Dinard, a renowned coastal town, boasts breathtaking Belle Epoque villas that continue to charm visitors today. Located on the picturesque Emerald Coast, this elegant and timeless destination entices people with its captivating views of the Rance River and Saint-Malo.
The allure of Dinard, combined with its undeniable beauty and grace, makes you wonder about its history and the town’s heritage. Step back in time as you stroll along the scenic Ecluse beach (Plage de l’Ecluse), absorbing the atmosphere and traces of history that still linger there.
Key Takeaways
- Dinard is known for its stunning Belle Epoque villas and enchanting views
- The town’s history and charm are particularly evident at Plage de l’Ecluse
- Visiting Dinard offers a glimpse into its rich past, providing an unforgettable experience
Dinard History
Once upon a time, Dinard was a humble fishing port and village living in the shadows of Saint Malo, a major corsair city. Legend has it that King Arthur landed on Dinard’s shores in 513 and constructed a fort, giving birth to the city of Dinard.
The First British Tourists
One of the first explorers of the town was an American aristocrat, William Faber, who frequently visited Dinan. He fell in love with the picturesque coastline and decided to settle in Dinard. He built the “little terraces” on the Moulinet coast, selling them to his English-speaking friends in Dinan.
When William Faber passed away prematurely in 1854, his wife Lyona Faber continued his legacy by selling land plots and developing property in Dinard. She donated land for the construction of Saint Bartholomew’s Anglican Church. The first beachfront villa was built in 1858 by James Erhart Coppinger. This marked the beginning of Dinard as a British seaside resort.
The Golden Age of the Dinard Resort
In the 1880s, Dinard became the top beach resort in France, experiencing its golden age. Dinard became known as the “Pearl of the Emerald Coast” and hosted various aristocrats, politicians, and intellectuals from all over Europe.
Cosmopolitan guests would stay in luxurious hotels and private villas built during this period. Dinard boasted modern amenities, such as running water, electricity, and telephone lines, which were rare luxuries at the time. Infrastructure, such as the Bec de la Vallée pier, the yacht club and the Moonlight walk (Clair de lune promenade) which replaces the old suspended and unsafe footbridge, were developed to accommodate the increasing number of tourists.
The Fallen Dreams and Dinard’s Decline
From the beginning of the 20th century, the Vicomté-en-Dinard company brought together architects, entrepreneurs, and Parisian developers with the ambition of creating a new fashionable district in Dinard. The plan was to build a lavish neighborhood complete with a casino, public gardens, shopping centers, tennis courts, glamorous villas, and palatial hotels.
However, the 1929 economic crisis brought an end to this grandiose plan. Consequently, the casino was demolished, and the Beauvallon hotel was converted into a condominium. The other hotels, villas, and shopping centers were never built.
Starting in the 1930s, Dinard faced a decline as the British aristocracy began to prefer the French Riviera for its Mediterranean climate. Dinard gradually fell into obscurity, with only the grand villas still standing as a testament to its glorious past.
Dinard Today
Today, Dinard’s municipality continues to focus on tourism development. The city is no longer reserved for the wealthy families of the past. By showcasing its local heritage, Dinard has successfully managed to strengthen its attractiveness as a tourist destination.
In 2002, Dinard received the label of “City of Art and History.” Since then, the city has put great emphasis on its history and cultural heritage as a means of attracting visitors.