Situated along the rocky coastline of Brittany in northwest France, Saint Malo is a premium holiday destination for British tourists (especially families) who cross the English Channel to indulge in the resort lifestyle. Once a haven for nationally-funded pirates (corsairs), this heavily fortified city dates to the 6^th century and boasts an impressive maritime history. Heavily damaged during WWII, Saint Malo has undergone extensive reconstruction to restore its old-world charm.

Built as a port on a peninsula at the mouth of the Rance River, the old city (Intra-Muros) is protected by thick ramparts that span several centuries. One of the highlights of visiting this city is a walk along the ramparts, where views of the old quarter are backed by panoramic vistas of the rocky coastline and sea.

Many of the sights can be taken in on a walking tour of Intra-Muros. These tours begin at Porte St-Vincent and pass by the impressive Chateau de Saint Malo, home of the city’s historical museum. The narrowly winding medieval streets lead to St Vincent Cathedral, known for its vault of 1,160 naves. Numerous islets dot the coastline as well, many of which are accessible via an emerging causeway at low tide, such as Ile du Grand-Bé.

Expansive, sandy beaches dot the coastline, beginning just east of Intra-Muros with the expansive Grande Plage du Sillon. This and many other beaches are busy during peak tourist season (July and August), when tourists swim, sunbathe and engage in a myriad of water sports.

Accommodation in this resort-style region is in full supply. Quaint, historic inns are common in Intra-Muros, where patrons can walk out of their hotel and visit virtually all of the sites on foot. Upscale, four-star establishments are available as well, especially to the west in Dinard. Saint Malo can become quite crowded during peak season so advance booking is a must.

Easily accessed via high-speed TGV trains from Paris (three hours), Saint Malo also enjoys quick transportation links to many regional hubs. The airport in Dinard (eight miles west) receives domestic passengers as well as those hailing from across the English Channel. There are greater international connections available 45 miles (72kms) away in Rennes at Saint-Jaques International Airport.

Saint Malo is warmest from June to September, which is the official tourist season. During this time average temperatures approach 20°C, though daily highs may spike considerably higher. This is the best time to visit Brittany, though the influx of domestic tourists during July and August lead to large crowds. June and September are good months to visit, as crowds are less formidable and the weather remains pleasant.

Winters in Saint Malo are damp and somewhat lengthy. Average temperatures drop to just above 5°C from December to February, and average monthly rainfall during this time peaks at 75mm. Frost and snow are rare, even at this time. Bear in mind that many hotels and resorts close down during the winter.