A stroll in Saint-Malo: from Intra-Muros to the Thermes Marins
In the narrow streets of Intra-Muros
From Domaine de La Ville Huchet, our 4-star campsite in Saint-Malo, Intra-Muros is just an 8-minute drive away. A perfect location for this stroll, which begins at the Porte Saint-Vincent, the iconic gateway to the corsair city. Once inside, take the time to leave behind the bustle of the terraces and shops and wander through quieter streets, revealing another side of Saint-Malo.
Set out in search of Rue Chateaubriand. At number 3 is the birthplace of François René de Chateaubriand. The name probably rings a bell. He was a native of the region. Born here in 1768, he later grew up at Combourg Castle, another stop that would be worth a future walk, as this small town of character is well worth a visit. Later, Chateaubriand chose to be laid to rest on the island of Grand Bé, which you will see from the ramparts.
Then continue on to Rue d’Asfeld, where the Demeure de Corsaire stands, also known as the Hôtel Magon de la Lande. We are now immersed in the 18th century, the golden age of the corsairs. Built in the 18th century for a shipowner of the French East India Company, it is the last corsair mansion in Saint Malo still open to visitors. Inside, you will discover grand wood paneled reception rooms, hidden staircases that always delight children, and cellars that once served as prison cells during the Revolution. It is a visit that brings back to life the era when the city drew its power from the sea and from its corsairs.
A little farther on, stop on Rue du Chat qui Danse. This picturesque name recalls a historical event from 1693: the English had launched a “hell machine,” a ship loaded with explosives intended to blow up Saint Malo. But the fire ship exploded before reaching the ramparts. The only victim was a cat. Enough to amuse the people of Saint Malo, proud of their resilience, and to give the street a playful name. Did you enjoy this anecdote? We recommend joining a guided tour with the Tourist Office, it is a great opportunity to learn many more stories as you wander through the streets of Saint Malo.
On the ramparts: a balcony overlooking the sea
You can now choose to go up onto the ramparts. If you feel like making the full circuit, allow around 1.7 km of walking, or about an hour at a leisurely pace. But you do not have to complete the whole loop, as each bastion offers its own share of views.
From the sea side, the view is truly exceptional. To the west, you can clearly see the Cité d’Aleth, mentioned in our first walk, perched on its peninsula. Opposite, across the Rance, the elegant villas of Dinard come into view. Right in front, Grand Bé and Petit Bé stand guard, while Fort National, built by Vauban in the seventeenth century, proudly watches over the Plage de l’Éventail.
Gaining some height here means understanding at a glance how deeply Saint Malo has been shaped by the sea.
Fort National and the Éventail Beach
Go back down through the Porte Saint Thomas to reach the Éventail beach. If the tide is low, you can walk over to Fort National. Built to protect the city, it was part of the defensive system designed by Vauban. Even today, its solid, imposing silhouette is impressive and a reminder of the city’s strategic importance.
⚠️ The passage is submerged at high tide. From La Ville Huchet, be sure to check the tide times before setting out, a habit our team recommends to all our holiday guests.
The Sillon, its breakwaters and villas
If you still have some energy, continue your walk along the Sillon, this vast beach that stretches for around 3 kilometers. This is where you will come across the famous oak breakwaters, stakes driven into the sand since the eighteenth century to break the force of the waves and protect the seawall. Their shape, battered by the tides, has become one of the most iconic images of Saint Malo. Stop for a moment. You never tire of it, especially when the light changes and the ocean roars behind them.
As you walk on, the beautiful seaside villas gradually come into view. With their turrets, bow windows, and enclosed gardens, they recall the time when Saint Malo attracted the first enthusiasts of sea bathing. We recommend looking up from time to time. These façades tell another story of the city, one that is more elegant and seaside oriented than that of the corsairs.
Arrival at the Thermes Marins
At the far end of the Sillon, you reach the Thermes Marins of Saint Malo. After a day of walking and exploring, it is the perfect reward. We recommend choosing the Aquatonic Circuit: massaging jets, heated seawater, dynamic pools, and more, a true treat for easing tired legs after the walk.
Just remember to book in advance. It is a very popular activity, and you will be glad you planned your moment of relaxation.
Are you staying at Domaine de La Ville Huchet ?
Our 4 star campsite in Saint Malo is an 8 minute drive from Porte Saint Vincent. An ideal base for exploring the city on foot, by bike, or by car, without the hassle of parking in the city center.