Visiting Saint-Malo, the Corsair City of Brittany, is undoubtedly one of the essential places to visit in Brittany. Its ramparts, its beaches, its places accessible only at low tide and its town center dressed in cobbled streets, are all reasons that make Saint-Malo a place to visit. Saint-Malo is a small haven of peace, ideally located in Brittany, which will charm you for sure. There are many things to do on site, this is what we will detail immediately in this article. I will also give you some practical advice to organize your visit to Saint-Malo and also, my opinion on my visit to Saint-Malo.
Summary:
- Presentation of Saint Malo
- Visit Saint-Malo: what to do?
- What to do around Saint-Malo?
- Practical information for your visit
- My opinion on this visit
Presentation of Saint Malo
Saint-Malo is recognizable from afar with its typical fortifications, its slate roofs and its port. The Cité Corsaire must be part of your must-see visits in Brittany.
Facing the beautiful seaside resort of Dinard, Saint-Malo offers you a concentration of history, culture, gastronomy, sea air, beaches, etc. But before presenting all the beautiful things to do in Saint-Malo, Malo, I am going to present to you in a few words the history of this city unlike any other.
Saint-Malo, Cité Corsaire
Saint-Malo owes its nickname to historical facts that were significant and very important in the construction of the city and in its development.
The beginnings of the city date back to the middle of the XNUMXth century. It was at this time that the first dwellings were erected.
Due to its geographical location, this place was a very popular place and coveted by the greatest: the Duke of Brittany or the French crown.
Saint-Malo, independent city
And yes ! As surprising as it may seem, Saint-Malo was, for 4 years, an entirely independent city. This fact took place in the XVII century. It was at this time that the following motto was born: “Neither French nor Breton, Malouin am. The reason for this independence is linked to a history of religion. A Protestant king acceded to the throne, which displeased the Falklanders. Saint-Malo ceased to be independent when the king became a Catholic.
But this strategic place also attracted many shipowners, corsairs and other merchant sailors. In times of war, the corsairs had the mission of pursuing enemy merchant ships and seizing them. This was "legal" thanks to the "letters of races" issued by the king. These practices have represented an indisputable source of wealth for many years. In total, no less than 1000 ships were captured, the wealth and goods of which went directly to privateers and shipowners, and partly financed the wars.
To finish on the activities of the time in Saint-Malo, it is also from this port that certain expeditions left. The best known was when Jacques Cartier discovered Canada.
Saint-Malo and its architecture
Here is an important element that represents Saint-Malo well: the architecture of the intramural buildings. The particularity lies in the use of a very specific material: Chausey granite. Almost all the constructions are made from this particular granite, giving an undeniable uniqueness.
During the Second World War, many bombardments violently affected Saint-Malo, destroying it to a large extent. Fortunately, it was rebuilt almost identically, which allows us to admire this city almost as in the time of the corsairs!
The second architectural particularity of this city is the construction of very typical houses: the malouinières. These houses built between the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries belonged to wealthy merchants and shipowners who made their fortunes in Saint-Malo. Often out of the way of the town centre, these malouinières made it possible to escape the crowds and acted as a second home.
Today, 112 have been identified. We will see later in this article that some can be visited!
Visit Saint-Malo: what to do?
Visit Saint-Malo: what to do?- Walk around the ramparts
- Visit Saint-Malo intra muros
- Visit the Castle and the History Museum
- Discover the residence of the Corsair
- Visit Saint Vincent Cathedral
- Visit the Fort National
- Go to the islands of Grand-Bé and Petit-Bé
- Visit the Jacques Cartier Museum
- Stroll on the beaches of Saint-Malo
- Rest in thalassotherapy
Walk around the ramparts
In order to take a little height and discover the city, I invite you to start your visit of Saint-Malo with a walk on the ramparts. Going around the inner city, the ramparts were spared by the bombardments and are therefore original, ie from the XNUMXth century.
The view from these ramparts is breathtaking: both the bay of Saint-Malo with Dinard in the distance, the interior of the town and its narrow streets, but also its port and its beach in the distance.
Perfectly maintained and preserved, this beautiful walk will allow you to have a first glimpse of the city and to be able to identify the sites to visit such as the island of Grand-Bé or the Fort National, visible from afar.
Visit the ramparts of Saint-Malo
Besides the protective and defensive aspect of these ramparts, you will also find many places and places on the ramparts. Gates: Dinan gate, Saint-Vincent gate, Saint-Pierre gate, … Bastions: Saint-Louis bastion, Saint-Philippe bastion, Holland bastion, … Or the Bidouane tower. Each of these places has had a role in the history of Saint-Malo. Take the time to read the explanatory panels to learn more.
