The history of Chapelle Saint-Maudé dates back to the 1430s; contemporary stained-glass windows by Olivier Debré provide a different accent. Together with a hilly landscape shaped by agriculture, livestock farming and bocage, La Croix-Helléan offers several themes for a stay: heritage, time outdoors, horse riding and the processing of grain into malt. You can choose which of these shapes your stay according to your own interests.
Cultural history: chapel and crosses
Construction of Chapelle Saint-Maudé began in the 1430s on the initiative of the Breton Duke Jean V. Rohan and the lords of Quelen from Broutay were also involved in its foundation. Thus, both the construction period and the people involved form part of the chapel’s history. It has contemporary stained-glass windows by Olivier Debré. The contrast between construction beginning in the 15th century and this contemporary design offers another perspective on the building: architectural history and art can be viewed as different layers of time.
Other historical landmarks include the Croix de la Ville-Côte and the wayside cross at Bellon. The Croix de la Ville-Côte has been listed as a historic monument since 29 March 1935. The wayside cross at Bellon is located in the hamlet of the same name in La Croix-Helléan and dates from the 16th century. These details place the emphasis in different ways: for Ville-Côte, the date it was listed as a monument is key; for Bellon, its historical date of origin and its location in the hamlet are significant. You can therefore explore the local heritage sites according to their respective historical connections.
Hilly countryside and time outdoors
Agriculture and livestock farming shape the hilly landscape and bocage hedgerow network of La Croix-Helléan. Bocage refers to a landscape divided by hedgerows; the term helps distinguish this landscape feature from the history of buildings and monuments. The paths and woodland areas are also suitable for outdoor activities. If you do not want to plan your stay solely around cultural history, you can make room in your plans for the landscape and time outdoors.
Horse riding and farm-made malt
Ferme équestre Les Korrigans offers horse riding close to nature, as well as sport and leisure riding. Riding lessons are available for all levels and age groups from three years old. You can first consider the type of riding you want, then choose based on level and age group. Check the current programme and availability of riding lessons before your visit.
Ferme Malterie Distillerie Digouët combines agriculture with grain processing: the organic farm processes its grain into malt. It sells its products directly from the farm by appointment; product availability may change. If you plan to buy directly from the farm, make an appointment in advance and ask which products are currently available.
Discover more destinations: Moustoir-A, Le Bonhomme, Le Faouët, Groix, Le Courégant, Séné, Languidic, Allaire.
Go to the broader travel overview: Morbihan.
