A walk through the history of Saint-Malo
Saint Servan and the city of Aleth
If you had to choose just one, this might be it. It’s an accessible walk, full of charm, and takes you on a tour of historic Saint-Malo, far from the tourist trails.
The tour starts in the Saint-Servan district, just a few minutes’ drive from La Ville Huchet campsite. Less well known than the Intra-Muros, this district nevertheless has a real personality. A former independent commune, Saint-Servan has kept its soul of an old commercial port, with granite houses, small streets full of character and a local market, much appreciated by locals (Place Bouvet, Tuesday and Friday mornings).
You’ll start your walk at the foot of the Tour Solidor, standing proudly overlooking the Rance estuary. Built in the 14th century, this impressive tower once marked the strategic entrance to the town. Today, it watches over the yachts in the marina and offers a magnificent first view of Dinard, just opposite.
A promontory full of history and surprises
From the tower, the path takes you to the Cité d’Aleth, a place both peaceful and steeped in history. It was here that the first stones of Saint-Malo were laid, long before the construction of the Intra ramparts.
The remains of an ancient cathedral, Gallo-Roman walls and several fortification elements can still be seen. And for the more curious, a discreet bunker, a vestige of the Second World War, can still be seen in the heights.
But what makes the climb up to Aleth truly unique is the view that slowly unfolds. Little by little, as you turn the bend in the path, the Intra-Muros reveals itself below.
And it’s here, quite frankly, that Saint-Malo is perhaps at its most beautiful: seen from the outside. We discover its ramparts, its tightly-packed roofs, the distinctive spire of its cathedral…
Relaxation break, then on to the Intra-Muros
If you fancy a break en route, why not take a seat on the terrace of Point Zéro, a small guinguette set up during the summer months on the Cité d’Aleth. Here, you can enjoy a drink facing the sea, in a relaxed atmosphere, with a magnificent view of Dinard and the estuary. The perfect place to enjoy the moment.
From there, just walk down to the Bas Sablons, along the harbor. You’ll then reach the Intra-Muros. You’re free to continue your stroll along the ramparts or stroll through the lively streets of the historic center.
