is saint malo worth visiting

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 90, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style. The architectural is pretty typical of the region, with narrow cobblestone streets and granite buildings. Apr.24.2020 Antoine2K / Shutterstock Destinations Europe France Saint-Malo, in the northwestern French region of Brittany on the English Channel Coast, has a history dating back to the first century B.C., and its history is as tumultuous as it is fascinating. Of all the Cathedrals in France, there are of course many stunning and historical ecclesiastical buildings worth venturing into. Walk down Rue Jezebal in the early morning or evening. The fort was made a historic site in 1921 and lay abandoned until 2000 when it was handed over to a local tourism board. On a long weekend in May, we set out to explore one of the cutest spots in northern France - Saint Malo in beautiful Brittany. Hours later, the blue sky merges with the deep cobalt sea as the tide recedes, exposing broad beaches and creating . If anyone can recommend a great place for oysters as well as inexpensive (but still good) places to stay, that would be fantastic! After run-ins with the Romans, the city later became the notorious seat of the French corsairs. The best French crepes come from Brittany. June 2019 The lovely port city of Saint Malo is a popular tourist destination and one of the jewels of the Brittany coast. Saint-Malo is a great place for a day trip, but I recommend a few days of proper exploration to get the most out of your time. The Gallo-Roman port made way for a city founded on an island in the 12th century. It's said that St Malo earned a lot of money from local extortion and overseas adventures. var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; With one of the world's greatest tidal ranges, brewing storms under blackened skies see waves lash the top of the ramparts ringing its beautiful walled city. Saint-Malo is the citys patron saint as well as pig-keepers. If youre looking for a secluded beach getaway, Saint Malo would not be my first recommendation. Curious to find out more, I quickly opened up a search engine! There is a ferry to Jersey and trains to lots of different destinations. Do not resist the urge to enter and have a taste. Hotel France & Chateaubriand. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. Must-try seafood from Brittany includesMoules Marinires (Cancale Mussels)andCotriade (a kind of fish stew). There is so much beauty waiting for you in Saint-Malo! At night, a bell tower sounded the curfew bell, and mastiff dogs were let loose to chase outliers back into their homes. It's a walled city and has a long history of piracy. In the majestic cobblestone of Rue de lOrme, you will find a butter paradise. Today, the ruins of a small fortress lie on the island when forces were stationed here. If you had three weeks in the Brittany area. When across, you can visit Fort National on one island, and the tomb of the writer and politician Chateaubriand on the other. The traffic free footpath is close to a supermarket with fresh bread and cheese. There is also Bouche en Folie at 14 rue du Boyer that is a friendly family-managed restaurant with a great menu. Saint Malo is a charming town. Cathedrale de Saint-Malo: worth a visit - See 674 traveler reviews, 837 candid photos, and great deals for Saint-Malo, France, at Tripadvisor. This place is known for its expanded strip of sandy beaches (de la Hoguette and Plage du Sillon), for its sea spa (Les Thermes Marins de Saint-Malo). Spend one week in Dinan, one week in Saint Malo, and one week further west. Check the best Saint-Malo accommodation prices here. Today, the Northern France town is popular among holidaymakers thanks to its stunning vistas and wealth of things to do. I was wondering if I come on Sunday, will I still have acccess to all the worth seeing attractions? If you happen to visit Saint Malo on a Tuesday or Friday morning, dont miss the chance to visit the market (7). On the edge of the town center is Htel du Chteau, which is an easy drive with parking. })(document, 'script', '//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js'); Eloise is the creator and writer of MyFavouriteEscapes.com. The turret was constructed as early as the 15th-century, while the house itself was demolished and reconstructed at a later date. Of all the best things to do in Saint Malo, one of the top activities is to sit, stay and watch the waves roll in at the beach. Eglise Saint-Maclou is a twin-towered structure with an embellishing porch that bears Renaissance-era wooden doors decorated . A charming and characterful stay is Le Logis du Jerzual, a B&B with great breakfast and friendly owners. Saint Malo is also famous for its incredible tides, some of the largest in the world, which send waves crashing into the city walls. Dinan, on the other hand, is a river port. Although the population tends to hover around 150,000, it can swell to well above 200,000 at the high peak of tourist season. Her advice about international travel, outdoor sports, and