Depending on whether your walk takes place at high tide or at low tide, you will be able to admire totally different landscapes.
Different access points along the ramparts allow you to reach the top. To go around, count between 1h30 and 2 hours. It is quite possible for you to go down and go back up further or later, you do not have to do the whole tour in one go.
Visit Saint-Malo intra muros
As mentioned many times since the beginning of this article, the interior of Saint-Malo is worth the detour. These are many small cobbled streets, and quite charming, waiting for you. Between shops of all kinds, restaurants and creperies, the heart of Saint-Malo is alive and offers many opportunities to its visitors.
Some sites are to be visited inside Saint-Malo such as the Castle which housed the History Museum, the Saint-Vincent Cathedral or the residence of the Corsair. I detail each of these visits just after in the article.
Visit the Castle and the History Museum
Once inside the city of Saint-Malo, the Château de Saint-Malo does not go unnoticed. This imposing building dates from the 8000th century and housed the History Museum of the City and the Malouin Country. In total, this museum has nearly XNUMX pieces relating the history of Saint-Malo, the culture and the lifestyles of the locals in the past.
Souvenirs of the biggest names in Saint-Malo are exhibited here: Jacques Cartier, Chateaubriand, Surcouf, ...
If you have the opportunity to climb to the top of the Grand Donjon, don't miss the exceptional view of Saint-Malo and its bay!
Today, the museum is being transferred to take place in a more appropriate place. The opening is planned by 2022.
Discover the residence of the Corsair
This is a visit not to be missed if you are interested in the world of corsairs: the Hôtel Magon, the Demeure de Corsaire. This XNUMXth century house is original. Indeed, it was spared during the bombings of the Second World War. You will be able to visit this house inside Saint-Malo and discover all the secrets that the corsairs could hide in their homes: secret staircases, entresols, … You will also learn more about the way of life and the activities of these people in the past.
For more information, visit the website of La Demeure de Corsaire
Also to visit: the Malouinière of La ChipaudièreThe Corsair François-Auguste Magon de La Lande was one of the most powerful corsairs and shipowners in Saint-Malo. In addition to the Demeure du Corsaire which we have just mentioned, François-Auguste Magon left another legacy to his descendants: the Malouinière de La Chipaudière. Always maintained and occupied by the Magon family, this beautiful 10th century Malouinière is located less than XNUMX kilometers from Saint-Malo and can be visited.
Photo credit: Patrivia. Visit the Chipaudière
Visit Saint Vincent Cathedral
Located on Place Jean de Chatillon, the founder of this building, Saint-Vincent Cathedral was built over a period ranging from the XNUMXth century to the XNUMXth century.
Destroyed during the Second World War, then rebuilt, it now houses the tomb of Jacques Cartier as well as the remains of Duguay-Trouin, which were brought back at the end of the XNUMXth century.
The interior is also worth seeing: the nave, the heart, the various stained glass windows or even a Virgin dating from the XNUMXth century are to be seen.
Visit the Fort National
This is one of the essential places to visit in Saint-Malo. This Fort National is accessible on foot, only at low tide. This is why I advise you, on the day of your visit, to remember to check the tide times and thus be able to organize your day in such a way as to get to Fort National when the tide goes out.
This place was built at the end of the XNUMXth century under the orders of Vauban. Its primary role was the defense of the port of Saint-Malo.
The site visit is guided: it is an opportunity to learn more about this construction, its role in history and its very close link with Saint-Malo. You can also contemplate Saint-Malo from another point of view, which is very pleasant. Allow about 35 minutes for this guided tour of Fort National.
Go to the islands of Grand-Bé and Petit-Bé
Arriving in Saint-Malo, these two islands are easily spotted. Like Fort National, these two islands are only accessible at low tide.
Grand Bé Island
Grand-Bé Island is the larger of the two. On the latter, you can go to the tomb of Chateaubriand. This monument is simple and modest but its location offers an admirable view over the bay and in the distance, along the Emerald Coast. You will also find an inscription on site: “A great French writer wanted to rest here to hear only the sea and the wind. Passing by, respect his last will.
I then invite you to head towards the island of Petit-Bé, just behind. On the latter is a fort, also built by Vauban. Recently renovated by an enthusiast, you can visit it.
Petit-Bé Island
Visit the Jacques Cartier Museum
We have spoken several times of a certain Jacques Cartier, this Malouin who discovered Canada.
Statue of Jacques Cartier on the ramparts
After this discovery, Jacques Cartier acquired a small farm a little outside Saint-Malo. Renovated and enlarged during the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries, it became a pretty manor house. This building now houses the museum dedicated to this character.
