Saint-Malo was an absolute revelation for me, perhaps because of the glorious weather that day or the thrill of flying a drone over its stunning landscape. I highly recommend dedicating at least half a day to exploring this enchanting destination. Picture yourself strolling along the beach and the gracefully curved pier (Figure 5).
Outside the fortified walls of Saint-Malo, you’ll find a large paid parking lot, though securing free parking near the old town can be quite a challenge. Nestled in the Ille-et-Vilaine department of Brittany, France, the pirate city of Saint-Malo stands majestically on a granite reef between the Brittany region and the English Channel.
Once a notorious haven for pirates, it earned fame for its bustling community of seafaring adventurers. Since medieval times, Saint-Malo has been a formidable maritime stronghold, aptly described by French writer Gustave Flaubert as a “stone crown rising from the waves.” In 1944, the ravages of war nearly obliterated the old town of Saint-Malo.
What we marvel at today is a meticulous reconstruction from the remnants of its storied past. The ground floor of most buildings in the old town now houses an array of shops—restaurants, souvenir boutiques, and clothing stores seamlessly woven together, creating an inviting atmosphere for leisurely exploration.
The Walls of Saint-Malo: Encircling the town are the iconic old city walls, stretching approximately two kilometers. Constructed in the 12th century when Saint-Malo defiantly resisted annexation by the Duchy of Brittany (at the time, its inhabitants were neither Bretons nor French), these fortifications have withstood the test of time.
During World War II, their robust structure shielded them from Nazi bombings, though the old city within succumbed to artillery devastation. Post-war, the French painstakingly rebuilt the old town, restoring it to its former splendor. The walls offer the finest vantage point to admire the old town’s beauty, much of which can be explored freely, including the majestic main gates.
As you traverse the walls, breathtaking views of the Rance River estuary and the picturesque small islands along the eastern coast of the English Channel await.
The National Fort: Out at sea lies the National Fort, a formidable bastion constructed in 1689 by the renowned military architect Vauban to safeguard Saint-Malo’s port. The tidal fluctuations around Saint-Malo are dramatic, allowing visitors to walk to the National Fort when the tide recedes, offering a unique experience.
Just beyond the old city walls, two tiny islands dot the waters—Grand Bé and Petit Bé. Similar to the National Fort, Grand Bé is a tidal island connected to the old town by an artificial causeway, accessible on foot during low tide. This island holds special significance as the birthplace of French writer François-René de Chateaubriand, whose tomb graces the site.
On Petit Bé, you’ll discover a defensive fort erected in the 17th century, another masterpiece designed by the ingenious architect Vauban.
St. Vincent Cathedral: Beyond the walls, a visit to St. Vincent Cathedral is a must-see highlight. As the seat of the Bishop of Saint-Malo, this Roman Catholic church exudes grandeur. That day, the sunlight cast a magical glow, illuminating the stained glass windows and transforming the interior into a breathtaking spectacle of vibrant hues.
