Holidays in St Malo
Brittany’s family-friendly fortress by the sea
Within the mighty granite ramparts of St Malo lies a city that perfectly captures the spirit of maritime Brittany, but don’t worry, soft golden sands are never far away here! This former stronghold, rising defiantly from the emerald waters of the English Channel, offers a thrilling blend of swashbuckling history, tidal beach drama, and modern Breton holiday resort charm. What we particularly love about St Malo is how it manages to be both a living, breathing city and a captivating holiday destination - where kids can storm the ramparts pretending to be pirates in the morning, and families (or couples) can watch the spectacular tide races while enjoying fresh seafood in the evening.
The old town (they call it ‘intra-muros’ or ‘within the walls’) is a masterpiece of reconstruction, lovingly rebuilt after World War II to recreate its Corsair-era grandeur (the corsairs were French privateers). Wandering the cobbled streets within the walls, past elegant granite mansions and bustling squares, you'll understand why this city has captured imaginations for centuries. Add in the natural drama of some of Europe's highest tides, gorgeous beaches that appear and disappear with the sea, and excellent family attractions, and you have a destination that offers something fresh to discover every day.
Is St Malo for you?
- Stay within reach of a walled city and combine beach life with cultural exploration
- Watch dramatic tides and discover pirate history
- A beach holiday with a history and maritime adventure
Fun things to do in St Malo
Walk the ramparts
The 1.8km circuit of St Malo's walls offers spectacular views across the city, beaches, and out to the fort-topped islands. Time your walk for sunset when the golden light hits the granite walls, or early morning when you might catch local children practising sailing in the bay.
Beach life
The Grande Plage stretches between the old town and the Paramé district, offering vast expanses of sand at low tide. The seawater swimming pool at Bon-Secours beach provides safe bathing even when the tide is out, while rock pools around the ramparts become natural aquariums waiting to be explored.
Maritime discoveries
Visit the Grand Aquarium to discover the marine life of the Channel, take a boat trip to the islands of Grand Bé or Petit Bé with its Vauban fort, or learn about the city's seafaring history at the History Museum in the castle.
Our favourite
Watch the spectacular tide race from the ramparts (St Malo has some of the highest tides in Europe), then head to the bustling Place Chateaubriand for moules-frites and local cider at one of the atmospheric restaurants. The combination of natural drama and Breton’s superb cuisine perfectly captures St Malo's essence.
Day trips from St Malo
The fairy-tale island abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is just 45 minutes away - time your visit with the tides for the most dramatic views. The oyster beds of Cancale offer fresh seafood and coastal walks, while the medieval town of Dinan, with its half-timbered houses and artisan shops, makes for a perfect inland excursion.
The elegant resort of Dinard, just across the bay, offers belle époque architecture and more great beaches. For nature lovers, Cap Fréhel's dramatic cliffs and lighthouse provide spectacular coastal walking, while the pink granite coast around Ploumanac'h shows off some of Brittany's most stunning scenery.
If you like St Malo, you might like
La Rochelle
Another historic port city with impressive towers guarding its entrance, combining maritime heritage with modern attractions and excellent seafood. It’s a great place for families, with plenty of attractions to enjoy.
La Trinité-sur-Mer
A charming fishing village turned resort in southern Brittany where world-class yachts mingle with traditional fishing boats. Expect bustling marina, exceptional seafood restaurants and stunning beaches.
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