During the course of the XNUMXth century, this manor was bought by Canadian patrons. After having completely renovated it, the manor returned to the city of Saint-Malo.
Today you can visit this important place which presents the life of Jacques Cartier and his discovery of Canada, a major discovery for France and its history.
The visit to this place is guided, it is advisable to book your visit in advance.
It is in this same district, the district of Rothéneuf, that you will be able to observe strange Sculpted Rocks. They were made by Abbé Fouré at the end of the XNUMXth century. A path takes you to discover these astonishing sculptures.
Stroll on the beaches of Saint-Malo
When you visit Saint-Malo, you will quickly realize that this town is surrounded by water and therefore by beaches. The main beaches are those of Môle, located near the outer port; Bon Secours beach where there is a large seawater swimming pool with a diving board; the Sillon beach, also called the Grande Plage, it is on the latter that you will find the famous well-known breakwaters; further on, continuing after the Grande Plage, you will find the Minihic beach or the Pont beach.
Bon Secours beach in Saint-Malo and its seawater swimming pool
Depending on the beach you choose, the view of Saint-Malo will be different and you will have to watch out for the rising and falling tides.
Furrow Beach
Rest in thalassotherapy
To conclude on the things to do during your visit to Saint-Malo, I invite you to let yourself be tempted by a thalassotherapy. Indeed, Saint-Malo is famous for its marine thermal baths, along the Sillon beach. In addition to being ideally located, these thermal baths offer you a breathtaking view of the bay from its dining room, but also quality treatments: sauna, swimming pool, Aquatonic course, seaweed, etc.
Whether for a day, a weekend or an extended stay, this place is perfect for recharging your batteries and enjoying!
Quickly discover the thalasso of Saint-Malo and its benefits!What to do around Saint-Malo?
Now that we have covered the things to do during your visit to Saint-Malo, I invite you to look at what you can visit outside the city of Saint-Malo: visits, activities, …
What to visit around Saint-Malo?- Getting to the St-Servan-sur-Mer district
- Visit a typical Malouinière
- Visit the Saint-Malo aquarium
- Visit Dinard
- Go to Mont-Saint-Michel
- Visit Dinan
Getting to the St-Servan-sur-Mer district
This district, slightly outside of Saint-Malo, is actually the first town at the origin of Saint-Malo, formerly called Aleth. It was at the beginning of the XNUMXth century that the island of Saint-Malo was chosen over Aleth to transfer the bishopric there.
Here is an overview of things to do in St-Servan-sur-Mer:
- The Solidor Tower
Let's start with one of the essentials of this district: the Solidor Tower. Dating from the XNUMXth century, then renovated in the XNUMXth century, this tower was once a prison. Today, it houses the Long Cours Cap-Hornier museum. The latter traces the history of commercial shipping passing through Cape Horn from its discovery until the beginning of the XNUMXth century. - Port Solidor
Not far from the Solidor Tower, you can stroll along the port of the same name. Located opposite Dinard, you will have a beautiful view of the seaside resort. - Aleth's Corniche
Take this cornice and go around it. You will have a breathtaking view of many places such as the islands of Grand-Bé and Petit-Bé, Saint-Malo, Cap Fréhel in the distance or even Dinard, just opposite. - The 39/45 Memorial
This memorial takes place in a former blockhouse dating from the Second World War. Documents and objects exhibited allow us to trace this period of history, over approximately 500 m2. - The Rosais belvedere
From this belvedere, you will have a pleasant view of Dinard, the bay or even the Rance dam. - Briantais Park
St-Servan-sur-Mer is renowned for its green spaces. Here is a park of more than 27 ha which offers you an exceptional view of St-Servan-sur-Mer, the Solidor Tower, Dinard or the Rance valley. Inside this park, there is a castle dating from the XNUMXth century. It regularly hosts exhibitions.
Visit a typical Malouinière
I quickly presented this type of accommodation to you in the section relating to the typical architecture that you will be able to observe during your visit to Saint-Malo. As a reminder, the malouinières are typical houses built from the XNUMXth century onwards by wealthy shipowners and corsairs from Saint-Malo. They were usually located outside the city and served as a second home.
Visiting a malouinière in Saint-Malo is a must if you want to discover and understand life in the past.
For that, I advise you to go to the Malouinière de la Ville Bague in Saint-Coulomb or to the Malouinière du Puits Sauvage in the hamlet of St-Etienne.
These two buildings date from the XNUMXth century and take you through the history of the shipowners and corsairs of the time. Beautiful collections, faithful renovations of the time, rooms furnished as before or even magnificent well-maintained parks. Here is an overview of what you can discover during these visits.
These two malouinières offer guided tours.
