Visit the ramparts of Saint-Malo
A few miles from Dinard, on the other side of the Rance River, stands the legendary pirate city of Saint-Malo. Its imposing granite ramparts, which have withstood the ravages of time and man, offer a fascinating insight into Brittany's maritime history. A true symbol of freedom and adventure, this fortified enclosure is an unmissable experience during your stay on the Emerald Coast.
Stretching for nearly 2 kilometers, the ramparts of Saint-Malo completely encircle the old town, offering a spectacular walking route accessible to all. This wall, which rises to a height of 12 meters, was built in the 12th century and then considerably reinforced by Vauban in the 17th century to protect the city from enemy attacks.
As you walk along this rampart walk, you can take in the dual identity of Saint-Malo at a glance: on the sea side, the immensity of the ocean that made the fortune of privateers and shipowners; on the town side, the maze of narrow streets and granite houses that tell the story of daily life in Saint-Malo through the centuries.
The ramparts circuit offers exceptional views that vary throughout the walk. From the Dinan Gate, admire the majestic silhouette of the Fort National, a marine sentinel accessible on foot at low tide. Continuing towards the Grande Porte, let yourself be captivated by the spectacle of the Grand Bé and Petit Bé islands, where the writer Chateaubriand is buried.
The northern part of the fortifications reveals the immensity of Sillon Beach and its monumental sea walls, while the Bastion de la Hollande offers a breathtaking view of Saint-Malo Bay and, on a clear day, as far as Dinard and Cap Fréhel.
The ramparts are not just a relic of the past, but a living place where the heart of Saint-Malo beats. In summer, the café terraces come alive at the foot of the walls, while musicians and street artists add a festive touch to your discovery. The many craft and local produce shops lining the adjacent streets invite you to take home a souvenir of your visit.
Don't miss the breathtaking spectacle of the high tides breaking against the walls. With a tidal range of up to 14 meters, these natural phenomena radically transform the landscape and offer an ever-changing picture.
Allow at least 1.5 hours to walk around the entire ramparts at a leisurely pace. The route is accessible free of charge all year round, from 9 a.m. until nightfall. To avoid the summer crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light enhances the golden stone of the fortifications.
From the Hôtel Le Crystal in Dinard, you can easily reach Saint-Malo by taking the sea shuttle (about a 10-minute crossing) or by car via the Rance dam (20 minutes). For a complete experience, combine your visit to the ramparts with a tour of the Maison du Corsaire and the city's history museum, which will enrich your understanding of this important site of Breton heritage.
Whether you are a history buff, a lover of exceptional panoramas, or simply looking for an unforgettable stroll, the ramparts of Saint-Malo promise you a journey back in time to the heart of France's most famous pirate city.
A historic walk between sky and sea
Stretching for nearly 2 kilometers, the ramparts of Saint-Malo completely encircle the old town, offering a spectacular walking route accessible to all. This wall, which rises to a height of 12 meters, was built in the 12th century and then considerably reinforced by Vauban in the 17th century to protect the city from enemy attacks.
As you walk along this rampart walk, you can take in the dual identity of Saint-Malo at a glance: on the sea side, the immensity of the ocean that made the fortune of privateers and shipowners; on the town side, the maze of narrow streets and granite houses that tell the story of daily life in Saint-Malo through the centuries.
Breathtaking panoramas
The ramparts circuit offers exceptional views that vary throughout the walk. From the Dinan Gate, admire the majestic silhouette of the Fort National, a marine sentinel accessible on foot at low tide. Continuing towards the Grande Porte, let yourself be captivated by the spectacle of the Grand Bé and Petit Bé islands, where the writer Chateaubriand is buried.
The northern part of the fortifications reveals the immensity of Sillon Beach and its monumental sea walls, while the Bastion de la Hollande offers a breathtaking view of Saint-Malo Bay and, on a clear day, as far as Dinard and Cap Fréhel.
A lively and vibrant site
The ramparts are not just a relic of the past, but a living place where the heart of Saint-Malo beats. In summer, the café terraces come alive at the foot of the walls, while musicians and street artists add a festive touch to your discovery. The many craft and local produce shops lining the adjacent streets invite you to take home a souvenir of your visit.
Don't miss the breathtaking spectacle of the high tides breaking against the walls. With a tidal range of up to 14 meters, these natural phenomena radically transform the landscape and offer an ever-changing picture.
Practical tips for your visit
Allow at least 1.5 hours to walk around the entire ramparts at a leisurely pace. The route is accessible free of charge all year round, from 9 a.m. until nightfall. To avoid the summer crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light enhances the golden stone of the fortifications.
From the Hôtel Le Crystal in Dinard, you can easily reach Saint-Malo by taking the sea shuttle (about a 10-minute crossing) or by car via the Rance dam (20 minutes). For a complete experience, combine your visit to the ramparts with a tour of the Maison du Corsaire and the city's history museum, which will enrich your understanding of this important site of Breton heritage.
Whether you are a history buff, a lover of exceptional panoramas, or simply looking for an unforgettable stroll, the ramparts of Saint-Malo promise you a journey back in time to the heart of France's most famous pirate city.
