The Menhir dit La Pierre-Longue near La Butte in Cuguen dates back to the Neolithic period and stands 6.50 metres high. It has been classified as a historic monument since 1889. The year refers to its protected status, not to when the stone was created. In the 19th century, it was Christianised. A local legend tells how the cross on its top stopped the devil from carrying the menhir away to build his temple in the heath of Rochefort near Trémeheuc. This monument therefore brings together its Neolithic origins, a later Christian influence and a local tradition.
The Menhir and a Circular Route Through the Countryside
The Circuit du Menhir de La Butte is a circular route for discovering Cuguen’s megalithic heritage and surrounding countryside. It is also designated as an easy mountain biking route and an easy horse-riding route. Both are classed as easy, but differ in the means of travel. The sports ground on the D285 in Cuguen is given as a reference point. Check the signs before setting out.
A pond along the circuit provides a habitat for several species of waterbird. Seasonal species include mallards, shovelers, wigeons, swans, herons, coots and little egrets. The birdlife adds a natural dimension to the megalithic focus; their presence varies by season.
The Castle Complex Between a Rocky Plateau and a Valley
The Château de La Roche-Montbourcher was besieged, captured and plundered by Saint-Luc in 1590; in 1595, it was demolished by order. The five years between the dates mark two distinct events: the military attack and the later demolition.
The site stood at the edge of a rocky plateau above a narrow, long valley. The rocky spur was artificially cut off by digging ditches; this fortification should be distinguished from the natural setting. The complex included a trapezoidal defensive area with a keep, a seigneurial residence that has since disappeared, and an eastern bailey. Earthworks with circular tower bases at the corners surrounded the bailey. The complex can therefore be divided into a defensive area, a residential building and a bailey, rather than viewed as a single structure.
Chapel, Remembrance and Garden
The Chapelle de Lantiman is the only surviving one of the four chapels that belonged to the parish of Cuguen before the French Revolution. It reflects an earlier ecclesiastical organisation of the parish. The Croix de La Plihonnière was erected in memory of a relative killed in the First World War. The chapel and the cross represent different historical connections: the parish’s church structure before the Revolution and remembrance of someone killed in the war.
The Jardin de La Péfolière is an English garden covering almost two hectares. Rhododendrons, camellias, magnolias, roses and dogwoods grow there. Visits are available on request. Alongside the stone and historical features, the garden adds its own horticultural character.
More Destinations
Also discover: Dinard, Trans-La-Forêt, Poilley, Montours, Le Tiercent, Québriac, Lohéac, Ercé-en-Lamée.
For the broader travel overview: Ille-Et-Vilaine.