Visit the Saint-Malo aquarium
If you are visiting Saint-Malo with children, then the aquarium can be a sensible activity. Located outside Saint-Malo, near the Rance dam, the Grand Aquarium offers different basins presenting several geographical areas around the world. The fish of the great cold, the corals of the Mediterranean, the shark basin or even the sunken vessel which serves as wreckage and shelter for the fish.
Another fun pool will arouse the curiosity of the youngest: the tactile pool. In the latter, you can touch local fish, that is to say present near the coast of Brittany.
A great enriching and fun experience for the little ones but also for the parents!
Visit Dinard
Dinard is located just opposite Saint-Malo. This seaside resort offers beautiful walks to discover its famous villas, but also a famous thalasso, charming beaches or a beautiful seawater swimming pool. The villas of Dinard are very famous and are about 400 classified in area protection. They majestically overlook the bay and offer their occupants breathtaking views, far from the tourist bustle of the city center.
If you want to learn more about this city, things to visit, places to sleep, … You can read our full article on Dinard.
Go to Mont-Saint-Michel
I don't think introductions are necessary with this architectural gem and one of the most popular tourist spots in France: Mont-Saint-Michel. Delicately placed in the middle of its bay, Mont-Saint-Michel is the ideal place for various activities:
- Visit the interior of Mont-Saint-Michel
In order to have a first glimpse of this place, I advise you to walk through the narrow streets of the center. Do not hesitate to climb on the ramparts and walk around them, the view of the bay is exceptional! - Visit the Abbey
Visiting the abbey is one of the essential things to do in Mont-Saint-Michel. It overlooks the Mont and its bay in a quite remarkable way. Once inside, discover the secrets it has been hiding for hundreds of years. - Hike in the bay
This is one of our favorite activities at Mont-Saint-Michel: a hike in the bay accompanied and explained by a local guide who shares his passion and knowledge. A real experience that I highly recommend! - Fly over Mont-Saint-Michel
Finally, take a little height to admire the Mont-Saint-Michel seen from the sky. Become aware of the size of the bay, discover the salt meadows, …
Visit Dinan
One of the most beautiful towns in the region: Dinan. We fell in love with this little medieval gem. The cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses are absolutely charming. With its fortifications and some 70 listed and protected monuments, Dinan now attracts a large number of visitors each year.
The latter enjoy a stroll through the streets of Dinan, visiting the castle but also its magnificent little port, at the bottom of one of the most touristic and famous streets of Dinan: rue du Jerzual.
Practical information for your visit
Now that I have presented to you all the things to do and visit in Saint-Malo, but also around Saint-Malo, here is a more practical part with questions that you are likely to ask yourself when organizing your visit to Saint Malo.
-
When to visit Saint-Malo?
Here is an essential question, which will probably help you in choosing the period in which you wish to visit Saint-Malo. Keep in mind that we are in Brittany, so the weather is changeable very quickly and rather humid throughout the year, but with mild temperatures whether in summer or winter. Anyway, the best time to visit Saint-Malo will be between April and October. Be aware that the months of July and August are very popular with tourists.
-
Where to sleep in Saint-Malo?
The question of accommodation is essential and important for your stay: in which district to go and why, which establishment to choose, … We answer all these questions and advise you on suitable accommodation in a detailed article on accommodation in Saint-Malo.
-
How to get to Saint-Malo?
The most practical way to come to Saint-Malo will be by car. Provide accommodation with parking if possible, otherwise plenty of parking is available around the inner city. Once there, you can get around on foot easily.
If you come from Dinard, the most practical and easiest way is to take the ferry that regularly connects the two towns.
Finally, Saint-Malo has a train station, so you can easily come by train. -
How long to visit Saint-Malo?
Saint-Malo is the ideal city to spend a pleasant weekend. Over two days you will have time to visit a large number of sites that I have presented to you previously, but you will also have time to enjoy the surroundings: the beach, the parks or even the thalassotherapy.
If you only have one day on the spot, then favor the city center, the island of Grand-Bé, the Fort National and the beach of Sillon. This will already give you a nice overview of the many surprises you can find in Saint-Malo.
My opinion on this visit
This visit to Saint-Malo was a very pleasant moment. This town and its small streets are very pretty. There are many things to do on site: museum, castle, promenade, beach, etc. And the history of Saint-Malo, between the discovery of Canada and the presence of corsairs, is really interesting and will fascinate more than one.
Add to all this, a very typical and local gastronomy that we all appreciate: pancakes and pancakes! Gourmets can enjoy themselves.
To conclude, visiting Saint-Malo is a must in Brittany, which I highly recommend, both for its culture, its history, its architecture and its richness of life.
