Saint-Malo

Nestled on the Emerald Coast of Brittany, Saint-Malo is a captivating port city known for its rich maritime history, stunning beaches, and impressive fortified old town, "Intra-Muros." Once the haunt of corsairs, Saint-Malo is now a popular destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This guide will provide you with all the information you need for a memorable visit to Saint-Malo.

Getting to Saint-Malo

• By Air: The nearest airport is Dinard–Pleurtuit–Saint-Malo Airport, with limited flights primarily from the UK. Rennes Airport, offering a wider range of domestic and international flights, is about an hour's drive away.

• By Train: Saint-Malo is well-connected by train, including direct TGV high-speed services from Paris Montparnasse, taking about three hours.

• By Car: Driving to Saint-Malo offers the flexibility to explore the Brittany region. The city is accessible via the A11 and N137 from Paris, and the D137 from Rennes.

• By Ferry: Saint-Malo is a major ferry port, with routes to and from the UK (Portsmouth, Poole) and the Channel Islands, making it accessible by sea.

Top Attractions

Saint-Malo is brimming with attractions that highlight its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are the top attractions in Saint-Malo:

• Intra-Muros: Explore the heart of Saint-Malo, the "Intra Muros" (within the walls) district. Wander through narrow cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and cafes.

• Saint-Malo Ramparts: Walk along the 2km long ramparts encircling the old town, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, harbor, and the ever-changing tides.

• Fort National: Explore Fort National, a 17th-century island fortress accessible by boat or footbridge at low tide. Learn about its role in defending Saint-Malo's harbor.

• Plage du Sillon:  Relax on the Plage du Sillon, a 3km long sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, walking, or enjoying water sports.

• Saint-Vincent Cathedral: Admire the Saint-Vincent Cathedral, a beautiful example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, dating back to the 12th century.

• Grand Aquarium Saint-Malo: One of France's largest aquariums, showcasing marine life from around the world.

• Solidor Tower in Saint-Servan: A historic tower housing a museum dedicated to long-distance sailors, with beautiful views over the Rance estuary.

• Plage de Bon-Secours: Famous for its seawater pool accessible at low tide and stunning views of Intra-Muros.

• Port of Saint-Malo: A lively area with marinas, restaurants, and the departure point for ferries to the Channel Islands and the UK.

• Pointe de la Varde: An unspoiled natural site offering breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast.

• Île du Grand Bé: Accessible at low tide, this small island is the resting place of French writer Chateaubriand and offers serene natural beauty.

• Le Petit Train de Saint-Malo: A fun way to see the city, especially appealing to families with children.

• Maison du Québec: Celebrating Saint-Malo's historical ties with Canada, this house hosts exhibitions and cultural events.

• Les Malouinières: Discover the "Malouinières", the grand mansions built by wealthy Saint-Malo shipowners and merchants between the 16th and 18th centuries.

• Château de Saint-Malo:  Explore the Saint-Malo Castle, a complex of forts and towers guarding the city entrance for centuries. Learn about the city's rich history and maritime heritage.

• Parc de la Briantais: Escape to the Parc de la Briantais, a vast public park with gardens, lakes, a mini-golf course, and a petting zoo. Perfect for a family outing or a relaxing picnic.

• Musée Jacques Cartier:  Learn about the life and voyages of Jacques Cartier, the famous French explorer who discovered Canada, at the Musée Jacques Cartier.

• GR®34 Hiking Trail: Explore a section of the GR®34, a long-distance hiking trail that follows the Brittany coastline, offering stunning coastal views and fresh sea air.

• Paramé:  Stroll along the charming seaside resort of Paramé, known for its beautiful villas, sandy beaches, and elegant casino.

Dining in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo's culinary scene highlights Breton specialties and fresh seafood.

• Crêperies: Sample traditional galettes and crêpes in the cozy crêperies within Intra-Muros or along the seafront.

• Seafood: Enjoy freshly caught oysters, mussels, and lobster in the many seafood restaurants, particularly those with views of the bay.

• Breton Specialties: Don't miss trying "kouign-amann" (a buttery pastry), local ciders, and "moules-frites" (mussels with fries).

• Seaside Dining: Many restaurants in Saint-Malo offer the added bonus of stunning sea views, particularly those located along the Sillon Beach and within the Intra-Muros. Dining with a view of the sea or the historic city walls can make your meal even more memorable.

• Local Markets: The markets of Saint-Malo are a feast for the senses, offering a range of local products like cheeses, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. The Marché de Saint-Servan, held on Tuesdays and Fridays, is particularly popular among locals and visitors alike, providing a great opportunity to sample local flavors and even pick up ingredients for a picnic.

• Fine Dining and Bistros: For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Saint-Malo does not disappoint. The city is home to several fine dining establishments, where talented chefs put innovative twists on traditional Breton and French cuisine, often emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients.

• Casual and Family Friendly: Saint-Malo caters to all types of diners, including families with children. You’ll find plenty of casual eateries, pizzerias, and brasseries offering a relaxed atmosphere and menus that appeal to younger palates.

Accommodation

Saint-Malo offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels within Intra-Muros to charming B&Bs and seafront resorts.

• Historic Hotels: Stay within the walled city for a historic atmosphere, with several hotels offering modern comforts in centuries-old buildings.

• Seafront Hotels: Opt for a room with a sea view for a memorable stay, especially along the Plage du Sillon.

• Vacation Rentals: Apartments and houses are available for rent, providing a homey base for families and groups.

Travel Tips

• Exploring on Foot: Intra-Muros and the beaches are best explored on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobbled streets.

• Tide Times: Check the tide schedules, especially if you plan to visit attractions like the Grand Bé Island or Fort National, which are accessible only at low tide. The tides in this region are among the most dramatic in Europe.

• Beach Time: Allocate some time to relax on Saint-Malo's beautiful beaches. The Plage du Sillon is perfect for a leisurely stroll, sunbathing, or trying water sports.

• Explore Beyond Intra-Muros: While the walled city is a highlight, don't overlook other areas of Saint-Malo, such as Saint-Servan, Paramé, and Rothéneuf, each with its own charm and attractions.

• Local Transport: The city is well-served by buses, making it easy to explore different areas. Consider renting a bike for a leisurely exploration of the coastline and beyond.

• Day Trips: Use Saint-Malo as a base to explore nearby attractions like the medieval town of Dinan, the oyster beds of Cancale, and the iconic Mont Saint-Michel.

• Festivals: Check local event calendars, as Saint-Malo hosts numerous festivals and events, particularly in the summer months.

• Local Etiquette: As in any French city, a few basic French phrases and polite manners will enhance your interactions with locals.

• Learn a Few French Phrases: While many in Saint-Malo speak English, especially in tourist areas, knowing some basic French phrases will enrich your interactions and show respect for the local culture.

• Dress in Layers: The weather can be changeable, especially by the sea. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket to ensure you're comfortable, regardless of the weather.

Saint-Malo, with its unique blend of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and culinary delights, promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you're walking the ancient ramparts, enjoying the beaches, or savoring fresh Breton cuisine, this storied city by the sea captures the essence of Brittany's adventurous spirit.