Discover here all that Monsieur de France presents on Brittany and its departments of Ille et Vilaine, Finistère, Morbihan, Côtes d'Armor, destinations like Rennes, Saint Malo, Brest, Saint Brieuc, Vannes, Tréguier, Paimpol, Quimper, Dinard, Dinan, Carnac...
Illustration photo: Photo by Jacques Le Goff on Unsplash
In Saint-Malo, the islands are more than just rocks; they are the guardians of the city's history. From the romantic solitude of Grand Bé to the military genius of Petit Bé and Fort National, or the wild beauty of Cézembre, each island offers a unique escape. This guide explains how to reach these gems—either by foot at low tide or by shuttle boat—and what you shouldn't miss on each to experience the true soul of the Emerald Coast.
Saint-Malo is “the pirate city” and is emblematic of Brittany and especially the Emerald Coast. Built on a rock, surrounded by ramparts and facing the sea, it fascinates travelers with its historical heritage and seascapes. This city has character! And it literally takes you on a journey while staying by the sea. In two days, you can discover the essentials of the pirate city, savor its gastronomy, and soak up the Breton atmosphere. This detailed guide is based on 20 years of enjoyment in Saint Malo. It includes half-day itineraries, advice on choosing your neighborhood, romantic and family-friendly ideas, local specialties to try, and activities for rainy days.
In Saint-Malo, the Grandes Marées (Giant Tides) transform the Emerald Coast into a breathtaking natural theater. The sea retreats for miles, revealing a hidden lunar landscape, before rushing back with incredible power. To truly experience this phenomenon, you need to know where to stand, when to arrive, and how to read the local tide charts. Bundle up, grab your camera, and let’s explore the magic of the French coast!
The French coastline offers one of the most magnificent natural spectacles in the world: the tides. But beyond the beauty of landscapes that transform in a matter of hours, knowing how to anticipate the movement of the water is crucial for every visitor. Whether you are preparing for a shellfishing trip in Normandy or a walk along the ramparts of Saint-Malo, the tide coefficient is the indicator you must master.
In this comprehensive guide, I will explain how to read a tide table like a pro, anticipate the 2026 King Tides (Grandes Marées), and understand the celestial dance between the Earth and the Moon that dictates the pulse of our shores.
Saint-Malo is unforgettable—but the real magic starts just outside the ramparts. Within one hour you can reach elegant seaside resorts, oyster ports, medieval towns and dramatic cliffs on the Emerald Coast. This guide lists 15 easy escapes, grouped by mood (sea, villages, heritage), with realistic travel times by car or train, quick “why go” tips and GPS points so you can plan a perfect day trip without wasting time.
Stepping into Saint-Malo Intra-Muros is like traveling back to the golden age of privateers and grand explorers. This historic heart of the Corsair City, entirely encircled by majestic granite ramparts, stands as a fortress between the land and the English Channel. But what does "Intra-Muros" actually mean for a visitor today, and how can you experience its best views and secrets without wasting a moment?
Whether you have one hour to walk the city walls or a full day to get lost in its cobblestone streets, this guide reveals every secret of the "Ville Close." From the iconic Porte Saint-Vincent to the hidden shipowners' mansions and the final resting place of Jacques Cartier, I have gathered the stories and tips that make the Malouine rock truly unique.
What is Saint-Malo famous for? Known as the "Privateer City" (Cité Corsaire), Saint-Malo is famous for its massive granit walls, its independent spirit, and the explorer Jacques Cartier who discovered Canada. Once a 4-year independent republic, it was rebuilt stone-by-stone after 1944.
Rennes is the capital of Brittany. In fact, it's the capital of Brittany. Rennes' elegant city center dates back to the 18th century. Rennes is a very dynamic metropolis, a major student city in France. Here, you can walk, stroll, laugh and eat. And above all, you'll discover a city that loves to welcome.
Looking for sea, culture and great views? Dinard opens its doors to you for an unforgettable weekend on the Emerald Coast. Sumptuous villas, seaside strolls, remarkable heritage... this Breton seaside resort has everything you need for a charming and relaxing stay.
Article updated on January 29, 2026
Dinard was originally a small hamlet belonging to a Breton village called Saint Enogat. A small hamlet with a small port called “Dinard,” it was long nothing more than a crossing point over the Rance River to Saint Malo. It was in the 19th century, with the invention of tourism by the English, that it became one of the most exclusive spots in Europe.