African safari has been featured on Lonely Planet, Business Insider, and Readers Digest. The content published on this website may be out of date, and things may have changed since my last visit. At times the climb is steep, but you can catch your breath on the various floors on the way up. Is Saint-Malo Worth Visiting? - France Travel Blog Saint-Malo is a historic French port town in the region of Brittany. Walking them takes about 2 hours and gives you a view over the city and the huge tides coming in and out. Arriving early, before 9 am, will give you more of a chance to park closer to the city wall. Reasons why Saint-Malo is definitely worth visiting. Bayeux Cathedral and tapestry are also points of interest. Visit Cancale - Saint-Malo With Love Apparently I'm not alone, so I decided to make a website out of it and share my experiences and research. Learn more about Natasha Alden on The World Pursuit About Us Page. If you have any flexibility as to when you visit Saint-Malo, take a look at the tidal calendar and pick a day when low tide is during the day. s.type = 'text/javascript'; The Maison Hussaye is allegedly the oldest house still standing in the city. Every weekend is an adventure: you don't always have to go far to travel! Among the choicest venues is La Belle poque on rue de Dinan. The enthralling mast-filled port town of St-Malo is a dramatic sight. How To Spend A Perfect Day In Saint-Malo, France - TravelAwaits This beautiful port on the English Channel was the main port of the French kingdom for three centuries and has been a popular seaside destination since the 1930s. Worth Visiting - Cathedrale de Saint-Malo This website contains affiliate links, often indicated by *. then you simply must read All the Light We Cannot See by Antony Doerr. Worth Visiting - Review of Cathedrale de Saint-Malo - Tripadvisor Why Saint Malo is worth visiting: Explore the charms of this coastal gem Fort National stands on llette, a small rocky island off the citys coast. Its a must-visit attraction and makes for a perfect addition to a weekend getaway in Saint-Malo. Nowadays it's a popular tourist destination and has ferries from Portsmouth, Weymouth and Pool in the UK direct to St Malo. Saint-Malo is a seaside resort feeling and many activities. Walking the 2 km stretch atop the walls offers a breathtaking view of the harbour, the bay, and the city centre. Saint-Malo in France is a children-friendly, ravishing small town. Built by the Dukes of Brittany in the 15th and 16th centuries, the Chateau de Saint-Malo is not only a great-looking fortified castle, but it also holds the citys history museum, with its many interesting and eclectic exhibits. Frankfurt Or Hamburg: Which City To Choose For A Short Stay? Its presumed that she was once an inhabitant of the rich bourgeoisie who once inhabited the mansion. From Saint Malo you can visit Cancale. Just south of the city is a free entry tidal barrage worth seeing it takes about half an hour. For fans of all seafood-related dishes, then its worth noting that due to Saint Malos proximity to the sea, theres plenty of restaurants serving a sea-inspired menu inside the walled city. At night, the city lights up with a vibrant street life. It has been popular as a tourist destination since the 1930s, so the beaches can get quite crowded. The beautiful Saint-Malo in France is almost thirty minutes by car from Rennes. The hotel is comfortable and clean but has nothing special otherwise. Back before there were proper street names, it was common to refer to roads and streets by the monuments located by or on them. We'll be visiting St. Malo either this May or October. The citys residents who took to the seas made a great deal of profit from attacking ships on the high seas, looting and plundering as they went. Many people prefer Dinan for its central location. She writes about her experiences exploring exotic destinations and finding hidden gems closer to home. For a one-night stay, I highly recommend choosing a hotel within the walls of Saint-Malo intra-muros. Saint-Malo is a great place for a day trip, but I recommend a few days of proper exploration to get the most out of your time. Grand B is another tidal island just north of the citys coastline. Get your camera ready the views are simply superb. In another place in the Brittany area, there are several stories of sinners, saints, and star-crossed lovers. A great food stop with seafood, oysters and mussel farming. But thats not all! You are travelling and trying activities at your own risk. Visit Saint-Malo: 10 things to do in the corsair city Cancale isnt too touristy. If you love reading fiction books with a twist of history (and are also a francophile at heart!) For me, definitely more worth while to visit St-Malo; I was so disappointed by MSM and St-Malo is a lovely walled town with nice walks, beaches and eateries. It was initially the site of a lighthouse as well as criminal torture (which fortunately is no longer the case) until it became a bastion under the plans of the military architect Vauban. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, its medieval architecture, and its vibrant cultural scene. This sight can be taken in without too many crowds. For more wanderlust inspiration, check out our guide to the best day trips from Saint-Malo. We hope to inspire other independent travelers and provide them with the resources to do so. It has historic mansions overlooking oceans. When you visit the Grand Aquarium, you will see more than 10,000 fishes. While strolling amongst the old citys lanes, you are bound to see several bakeries and restaurants dealing in local specialties. The town feels like more of a place people live. A modern hotel located in the walled city of Saint Malo. Reserve ahead because the tiny independent restaurants fill up fast both on and off season. Brittany travel guide Pro Tip: When you get the warning to leave the islands because the tide is incoming, do heed it. I don't care about the shops or food that much. Inside the walls, youll find many restaurants serving great local food, especially seafood. Those who prefer a calmer city find Dinan full of character with a Medieval quaintness, although there isnt as much to do.Saint Malo is livelier and more interesting, some people wish theyd stayed in St Malo instead. She is an expert in travel, budgeting, and finding unique experiences. We will arrive in Rennes in the morning, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It was founded by the Gauls remember Asterix and Obelix? Outside the city wall are some more sights such as the 39-45 Bunker Memorial. You can even take a straight train from Rennes to get to Saint-Malo in close to an hour. 15 BEST Things To Do In Saint-Malo, France (2023) - The World Pursuit The islands history is fascinating. Crperie La Touline, situated at 6 Place de la Poissonnerie is a quaint small restaurant in the central area. His grave faces to the West, towards the sea. The walks out during low tide are memorable. Alongside your food, try locally made calvados or cider or even Breton beer. And an inexpensive B&B or hotel with parking in St. Malo would be super-fantastic! From Saint Malo you can take a boat to Dinard (10 mins across the river) or to Dinan, though only part of the year you can always take the bus from the train station the rest of the time. The coastal forts are part of the destinations of the widely-known boat trips that work out of the Saint-Malo when the tide is in. On Old Postcards of the town, the tower is often referred to as House of Duchess Anne, leading me to wonder who exactly Anne was! Things to Do in Saint Malo France (St Malo) - Misadventures with Andi It soon came to be known as Regincaor Aletum by the Romans. If you cycle or walk down the riverside, you will see half-timbered houses. The old town was a real surprise when we visited it recently, and is a very worthwhile stopping off point, P.S. 35 BEST Things To Do In Chamonix (France) In 2023. Not too far from Switzerland, and right on the border with Italy, its easily one of the most beautiful places, 15 BEST Things To Do In Saint-Malo, France (2023), 35 Best Things To Do In Chamonix (France), 35 Fun Facts About France You Should Know, 15 Best Hikes in France Ultimate Hiking in France Guide, How to Get From Paris to Mont St Michel + Helpful Tips, 30 Interesting & FUN Facts About Poland You Should Know, 16 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis. The discovery of its assets allows tourists to have an unforgettable stay just 16 kilometers from Dinard and Saint Malo located to the west. Posted on Last updated: 27th January 2022. The loop is 1.2 miles long, but with the many viewpoints and historical attractions such as cannons and gardens along the way, you should spend at least 1 to 2 hours enjoying this unique walk. Saint Malo Or Dinan: Which To Choose For Visiting Brittany? Last Updated on 27th January 2022 by Sophie Nadeau. Learning a few simple words like hello, please, thank you, and sorry is a great place to start. Writers and historians also come here to respect the Romantic writer Chateaubriand, who was buried on the island per his last request. Even mines remain; therefore, parts of the former fortress are off-limits. To avoid any inconvenience, make sure to book accommodations, tours, and restaurants in advance during the peak season. But if time is limited, we're happy to just spend time in St. Malo as I recall the atmosphere is quite romantic. Those who love sweet desserts should also sample Kouign-Amann, a local pastry made from plenty of sugar and dollops of butter. Brittany specializes in crepes and cider. worth visiting with a 1 year old? - Saint-Malo Forum Petit B is also a tidal islandand is approachable from the mainland via foot at low tide. Bring all your beach provisions like towels, snacks, and sunblock. In the intramuros theres many amenities and more to do. P.S. You can even hop onboard the Etoile du Roy. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Visit the authentic Rumeli Kavagi to experience another facet of Istanbul, Day trip from Paris to Normandy and Mont St Michel, my recommended places to visit in Brittany, Discovering the wonders of Saint Malo: Top points of interest to visit, Map of the points of interest in Saint Malo. s.async = true; Saint-Malo Saint-Malo This quintessential Breton port is a former island near the mainland. If youre looking to visit Saint Malo on your next French choice then youve made a great choice! You can walk along the walls, admire the sea, or go shopping. Saint-Malo and Dinan are both beautiful cities worth seeing. There is also Ar Koad on rue du Boyer, where whiskey lovers should not skip. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to the world, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. Cathedrale de Saint-Malo: Worth Visiting - See 674 traveller reviews, 837 candid photos, and great deals for Saint-Malo, France, at Tripadvisor. While this can seem a bit inconvenient, it helps add to the sense of mystery and will make getting there all the more worthwhile once you arrive. One of the most recommended places to stay in Dinan is Hotel La DAvaugour. One of the best things about France is that each region has its own unique vibe, culture, cuisine and sometimes even language. Today, the remains are evident in the thousands of bomb craters. Today, visitors can stroll around the medieval fortifications that make up the old town centre and enjoy the stunning views of Saint Malo beaches, which are particularly popular in the summer. Pin it now, read it again later. FinlandTimo: Thanks for the tip! Take your time and climb all the way to the top. If you have an interest in history, love Northern France, and are on the lookout for a quirky getaway, then perhaps you should consider taking the time to visit Saint-Malo in Brittany. Staying inside the old city wall is a unique experience so look for hotels within the walls. With beautiful beaches, travelers can go sea swimming and walk along the shore. Cathedrale de Saint-Malo: Worth Visiting - See 674 traveler reviews, 837 candid photos, and great deals for Saint-Malo, France, at Tripadvisor. The Cathedral of Saint-Malo dates all the way back to the 12th-century, is filled with some stunning stained glass windows, and is dedicated toSaint Vincent of Saragossa. The bus ride to Saint-Malo only costs 1.30. By Fab 06/26/2023 06/26/2023 Fab 06/26/2023 06/26/2023 I'm Jesse, I've lived in and traveled to many different countries, and each time around I've done tons of research on the different places I could visit. Dinan is a larger place than I would usually stay in, but either that or the interesting historical port of St Malo, the charming seaside resort of Dinard or the pretty inland small town of Dol-de-Bretagne would all be good bases to explore the area. Visit Saint-Malo | Brittany tourism Dinan is a quieter town so there is plenty of parking, adjoining the town. Both cities are tourist-driven so some businesses only open on weekends in the low season. In Saint Malo you feel the weight of history. Its only a short walk away to the old walls.. Saint-Malo is one of the places to be in Brittany, and it is worth multiple visits. Like with any walled city, one of the greatest attractions of the city is the walled ramparts themselves! 1. Construction of the wall started as early as the 12th century, protecting it from pirates and would be invaders ever since. Therefore, it is not surprising to discover that the city has several tasty crperies. In the high season, the large number of tourists can make driving a real headache. In order to help you get by, I recommend bringing along a simple French Phrasebooklike this one. I love my region for its stunning landscape and rich culture, but exploring local cuisine is definitely one of the best things to do in Brittany. 1. Inside, youll find the tomb of Jacques Cartier, the French explorer who departed from Saint Malo on his expedition to discover Canada. Here are Some of the Things That Make Rouen Worth Visiting Appreciate Cathdrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. All rights reserved. Saint-Malo is a port town so a visit to the town means a visit to the port. Much of what can be seen is a fairly faithful reproduction built between 1948 and 1960. Both Saint Malo and Dinan give you easy access to many places around the area. I will receive a commission if you make a purchase using this link but this does not affect the price you pay. Dinan, a city along the river, is a quieter choice with a charming Medieval atmosphere. During the Second World War, it was a fortified island mainly used by German soldiers and was heavily bombed by Allied forces. >>Also Read: What is Brittany Famous For? s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); In the 1100s, construction began, and one can reach them from St Vincent Gates steps. From a blue-painted storefront at La Maison du Beurre, Monsieur Bordier deals in the widely known butter. If you ever feel so inclined, the fort can be reserved for gatherings or other events for up to 150 guests. Having travelled quite a bit, I could easily say this is my favourite place in a long time. And then do it again and pop down to check out the various sets of steps to the city below. Today, it