The historic city of Saint Malo is built upon a granite rock overlooking the English Channel, and many of the city’s attractions date back several centuries. The city ramparts and 14^th century tower are two of the most impressive ancient structures. A string of islets radiating from the mouth of the Rance are accessible only at low-tide. Much of Saint Malo’s ancient infrastructure was damaged during WWII, though an impressive reconstruction campaign has restored the city’s long-established charm.

City Ramparts
The impressive city walls that guard Saint Malo’s old city were built in stages throughout previous centuries. The oldest remaining portions of the ramparts date to the 1300s, though much of what stands today was rebuilt in the 1600s and has been further renovated in recent years. Perched on the ramparts, you’ll have a commanding view of the bay and its islets.

Ile du Grand-Bé
This tidal island is accessible via a 15-minute walk across a land bridge at low tide. The writer and father of Romanticism in French literature, François-René de Chateaubriand, is buried on the far side of the island in a tomb facing the sea. Those wishing to visit the island at low tide can begin their walk at Bon-Secours Beach.

La Tour Solidor
Solidor Tower was built in the 14^th century as a means of regulating access to the Rance River. Over the years, the fortification dropped its military duties and took on the role of a prison. Today, it serves a more cultured role as a naval museum dedicated to the historic explorations of Cape Horn by sailors from Breton.

National Fort 
Designed and built by Sébastien de Vauban in the late 17^th century, this fort guards the Saint Malo coastline from its offshore vantage point on an outlying islet. Often referred to as the ‘Bastille of Brittany’, this enormous fortress and dungeon is accessible by a walkway that emerges at low tide. Thirty-minute tours are available, though their timetables change with the shifting tides. Phone: +33 2 99 85 34 33.

Parc de la Briantais
This 67-acre park dates to the mid-17^th century, when it was founded here on a hill overlooking the Rance and Solidor Tower. Home to a diverse collection of flora and fauna, including rabbits, badgers, foxes and red squirrels, Briantais Park is an excellent place to while away an hour or two away from the peak-season crowds.