Saint-Cado Islet, a Magical Setting on the Etel River, Brittany France

Saint-Cado islet in Morbihan lies a number of kilometres from Lorient. In the heart of the Etel river, connected to the land by way of a legendary stone bridge, the village is a concealed treasure of Brittany. It only will take about 15 minutes to walk all around the Saint-Cado islet. The landscape has its magical setting, which has attracted us so considerably all through our autumn excursion to Brittany.

The stone bridge

The secret of the small islet begun from its legend. Famous, it is reported Saint Cado wanted a bridge to connect the inlet separated from the land by the Etel river but lacked the signifies. Immediately after negotiation in between Saint Cado and the devil, the devil agreed to construct a bridge in exchange for the soul of the one who would cross the bridge for the 1st time. But, the very first passer-by was a cat!

Going for walks from the quay, the stone bridge appears to be substantial in comparison to the inlet. From the stone bridge, you can see most properties of the Saint-Cado inlet. The wetland space at equally sides of the bridge draws in many birds.

Little cottage with blue shutters (Nichtarguer)

Right before entering the Saint-Cado, you will not miss that minor dwelling with blue shutters. The previous oyster farmer’s cottage on the rocky islet is picture great and on several postcards. There employed to have lots of oysters previous alongside the Étel river since the 1890s. But now, only a lot less than 100 farmers are even now generating about 3000 tonnes of oysters for each calendar year.  

Heritage of Saint-Cado islet

The passionate stroll on the islet starts off in the centre of the islet, the place people can admire some reliable fisherman’s stone properties and religious monuments.

Romanesque chapel

The little island has a Romanesque chapel from the twelfth century. The chapel has a western portal of the sixteenth century, a nave, aisles, and a choir of the Romanesque period. Quite a few residences on the islet are all-around this minimal Romanesque chapel.

Calvary of Saint Cado

Calvary adorned with sculptures stands on a large porch accessed by stairs bordered by minimal partitions. The platform is confined by four sq. piles with projecting cornices topped with balls. The foundation of the cross is in the sort of a curved altar. 

Fountain 

The fountain down below the chapel is accessible by the stone path. It is shielded from the sea by a thick wall. The square-shaped basin is less than a semicircular arch formed in the coronary heart of a paired massif. On top rated of the arch, the developing is surmounted by a extra latest sculpted cross, depicting a crucifixion. 

Walking path about the islet

We took the path below the chapel and walked all around the island. The walkway features a beautiful viewpoint on to the Etel River among oyster farms, forests, and modest coves wherever vibrant boats sail. It was well worth expending time to delight in the preserved normal landscapes and authenticity. The best place of the islet would be two meters tall at higher tide. I could envision a spectacular sunset see with the past golden rays trimming the sea. Les Algues Marines at the quay delivers common neighborhood foods and is the best spot to appreciate sunset views.

Journey recommendations for Saint-Cado Islet

Wherever to remain

Saint-Cado is a ideal base to check out Lorient, Vannes, and Quiberon. There is only just one accommodation on the very small islet. On the land aspect, there are a number of hotels and 1 tenting area. The subsequent a few hotels are all shut to the stone bridge:

How to get there

The ideal way to get there is by motor vehicle. Consider the N165(E60), then D16 to Belz. From Belz, you generate on the local roadways towards the Saint-Cado islet. There is a parking put just following to the waterfront. Readers can walk to the stone bridge by way of the waterfront from the parking area.