"Saint Malo - Gateway to Mont St. Michel" Saint-Malo by MikeAtSea

Situated at the mouth of the Rance River, Saint Malo is one of the prime tourist destinations in Brittany. In the 17th and 18th centuries, this Channel port was already of great importance for merchant ships and government-sanctioned pirates, more politely known as privateers.
Saint Malo was the home of the famous explorer, Jacques Cartier, who sailed from here to explore and colonize Canada. Today, visitors flock to Saint Malo to experience the unique “intra-muros” (meaning within the walls) streets of the citadel. Much of the old town’s appearance is due to faithful reconstruction after heavy bombings destroyed Saint Malo in 1944. Only the ramparts withstood the ravages of war and are original for the most part.
Exploration of the old town should include the Saint Vincent Cathedral, noted for its medieval and modern stained-glass windows, and the museum in the Château de Saint Malo. Exhibits illustrate the city’s most prosperous time during its notorious heydays of piracy, colonialism and slave trading. Various staircases allow access to the ramparts, affording great views over the rooftops and the harbour.
About 25 miles south of Saint Malo is the medieval town of Dinan. Once totally surrounded by ramparts, there are still 14 towers left and a good part of the walls encircling beautiful 15th-century timbered houses.
Saint Malo also serves as a gateway for excursions to the legendary Mont Saint Michel, one of France’s most spectacular monuments.
St. Michel is one of the most stunning monuments in France, often called the “Marvel of the Western World.” St. Michel is an hour’s drive away from St. Malo. The monastery was founded in the 10th century as the result of a dream vision. Three centuries later, the Abbey was added. From its very top gleams the gilded statue of Saint Michael. On my visit we visited the various aspects of the abbey. Numerous rooms and chapels all used by monks in ancient times can today be explored. The views across the Atlantic from the top of the abbey are quiet spectacular.

CUISINE
Saint Malo boasts numerous good restaurants, especially along the ramparts. Some of the region’s typical meals include crêpes served in traditional crêperies. Fresh seafood is also a good choice. Since this is such a popular tourist destination, prices are generally high.
OTHER SIGHTS
Explore the streets of the old town and get a city overview from atop the ramparts. Access to the ramparts is available from Porte de Dinan, the Grande Porte and Porte Saint Vincent.
Musée de la Ville
Located next to the Porte Saint Vincent, the museum specializes in the history of the city and the area around Saint Malo.
Cathédrale Saint Vincent
Begun in the 11th century, the church is noted for its medieval and modern stained-glass windows.
Aquarium
The town’s latest attraction is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Its location is approximately 15 minutes by car from Saint Malo.