extended Gallery Time: Meet artisans, watch demonstrations, discover unique pieces
  • Gulf of Morbihan Viewpoints: Multiple panoramic stops with photography time

Enhance Your Shore Excursion

Customize with these authentic experiences:

Carnac Experiences:

Prehistory Museum of Carnac

Outstanding archaeological museum providing essential context for understanding the megaliths. Extensive Neolithic artifact collection - polished stone axes, pottery, jewelry, tools revealing daily life 5,000 years ago. Burial reconstructions, explanation of dolmen construction techniques, theories about megalith purposes. Excellent exhibits (English translations available). For serious history enthusiasts wanting comprehensive understanding. Entry €6 per person, +45-60 minutes

Hidden Megaliths Tour

Beyond the famous alignments, Carnac region contains hundreds of lesser-known megalithic sites. Your guide knows hidden dolmens in forests, isolated menhirs in fields, tumuli (burial mounds) away from tourist paths. Visit Géant du Manio (7m tall menhir), Quadrilatère (mysterious stone rectangle), secret cromlechs. More intimate experience understanding megalithic landscape's full scope. +30-45 minutes, some walking across fields

Carnac-Plage Beach Visit

If weather permits and timing allows, brief stop at Carnac's beautiful sandy beach. Enjoy Atlantic views, Belle-Île-en-Mer on horizon, fresh sea air. Popular seaside resort with charming beach promenade. Perfect break between prehistoric sites and medieval port. Seasonal, weather-dependent, +20-30 minutes

Saint-Goustan / Auray Experiences:

Artisan Gallery Encounters

Saint-Goustan's picturesque medieval setting has attracted artists for generations. Visit working galleries and studios - painters capturing harbor light, sculptors inspired by maritime heritage, ceramicists creating Breton-themed pieces, jewelers crafting unique designs, textile artists weaving traditional patterns. Your guide knows which artisans welcome visitors and offer authentic quality vs. tourist souvenirs. Watch demonstrations, learn about creative processes, discover one-of-a-kind pieces. Supporting local artists while finding meaningful mementos.

Auray Upper Town Exploration

Above the port, Auray's historic upper town offers different perspectives. Visit Saint-Gildas church (17th century Renaissance architecture), browse vibrant covered market (Halles, best Monday mornings), explore Place de la République with café terraces, discover antique shops and boutiques. Understand how port quarter and upper town functioned together historically. +30-45 minutes, 5 minutes from Saint-Goustan

American Revolution History Deep Dive

For American visitors passionate about Founding Fathers history, your guide provides extended commentary on Franklin's mission. Understand the strategic importance of French alliance, diplomatic challenges Franklin navigated, how Treaty of Alliance (1778) changed the Revolution's outcome, cultural exchanges between Americans and French. Context on Lafayette's role, naval support, loans that funded Continental Army. Comprehensive historical immersion beyond the landing site itself. Perfect for history buffs and patriots.

Loch River Scenic Walk

Extended stroll along the Loch River beyond the port quarter. Peaceful riverside path with views of Saint-Goustan's houses reflected in water, traditional boats, ancient bridge from different angles. Popular with local artists for painting and photography. Understand the tidal river's role in maritime commerce. +20-30 minutes easy flat walking

Dining & Gastronomy:

Waterfront Crêperie with Historic Views

Traditional crêperie overlooking the Loch River quay where Franklin landed. Savory galettes (buckwheat) with local ingredients, sweet crêpes with salted caramel or flambéed with Lambig. Paired with authentic Breton cidre. Dine in the exact setting Franklin experienced. Atmospheric and delicious. €15-28 per person

Gulf of Morbihan Seafood Lunch

Fresh seafood from the Gulf - renowned oysters (Morbihan produces exceptional varieties), scallops, line-caught fish, shellfish platters. Restaurant in medieval building or waterfront terrace. Your guide recommends quality establishments specializing in local catches. €25-45 per person

Gourmet Bistro - Regional Terroir

Refined dining showcasing Breton and Morbihan specialties. Seasonal menus with local vegetables, artisan cheeses, regional charcuterie, creative preparations. Paired with Loire wines or craft ciders. Your guide handles reservations at best addresses. €35-55 per person

Photography & Special Interests:

Photography-Focused Tour

Extended stops at most photogenic locations - megalith alignments at optimal light, Saint-Goustan's medieval reflections in river, Gulf of Morbihan panoramas, artisan workshops. Your guide knows best compositions and lighting times. Slower pace prioritizing photo opportunities. Morning light on megaliths is dramatic, afternoon golden hour in Saint-Goustan magical.

Archaeological Enthusiast Focus

Comprehensive archaeological exploration for passionate prehistory lovers. Extended Prehistory Museum time, detailed explanations of Neolithic cultures, megalith construction techniques, chronology debates, connections to other European megalithic traditions (Stonehenge, Malta, Orkney). Your guide provides university-level insights in engaging style. For serious archaeology buffs wanting maximum depth.

5.0

Exceptional (Based on 42 cruise passenger reviews)

Cruise passengers rave about this unique combination - prehistoric archaeology meets American Revolution history. Unforgettable journey through time.

Guest Reviews

  1. Tom & Susan
    Tom & Susan
    September 2024 - Holland America (USA)

    "As Americans, standing where Benjamin Franklin landed in 1776 gave us chills! We had NO idea about this connection to American independence - our guide's storytelling brought Franklin's mission to life. The megaliths at Carnac were mind-blowing too - older than the pyramids! Saint-Goustan port is absolutely charming with wonderful art galleries. This tour connects ancient European history with American founding - brilliant combination. Our guide Belinda was exceptional. Highly recommend for American cruise passengers!"

  2. Michael & Jennifer
    Michael & Jennifer
    August 2024 - Princess Cruises

    "The Carnac megaliths are incredible - we walked freely among thousands of standing stones with excellent explanation from our guide about Neolithic peoples and competing theories. Saint-Goustan was a delightful surprise - picturesque medieval port with fantastic artisan galleries. We bought a beautiful painting from a local artist. The Franklin connection added meaningful historical depth. Private tour meant we could spend more time at what interested us most. Worth every euro!"

  3. The Peterson Family
    The Peterson Family
    July 2024 - Royal Caribbean (USA)

    "Traveling with our teenage kids who are usually bored by historical sites. They were fascinated by the megaliths - 'older than pyramids' got their attention! The Benjamin Franklin story engaged them too - American history coming alive in France. Saint-Goustan was beautiful for photos. Our guide adapted explanations perfectly for different ages. Lunch at waterfront crêperie was delicious. Back at ship with time to spare. Best shore excursion of our cruise - educational and fun for the whole family!"

GALLERY

Carnac Megalithic Alignments UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cat House Saint-Goustan Port Auray
Carnac Standing Stones Brittany
Blue Door Saint-Goustan Auray
Carnac Tumulus Burial Mound
Historic Clock Saint-Goustan Auray
Saint-Cornély Church Carnac Brittany
Benjamin Franklin Landing Site Saint-Goustan
Le Ménec Carnac Alignments
Half-Timbered House Auray Center
CRUISE PASSENGER FAQ

CARNAC & SAINT-GOUSTAN SHORE EXCURSION

Common questions about this prehistoric and American Revolution history journey from Lorient.

On December 4, 1776, Benjamin Franklin landed at Saint-Goustan port after a perilous 30-day Atlantic crossing. He was on a secret diplomatic mission to negotiate French support for American independence - the alliance that ultimately secured victory in the Revolutionary War. Franklin traveled incognito, exhausted from stormy seas, and was received enthusiastically by French supporters. From this port, he journeyed to Paris where he negotiated the Treaty of Alliance (1778) providing crucial French military and financial aid. Standing on the same quay where one of America's Founding Fathers stepped into history is deeply moving for American visitors. This Franco-American connection is commemorated with a plaque marking the historic landing site.

The Carnac megaliths date to 4500-3300 BCE (approximately 5,000-7,000 years old) - making them OLDER than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids! They're menhirs (standing stones) arranged in mysterious alignments - over 3,000 stones in rows stretching across the landscape. Neolithic peoples erected these massive monuments using Stone Age tools and techniques we still don't fully understand. Their exact purpose remains debated: astronomical calendar/observatory, ceremonial processional paths, territorial markers, sacred sites? Multiple theories exist. The region also contains dolmens (stone burial chambers) and tumuli (burial mounds). This is Europe's largest concentration of prehistoric megaliths - genuinely extraordinary archaeological site.

Yes! While some sections are fenced for archaeological protection (erosion from millions of visitors), substantial areas remain freely accessible year-round. You can walk among the stones at Ménec alignment, parts of Kermario, and numerous other sites. The experience of standing beside 5,000-year-old menhirs, some taller than a person, is profound and unrestricted. Your guide knows which sections offer best access and most impressive stones. For enclosed areas, viewing from designated paths still provides excellent perspectives. Some smaller megalithic sites (dolmens, isolated menhirs) can be approached closely. The Prehistory Museum (optional, €6pp) provides essential context.

Saint-Goustan's picturesque medieval setting has attracted artists for generations. The port quarter features numerous artisan galleries and studios: painters capturing maritime light and Breton landscapes, sculptors working in wood/stone/metal, ceramicists creating both traditional and contemporary pieces, jewelers crafting unique designs, textile artists weaving Breton patterns, leather workers, glass artists. Many are working studios where you can watch artisans create and discuss their craft. Quality ranges from exceptional fine art to decorative crafts - your guide helps identify authentic artisan work versus tourist souvenirs. Prices vary widely (€30-3,000+). Supporting local artists while finding meaningful mementos of your visit. The medieval cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses create an inspiring atmosphere that draws creative people.

Carnac is approximately 30 minutes from Lorient cruise port via direct routes. Saint-Goustan (Auray) is about 20 minutes from Carnac, or 30-40 minutes from Lorient depending on route. All drives are through beautiful southern Brittany landscapes and Gulf of Morbihan scenery. With 7-8 hours docked, you'll have comfortable time for both destinations with museum visits, gallery browsing, and lunch, never feeling rushed. We guarantee return to ship 60-90 minutes before all-aboard with zero stress. Perfect distances for comprehensive shore excursion without excessive driving time.

Yes! Families consistently love this combination. Kids are fascinated walking among giant prehistoric stones - "older than pyramids" captures their imagination. The Benjamin Franklin story engages children learning American history (many recognize his face from $100 bills!). Saint-Goustan's medieval streets and waterfront feel like a storybook setting. Artisan galleries often have demonstrations kids find interesting (watching pottery, sculpture, painting). Your guide adapts commentary for different ages with interactive elements and age-appropriate stories. Plenty of walking freedom at megaliths to burn energy. Crêperies offer kid-friendly food. Great family shore excursion combining education and exploration.

Moderate easy walking. At Carnac, paths through megaliths are mostly flat grass/gravel (can be uneven). You walk at your own pace exploring stone rows. Saint-Goustan involves cobblestoned medieval streets (some gentle slopes), waterfront quay (flat), galleries on ground floors. Total walking time typically 2.5-3.5 hours spread throughout the day with frequent stops and breaks. Most cruise passengers with reasonable fitness handle it comfortably. Good walking shoes essential for uneven terrain and cobblestones. We can adjust pace and skip challenging sections if needed. Contact us about specific mobility concerns - wheelchair access is limited at megaliths (uneven ground) but Saint-Goustan port area is more accessible.

Excellent dining in both locations! Saint-Goustan has charming waterfront restaurants and crêperies with terraces overlooking the Loch River where Franklin landed - atmospheric medieval settings. Traditional Breton galettes (savory buckwheat crêpes), fresh Gulf of Morbihan seafood (oysters, scallops, fish), local specialties. Carnac offers beachside restaurants and bistros. Prices range €15-45 depending on choice. Your guide recommends authentic addresses locals love versus tourist traps and handles reservations. Popular choice: waterfront crêperie lunch in Saint-Goustan experiencing classic Breton cuisine with cidre in historic setting. Vegetarian and dietary preferences easily accommodated.
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