Thursday, April 10, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Saint-Malo, France

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Saint-Malo, France.

SAINT-MALO, FRANCE
The ‘Pirate City’
Ship sails flutter in the breeze at the natural port of Saint-Malo, a historic and resilient walled city that watches out over golden sands and island fortresses. Strung tenuously to the mainland, Saint-Malo was the historic home of a rowdy mix of skilled sailors, new world explorers, and the plunderers who earned the place its ‘Pirate City’ title. Some of history’s great voyages have launched from here, including Jacques Cartier’s, which led to the settlement of New France and modern-day Quebec.

Founded by a Welsh monk, who made his way here in the 6th century, Saint-Malo’s castle is forged from sheer granite, and its steep defensive ramparts rise defiantly. The atmospheric walled town turns its back on the mainland and gazes longingly into the sea.

Explore streets that breathe with maritime tales and medieval charm, restored from the intense damage sustained during the Second World War. Cathédrale de St Malo rises above the tight paths, offering views of the peppered islands and fortifications. Boatloads of fresh oysters and scallops are heaved ashore – savour them or grab savoury crepes galettes, stuffed with cheese and ham. Wash Saint-Malo’s foods down with a Brittany cider, which challenges wine as the indulgence of choice in these parts.
A highly tidal region, the pocket-sized islands of Petit Bé and Grand Bé join the mainland, and you can explore at leisure as the tide recedes. The incredible island of Mont Saint Michel also looms in the estuary of the Couesnon River nearby, hovering like a cinematic mirage above high tide’s waters. Elsewhere, Cap Fréhel’s lush green peninsula juts out from the emerald coast towards Jersey, tempting with rich coastal hiking trails.

SIGHTS
• X Les Remparts de Saint-Malo
• Grand Aquarium Saint-Malo
• Saint-Vincent Cathedral of Saint-Malo
• Grand Bé
• Solidor Tower
• Demeure de Corsaire (Museum)
• Jacques Cartier Museum
• Plage du Mole
• Parc de la Briantais
• Petit Be Fort
• Champs-Vauvert Cavalier
• Bon Secours beach
• House Quebec

SHOPPING AND CUISINE
There are many shops spread throughout the city. You can find local products. The shopping malls of Saint-Malo are the ideal choice for an enjoyable shopping tour among the finest and most famous international brands. These malls allow you to purchase fashion products, perfumes, electronics, souvenirs, etc. There are three main shopping malls in town: Centre commercial La Découverte, Centre Commercial La Madeleine, and Centre Commercial Le Cezembre.

Today’s Excursion – Walking Saint Malo & Sweet Touch
Embrace the Old World beauty and flavours of Saint Malo on foot during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Saint Malo, Old City, Castle, Ramparts, House of Duchess Ann, and Cathedral.

Our walking tour of Saint-Malo strolls around the quaint, narrow streets of the Old City, seeing sites of historical interest, including the castle, part of the ramparts protecting the town, the town’s typical streets, the house of Duchess Ann, and the Cathedral. In addition, learn about some of the town’s past luminaries, including Jacques Cartier, Duguay-Trouin, Surcouf, and the renowned romantic writer Châteaubriand.

Rampart Walk, Creperie, and Crepes and Cider
Next, stroll along the ramparts, then proceed to a creperie inside the city walls for a crepe with a glass of cider (or soda).
Following your refreshment stop, continue your walking tour, which concludes back at the pier.

Dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant