The villas of Dinard make the city famous and some owners have a real passion for them. The only strict rule imposed by the architects of French buildings (a state organization intended to preserve the architecture of historic monuments) on owners is to maintain the authenticity on the outside.
The origin of villas in Dinard
Dinard, once a small fishing village, transformed into a renowned seaside resort in the mid-19th century, attracting wealthy British and French families for leisurely beach vacations.
Villas, hotels, casinos and tourist facilities were multiplying and quickly changed the appearance of the city. By the late 1880s, Dinard had become the meeting place for national and international high society, hosting royalty, nobles, prominent business figures, and artists.
Today, Dinard retains its exceptional seaside heritage, characterized by its stunning villas that line the coast, showcasing a unique eclectic architectural style. These majestic villas are now part of a protection zone.
The Malouine Development (lotissement de la Malouine)
In 1879, Edmé d’Audiffret-Pasquier sold his chateau’s park, La Malouine, to Auguste Poussineau. In the 1880s, Poussineau collaborated with architect Alexandre Angier in creating several impressive villas, including Belle Assise, Roche-Plate, Roche-Brune, and Bel-Esbat.
Some of these properties were sold unbuilt, such as Vélox and Ker Annick, designed by another architect for the Boucheporn family. Another architect, named Bénard, built the famous villa Bambino.
The Sea Villas Development (lotissement des Villas de la mer)
The Villas de la Mer private housing development initially encompassed a smaller area in the Saint-Enogat district, extending from the eastern part of Saint-Enogat beach to Port-Riou beach.
Founded by Victor Hugo’s publisher Albert Lacroix in 1875, the development included:
- the Grand Hôtel de la Mer,
- attached villas for rent,
- three residential buildings
- and a bathhouse.
Villa La Garde
Built in 1897 for Jacques Hennessy, a renowned cognac merchant, Villa La Garde stands as an architectural landmark on the Emerald coast.
Architect Alexandre Angier designed this grand villa modeled after an English castle, following the “gothic revival” movement. The luxurious vacation château features a large central hall, ideal for hosting balls and concerts and other relaxation areas such as a billiard room and library.
Villa Greystones
In 1938, Michel Roux-Spitz designed his villa in Dinard, which he occupied until his death in 1957. This unique project, utilizing granite and reconstituted stone, integrates with the surrounding environment. The villa and garden create a beautiful and cohesive space, with the Neptune basin being a notable focal point.
The name of the villa, Greystones, comes from the old villa built there. This beautiful residence is both a haven of peace facing the interior and a citadel facing the sea.
In Dinard, you’ll find an array of historic attractions — villas, hotels, casinos and cultural events like the British Film Festival. All these establish Dinard as an ideal destination for tourists seeking a glimpse of Belle Époque opulence.