Saint-Malo, also known as the corsair city (Cité Corsaire), is a maritime city enclosed by its impressive ramparts. This exceptional town is a hub for prestigious races, a leisure port, a beach resort and boasts a rich and unique heritage.
Its exceptional maritime character is enhanced by its status as a fortified city, creating a fascinating and unforgettable destination. Dive into the rich history and enchanting architecture when you visit and discover all that Saint-Malo has to offer.
Key takeaways on why Saint-Malo is famous :
- Saint-Malo is a historic maritime city with stunning ramparts and a unique heritage.
- The city offers a variety of attractions, including prestigious races, leisure ports, a thalassotherapy center and beach resorts.
- Explore museums, manors, and family activities to fully experience the charm of Saint-Malo.
The Corsair City (La Cité Corsaire)
Saint-Malo, a historic maritime city, traces its origins back to the 6th century when a Welsh monk named Maclow became the bishop of Alet, the ancient birthplace of the present-day city.
In the late 15th century, the Duchy of Brittany was annexed to the Kingdom of France by Anne of Brittany, paving the way for prosperity in the 17th and 18th centuries through trade with India, China, Africa, and the Americas.
With prominent Corsairs like Duguay-Trouin and Surcouf, the fame of Saint-Malo increased significantly. Although the city’s port and old city (Intra-Muros) were largely destroyed in the battles of 1944, Saint-Malo reinvented itself into a major hub of tourism in Brittany and the primary port on its northern coast.
On October 26, 1967, the Grand Saint-Malo was born through the amalgamation of Saint-Malo Intra-Muros, Saint-Servan, Paramé, and Rothéneuf.
When visiting this famed Corsair City, you can explore its rich surroundings:
- In Saint-Servan, discover the city of Aleth with its peninsula that overlooks the Saint-Malo/Dinard Bay and the Rance. The Solidor Tower forms a fortified ensemble that includes an entrance bastion and three towers from the 14th century erected by Duke Jean V of Brittany.
- Enjoy the seaside walkway known as La Digue that connects the old city to Paramé.
- Marvel at Rothéneuf’s Sculpted Rocks, the remarkable work of Abbé Fouré.
- Immerse yourself in the region’s history with visits to distinctive Malouinières, such as the Puits Sauvage and Chipaudière.
As you explore the ramparts and bastions of the Corsair City, you’ll be surrounded by the rich maritime past that has defined the greatness of Saint-Malo, while embracing its new identity as a thriving tourist destination.
The ramparts of Saint-Malo
The ramparts of Saint-Malo are a strong part of its history. Classified as historic monuments, they include eight gates, three bastions and three posterns, which also give us an idea of the usefulness and functioning of this wall in past eras.
The walk on the ramparts of Saint-Malo lasts around 1 hour for a complete tour of the walls, the loop of which extends for around two kilometers. From the ramparts, you will have a breathtaking view of the inner city as well as the sea.
Porte Saint-Thomas is a good starting point for your walk, behind Place Chateaubriand. It offers you a splendid view of the Sillon beach, the Fort National, and the Grand Bé islet.
The Route du Rhum race
Saint-Malo is famous for hosting notable events, such as the Route du Rhum race, held every four years. The race always starts at Saint-Malo and you can admire the competitors’ boats during the 10 days preceding the race (these days are very crowded in Saint-Malo). The last race took place in november 2022
With 29 km of coastline, bays, and estuaries, Saint-Malo offers a prime location for various water activities suited for all ages and skill levels. As a result, the city has earned the prestigious “France Station Nautique” quality label.
The high tides in Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo’s geography also allows it to boast the largest tides in Europe. When the massive Atlantic Ocean rushes into the English Channel, the tidal wave gains strength and speed. The tidal range (the difference between high and low tide) is over 12 meters on average around Saint-Malo.
To appreciate the awe-inspiring sight of these great tides in Saint-Malo, come visit during spring and autumn for a breath of fresh air while enjoying the spectacular display.
Remember to explore the city’s bustling marina, where you can learn about its rich maritime history and admire the skillful navigators that made Saint-Malo famous.