Discover Berné
Berné has lived through the ages. From the Middle Ages to the Second World War, via the Revolution... So many stories to tell!
The forest of Pont-Calleck and the medieval hamlet
Do you enjoy walking in the great outdoors? The state forest of Pont-Calleck is the perfect place to enjoy nature! On the banks of the River Scorff, the 545-hectare forest keeps you cool on hot days. It is home to a wealth of flora and fauna waiting to be discovered.
Early on, man realised that the forest was an ideal place to work and meet his needs. The remains of a medieval hamlet are still there to prove it!
This hamlet, which is thought to date from between the 14th and 15th centuries, was discovered by chance during reforestation work. Today, explanatory panels adorn the site to help you understand the farming activity of the time.
The long history of Pont-Calleck castle
Berné belonged to the castellany of Pont-Calleck. The castle, initially a simple manor house, was transformed into a stronghold after theaddition of fortifications. However, these fortifications were not enough to counter the Duke of Mercoeur's assault during the League. He succeeded in taking and pillaging the castle. Wishing to have a stronghold to shelter his men, he rebuilt it with more... fortifications.
The castle and, more importantly, its owner, were once again in the news during thePont-Calleck conspiracy(1718-1720). This plot by Breton nobles was aimed at the monarchy, which demanded taxes that undermined their privileges. The Marquis of Pont-Calleck attempted to stir up Brittany in order to restore the province's rights. The story does not end well for him...
The castle continued to play a role during the Second World War. Lorient was the target of Allied bombing raids and 600 civilians from Lorient came to take refuge at Pont-Calleck. The German navy took advantage of the situation to occupy the castle and transform it once again into a stronghold... It was also used as a temporary school to train its troops.
Since 1956, the château has belonged to the Dominicans of the Holy Spirit. They have opened a school for boys.
Although the château is not open to visitors, its grounds are open to walkers looking for an easy stroll suitable for everyone.
Pretty chapels
Berné also has a very fine religious heritage to discover, why not while walking.
Towards the Scorff Valley, on the edge of the forest and bordering the Château de Pont Calleck, the little chapel of Sainte-Anne-des-Bois was built in 1865 by the Count of Cossé-Brissac. He and his wife already had three sons and wanted to add a daughter to their family. Their wish was granted in 1864, and in keeping with their promise to Saint Anne, they had this chapel built.
Don't miss the chapel of the Sacred Heart either! This architectural reduction of the Montmartre basilica, built in 1902, dominates the surrounding countryside. From afar, you can see the two domes on which stands a statue of the Sacré Coeur. Thisunexpected building in the land of the King of Morvan is nicknamed the Montmartre of Brittany!
Superb walks
Fortunately, none of these historical events represent Berné today! Today, Berné offers a number of beautiful and peaceful walking trails.
- The Coronc trail (14.5 km) takes in the medieval hamlet and the Kerlivio menhir.
- The Pontkalleg trail (16.3 km) takes in the Sainte-Anne-des-Bois chapel, the Saint-Albaud fountain and the Saint-Pierre fountain, as well as the medieval hamlet.
- The Sacré Coeur trail (10 km), where you can take in the local heritage: bread oven, wash-houses, wells, etc.
Off you go for a few kilometres!