is a museum showcasing dozens of artifacts (including navigational instruments) for tourists interested in seeing this piece of history. Saint-Malo. Walking up the ramparts and exploring the town If you book early enough in advance, youll be able to score a perfect one! While the dog technique was later eradicated, the nearby bell tower still sounds at 10 pm each night. In Brittany, make time for a sweet crepe preferably with Nutella, so adored in France or opt for a savory galette, a crepe made from buckwheat flour and served with savory ingredients such as cheese, fried eggs, ham, and mushrooms. The sculptor was a 19th-century priest who left his post after becoming deaf and mute (the result of a stroke) and dedicated the remaining 15 years of his life to creating these rock sculptures of pirates, sea monsters, smugglers, and other creatures from fantasy. A Guide to the Best Things to do in Saint Malo, Brittany - solosophie Worth Visiting - Review of Cathedrale de Saint-Malo Both cities are great choices for traveling Brittany and the Normandy Regions. Visitors who rely on any information from this website do so at their own risk. Its a luxury stay that is worth it. We didnt know what to expect when we pulled into the charming and historic town of Saint-Malo. Families visiting Saint Malo during the summer months often take a break from sightseeing to enjoy the towns picturesque beaches with their children. We love getting to off-the-beaten-path destinations and arent afraid to go it alone. If youre coming from the UK, there are direct boat connections from Poole (near Bournemouth), Portsmouth, Jersey, and Guernsey. While its worth visiting Saint Malo during the peak season in summer for the chance of lovely weather, it can be very busy from mid-July to mid-August. When you climb up, you will instantly know why this place was selected as there are splendid views all round, and when the tide is low, nothing stops you from walking out. Dinan is an absolute gem that should not be missed if you have time during your visit to Brittany. Parking is limited in Saint Malo. Colmar Or Strasbourg: Which To Stay In For 3-4 Days. Saint Malo has highly recommended hotels such as the France et Chateaubriand. For a seaside town, with ramparts, the beaches of Saint Malo are surprisingly large, albeit packed. Well worth a read before you visit! She grew up in France and has lived in England and Turkey before calling Australia home for the past decade. However, as St Malo can get pretty busy, especially during the peak season (i.e. They repeatedly refused to be ruled by France, or even by Breton laws at a local level. Travelers also recommend Hotel Beaufort for its seaview room and fantastic balcony. Try Creperie Ahna for lunch with daily specials. The city is simply magnificent at that time. She loves outdoor and nature-based activities like scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, and sailing. An affordable place travelers often recommend is Hotel Arvor Dinan. In WWII Saint Malo was bombed to the point where it was almost completely wiped off the map. Highlights of Brittany and nearby Normandy dairy includePont-lEveque, Livarot, Brillat-Savarin, Port Hi. Thanks to its status as a top Brittany attraction, the town and its surrounds have no shortage of well-rated accommodations to suit every budget. It is possible to take a break . If youre visiting Brittany in the French Northwest for a few days, you may be wondering whether to choose Saint Malo or Dinan as a base camp. Explore the ramparts of Saint-Malo. Is Rouen Worth Visiting? - France Travel Blog In ancient times, La Grand Porte has a well-preserved iron gate and quaint pulleys to open the door by lifting it. Book a visit Brittany has an exceptional coastline with many beaches, fishing villages and islands, a remarkable historical heritage to be seen in the towns and villages and some of the finest prehistoric landmarks in the world - just a few of the reasons why so many people visit Brittany year after year! The seafront has restaurants, bars, and stalls overlooking Baie Mont Saint Michel. High and imposing, the ramparts encircle the entire town. Travelers have to park far away from the reconstructed historical core. Now, if youre wondering what a privateer is, its basically a fancy word for pirate! Nadeau Pasquier LTD. All Rights Reserved. During the day, follow the cobbled lane into town, there are cafes and restaurants along the Rance. We set out on a road trip from Paris for a couple of days, heading north to a world that seems to be light years away from the City of Lights. While walls around Brittanys most beautiful towns are not uncommon, the ramparts in Saint Malo are truly remarkable. As a coastal town, it has several great fresh kinds of seafood. The Maison du Quebec right on the ramparts focuses on the life of Saint-Malos native son, Jacques Cartier, the explorer and navigator. Cathedrale de Saint-Malo: Worth Visiting - See 671 traveler reviews, 833 candid photos, and great deals for Saint-Malo, France, at Tripadvisor. 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