Saint Winwaloe vs The Devil: The Story of Les Roches du Diable
Mythology/Folklore/History
Tuesday 22nd, April 2025
5 minute read.
Nestled in the beautiful region of Brittany, France, Les Roches du Diable (The Devil’s Rocks) are a series of dramatic rock formations with a fascinating legend tied to them. Located near the town of Quimperlé, these rocks are set in the picturesque Ellé River valley, offering both natural beauty and a deep connection to local folklore. The area’s landscape and rich myths make it an essential stop for those interested in the mystical and the mysterious.
The legend of Les Roches du Diable dates back centuries, weaving together tales of religious figures and the forces of darkness. According to local folklore, the Devil once claimed the area as his domain. This powerful and malevolent figure was said to haunt the valley and manipulate the forces of nature to his will.
The key player in the legend is Saint Winwaloe, a Breton saint and the founder of the Abbey of Landévennec, who stood up against the Devil's claim over the land. Saint Winwaloe, using divine powers, challenged the Devil in a series of encounters. The most famous part of the legend involves the Devil being tricked by the saint into retreating. As the story goes, Winwaloe used a clever ruse to send a small squirrel across a bridge to lure the Devil into pursuing it. Furious, the Devil retaliated by creating a vast chasm in the Ellé River, leaving behind the rocky formations that now mark the site.
As the Devil’s anger surged, the legend states that he hurled massive stones across the river, shaping the rocks that still stand today. These jagged, mysterious stones are now known as Les Roches du Diable. The rocks are scattered in the valley, some appearing almost sculptural in their odd shapes and formations. Over time, they’ve become a symbol of the battle between good and evil in Breton folklore.
While the legend remains an integral part of the Roches du Diable, the geological and historical significance of the site adds another layer of intrigue. The valley surrounding the rocks is known for its lush landscape, featuring dense woodlands and tranquil river views. The location of Les Roches du Diable is not just mystical but also historically important. The nearby Abbey of Landévennec holds its own set of intriguing legends and connections to the region’s rich past, with some historical records dating back to the 6th century.
The Ellé River, which the rocks surround, was a vital waterway in the past, providing a route for trade and communication. It’s believed that the chasm created by the Devil altered the course of the river, contributing to both the natural and mythological character of the area.
The natural landscape, coupled with the story of Saint Winwaloe’s triumph, brings a sense of mystery to the site, attracting those who appreciate both history and the supernatural. Today, Les Roches du Diable stands as a testament to Brittany’s folklore, drawing visitors who seek a connection to its mystical past.
Visiting Les Roches du Diable offers an experience that merges the beauty of nature with the intrigue of local myths. The area is accessible to tourists and locals alike, with hiking trails that take visitors through forests and along the riverbanks. The rock formations themselves provide excellent photo opportunities, while the calm surroundings allow for peaceful contemplation, making it a perfect spot for both nature lovers and those with an interest in folklore.
Though no physical proof of the Devil’s actions remains, the myths that surround the rocks are an integral part of the region’s cultural identity. Many locals still tell the tale of Saint Winwaloe and the Devil with a sense of pride, recognising the rocks as an enduring symbol of resistance against evil.
For those keen on exploring the broader area, the town of Quimperlé is only about 6 kilometres away, offering a wealth of historical sites, charming streets, and more insights into Brittany’s fascinating past. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of natural beauty, or a seeker of the supernatural, Les Roches du Diable is a place that speaks to both the imagination and the senses.
Les Roches du Diable are more than just a collection of dramatic rocks in the heart of Brittany’s countryside. They are a place where mythology and nature converge, where the tale of Saint Winwaloe’s confrontation with the Devil continues to echo through the ages. Visitors to the site are invited to reflect on the legends that shaped this region, while also appreciating the stunning beauty of the landscape.
The rocks stand as a powerful reminder of the battle between good and evil, nature’s forces, and the timeless influence of local folklore. For those willing to venture into the heart of Brittany, Les Roches du Diable offers a glimpse into the past, where the mythical and the natural exist side by side, creating an unforgettable experience.
The legend of Les Roches du Diable dates back centuries, weaving together tales of religious figures and the forces of darkness. According to local folklore, the Devil once claimed the area as his domain. This powerful and malevolent figure was said to haunt the valley and manipulate the forces of nature to his will.
The key player in the legend is Saint Winwaloe, a Breton saint and the founder of the Abbey of Landévennec, who stood up against the Devil's claim over the land. Saint Winwaloe, using divine powers, challenged the Devil in a series of encounters. The most famous part of the legend involves the Devil being tricked by the saint into retreating. As the story goes, Winwaloe used a clever ruse to send a small squirrel across a bridge to lure the Devil into pursuing it. Furious, the Devil retaliated by creating a vast chasm in the Ellé River, leaving behind the rocky formations that now mark the site.
As the Devil’s anger surged, the legend states that he hurled massive stones across the river, shaping the rocks that still stand today. These jagged, mysterious stones are now known as Les Roches du Diable. The rocks are scattered in the valley, some appearing almost sculptural in their odd shapes and formations. Over time, they’ve become a symbol of the battle between good and evil in Breton folklore.
While the legend remains an integral part of the Roches du Diable, the geological and historical significance of the site adds another layer of intrigue. The valley surrounding the rocks is known for its lush landscape, featuring dense woodlands and tranquil river views. The location of Les Roches du Diable is not just mystical but also historically important. The nearby Abbey of Landévennec holds its own set of intriguing legends and connections to the region’s rich past, with some historical records dating back to the 6th century.
The Ellé River, which the rocks surround, was a vital waterway in the past, providing a route for trade and communication. It’s believed that the chasm created by the Devil altered the course of the river, contributing to both the natural and mythological character of the area.
The natural landscape, coupled with the story of Saint Winwaloe’s triumph, brings a sense of mystery to the site, attracting those who appreciate both history and the supernatural. Today, Les Roches du Diable stands as a testament to Brittany’s folklore, drawing visitors who seek a connection to its mystical past.
Visiting Les Roches du Diable offers an experience that merges the beauty of nature with the intrigue of local myths. The area is accessible to tourists and locals alike, with hiking trails that take visitors through forests and along the riverbanks. The rock formations themselves provide excellent photo opportunities, while the calm surroundings allow for peaceful contemplation, making it a perfect spot for both nature lovers and those with an interest in folklore.
Though no physical proof of the Devil’s actions remains, the myths that surround the rocks are an integral part of the region’s cultural identity. Many locals still tell the tale of Saint Winwaloe and the Devil with a sense of pride, recognising the rocks as an enduring symbol of resistance against evil.
For those keen on exploring the broader area, the town of Quimperlé is only about 6 kilometres away, offering a wealth of historical sites, charming streets, and more insights into Brittany’s fascinating past. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of natural beauty, or a seeker of the supernatural, Les Roches du Diable is a place that speaks to both the imagination and the senses.
Les Roches du Diable are more than just a collection of dramatic rocks in the heart of Brittany’s countryside. They are a place where mythology and nature converge, where the tale of Saint Winwaloe’s confrontation with the Devil continues to echo through the ages. Visitors to the site are invited to reflect on the legends that shaped this region, while also appreciating the stunning beauty of the landscape.
The rocks stand as a powerful reminder of the battle between good and evil, nature’s forces, and the timeless influence of local folklore. For those willing to venture into the heart of Brittany, Les Roches du Diable offers a glimpse into the past, where the mythical and the natural exist side by side, creating an unforgettable experience.
