Map Of France Saint Malo
Introduction
Saint Malo is a coastal city in northwestern France known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Saint Malo has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Saint-Malo Cathedral
The Saint-Malo Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic church that dates back to the 12th century. Its stunning architecture and intricate stained-glass windows make it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and religious art.
Fort National
Fort National is a historic fortress located on a small island just off the coast of Saint Malo. The fortress was built in the 17th century to protect the city from invasion, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
Grand Aquarium
The Grand Aquarium is a fun and educational attraction for all ages. It features over 600 species of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles, as well as interactive exhibits and a touch tank.
Hidden Gems
Île de Cézembre
Île de Cézembre is a small island located just off the coast of Saint Malo. It’s a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists, but it offers stunning beaches, hiking trails, and even a World War II-era bunker to explore.
La Maison de la Poésie
La Maison de la Poésie is a charming bookstore and café that specializes in poetry. It’s a great spot to relax with a book and a cup of coffee, or attend one of their many poetry readings and cultural events.
Château de Saint-Malo
The Château de Saint-Malo is a beautiful historic castle that’s now home to a museum of local history and art. It’s a hidden gem that’s worth a visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Saint Malo.
Food Scene
Crêperie Saint-Malo
Crêperie Saint-Malo is a local favorite for traditional Breton crêpes. They offer a wide variety of sweet and savory options, as well as gluten-free and vegan options.
La Belle Epoque
La Belle Epoque is a chic restaurant that serves modern French cuisine with a creative twist. Their menu changes frequently to showcase seasonal ingredients, and they offer a great selection of wine and cocktails.
Les Fines Herbes
Les Fines Herbes is a cozy bistro that specializes in fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. They offer a daily changing menu that focuses on classic French dishes with a modern twist.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Walking Tours
Saint Malo offers several free walking tours that are a great way to explore the city on a budget. These tours are led by knowledgeable local guides and cover the city’s history, culture, and architecture.
Local Markets
Visiting the local markets is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine, and it’s also a budget-friendly option for food and souvenirs. The Saint Malo market is held every Tuesday and Friday, and features fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal products.
Beaches and Parks
Saint Malo has several beautiful beaches and parks that are free to visit. These include Plage du Sillon, which is one of the most popular beaches in the area, and Parc des Corbières, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
Outdoor Adventures
Kite Surfing
Saint Malo is a popular destination for kite surfing, thanks to its strong winds and wide beaches. There are several kite surfing schools and rental shops in the area, making it easy for beginners to get started.
Hiking and Biking
Saint Malo offers several scenic hiking and biking trails that are a great way to explore the surrounding countryside. The GR34 hiking trail follows the coast for over 2,000 kilometers, and offers stunning views of the sea and the cliffs.
Boat Tours
Boat tours are a great way to explore the coastline and nearby islands, and there are several options available in Saint Malo. These tours offer stunning views of the sea, the cliffs, and the historic fortresses that line the coast.
Family-Friendly Activities
Beach Activities
Saint Malo’s beaches offer plenty of activities for families, including swimming, sandcastle building, and beach games. There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas near the beaches.
Grand Aquarium
The Grand Aquarium is a great family-friendly attraction that’s both fun and educational. Kids will love seeing the sharks, rays, and sea turtles up close, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits and touch tanks to explore.
Château de Saint-Malo
The Château de Saint-Malo offers a great opportunity for kids to learn about the history and culture of the city. The museum features interactive exhibits and workshops that are designed for kids of all ages.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel is a stunning medieval abbey located about an hour’s drive from Saint Malo. It’s a popular tourist destination, but it’s still off the beaten path compared to other major attractions in the region.
Cancale
Cancale is a charming fishing village located about 20 kilometers from Saint Malo. It’s known for its delicious oysters and scenic coastal views, and it’s a great spot for a day trip or a romantic getaway.
Fort La Latte
Fort La Latte is a medieval fortress located on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. It’s a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists, but it offers stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region.
Natural Wonders
Cap Fréhel
Cap Fréhel is a stunning headland located about 25 kilometers from Saint Malo. It offers breathtaking views of the sea and the coastline, as well as several hiking trails and picnic areas.
Pointe du Grouin
Pointe du Grouin is a rocky headland located about 10 kilometers from Saint Malo. It’s a great spot for hiking and picnicking, and it offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
Île de Bréhat
Île de Bréhat is a beautiful island located off the coast of Brittany. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, including its colorful flowers, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
Vibrant Nightlife
Le Zinc
Le Zinc is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, great cocktails, and live music.
La Nuit de la Roquette
La Nuit de la Roquette is a trendy bar that’s popular with the younger crowd. It offers a great selection of craft beers and cocktails, as well as live DJ sets and other events.
Le Café des Tribunaux
Le Café des Tribunaux is a cozy bar that’s known for its great selection of wine and beer, as well as its friendly atmosphere and live music.
Local Markets
Marché des Lices
Marché des Lices is one of the largest markets in Brittany, and it’s a great place to experience local culture and cuisine. The market is held every Saturday morning, and features fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal products.
Marché aux Huitres
Marché aux Huitres is a market that’s dedicated to oysters. It’s held every Sunday morning, and offers a great opportunity to sample some of the region’s freshest and most delicious oysters.
Marché de Rocabey
Marché de Rocabey is a local market that’s held every Wednesday and Saturday morning. It features fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal products, as well as clothing, accessories, and other goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Pl