Top 10 must-see cultural places near Saint-Malo

The Menhir of Champ-Dolent: an impressive Neolithic monument

Don't miss the Menhir de Champ-Dolent, located near Dol-de-Bretagne on the splendid Emerald Coast. This imposing menhir is one of the largest in Brittany and bears witness to the fascinating history of the Neolithic period.

The Menhir de Champ-Dolent is a granite monolith measuring nearly 9.5 metres high and weighing around 100 tonnes. Dating from the Neolithic period, it was erected between 4500 and 2500 BC and is a testament to the importance of this prehistoric period for the region. This menhir is not only an exceptional example of megalithic architecture, but it also offers a unique insight into the culture and beliefs of the ancient peoples who inhabited the region.

The Menhir de Champ-Dolent is surrounded by many legends and local stories. Some say that this menhir was thrown by Gargantua, a giant from French mythology, while others evoke druids and pagan ceremonies. By visiting this mysterious site, you will be able to let your imagination run wild and immerse yourself in the myths and legends of Brittany.

The Menhir de Champ-Dolent is located just a few kilometers from Dol-de-Bretagne and about 30 minutes by car from Saint-Malo. You can also get there by bike or by taking the hiking trails. Near the menhir, you will find other cultural and historical sites to visit, such as the Saint-Samson Cathedral of Dol-de-Bretagne, Mont-Dol, or the charming town of Dinan.

Did you know?

• Megalithic alignments : Although the Menhir de Champ-Dolent is the most impressive and best-preserved monument in the region, it was once part of a larger megalithic alignment. The other menhirs that accompanied it have unfortunately been destroyed or moved over time, but some researchers believe that they were once arranged in a specific pattern, perhaps related to solar and lunar cycles or astronomical events.
• Archaeological excavations : Archaeological excavations around the Menhir de Champ-Dolent have revealed interesting objects, such as pottery, flint tools and polished axes, which testify to human activity on the site and the importance of the menhir for the local populations. Research suggests that the site could have served as a place of gathering, worship or burial.
• Site protection : The Menhir de Champ-Dolent has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1889, demonstrating the importance given to preserving this unique heritage. Measures have been taken to protect the site from damage and to facilitate access for visitors.
• Meaning of the name : The name "Champ-Dolent" could have several origins. Some believe that it comes from the Old French "champ dolant", which means "field of pain" or "field of mourning", referring to the hypothesis that the menhir could mark a place of burial or commemoration. Others believe that the name could be linked to the nearby town of Dol-de-Bretagne.

The Dolmen of Roche aux Fées: travel through time to discover a fascinating megalithic monument

Located in Essé, in Ille-et-Vilaine, the Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées is one of the most remarkable megalithic monuments in Brittany. This impressive and mysterious historical site will take you back in time, to the time when our ancestors erected these gigantic stones for purposes that are still poorly understood.

The Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées is considered one of the largest and best preserved in France. It is approximately 20 metres long and is made up of 42 monumental stones, some of which weigh more than 45 tonnes. This prehistoric monument, dating from the Neolithic period (around 3,500 years before our era), bears witness to the ingenuity and know-how of our ancestors.

The Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées is surrounded by many legends and popular stories. According to local tradition, the fairies built this monument in a single night, carrying the stones on men's backs from miles away. Other legends say that the dolmen is a meeting place for fairies and witches.

The purpose of the construction of the Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées remains a mystery. Archaeologists believe that it could have served as a collective burial place, a place of worship or an astronomical site. Indeed, the orientation of the dolmen suggests that it was used to observe the stars and astronomical phenomena. How our ancestors managed to move and assemble these gigantic stones is also a question that still raises many questions.

The Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées is located in a preserved natural setting and offers an unforgettable experience to visitors. The hike to access the site crosses bucolic landscapes and allows you to admire the local flora and fauna. The interpretation panels installed on the site will help you better understand the history and legends surrounding this prehistoric monument.

Did you know? :

• A winter solstice alignment : The Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées is oriented in such a way that, during the winter solstice, the sun's rays penetrate directly into the burial chamber. This particularity testifies to the astronomical knowledge of our ancestors and the importance given to celestial phenomena.
• The "sounding" stones : Some of the monumental stones of the Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées produce unusual sounds when struck. These stones, called "sounding stones" or "musical stones", were intentionally selected by the builders for their acoustic properties, although their precise meaning remains a mystery.
• Ancient graffiti : On some stones of the Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées, you can see graffiti dating back several centuries. These marks bear witness to the attraction that this monument has always had on visitors, and the fascination that it still arouses today.
• A hidden treasure?: According to a local legend, a treasure is hidden under one of the stones of the Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées. This story, although probably imaginary, fuels the mysterious aura that surrounds this prehistoric site.
• A study site for researchers : The Dolmen de la Roche aux Fées is a subject of study for many researchers in archaeology, history and astronomy. The site is regularly the scene of excavations and experiments aimed at uncovering the secrets of its construction and use.

The 39-45 Museum in Plougonvelin: a dive into the history of the Second World War in Brittany

If you are passionate about history and want to explore a fascinating cultural site near Saint-Malo, the Musée 39-45 in Plougonvelin is a must-see. Located in a former German bunker, this museum traces the history of World War II in Brittany and presents an impressive collection of objects and uniforms from the time. In this article, discover this unique museum and its role in preserving the historical memory of the region.

The Musée 39-45 in Plougonvelin is housed in a former Second World War bunker, part of the Atlantic Wall built by the German occupying forces. This authentic location offers an exceptional setting for a museum dedicated to this period of history, and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the time.

The Museum presents a collection of varied objects, uniforms, documents, photographs and weapons from the Second World War. These pieces have been carefully preserved and restored, allowing visitors to better understand the daily lives of soldiers and civilians during this troubled period. The museum also covers topics such as the Resistance, the Occupation and the Liberation of Brittany, offering a comprehensive overview of this crucial period in history.

The Musée 39-45 in Plougonvelin is located about a 2-hour drive from Saint-Malo, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Take advantage of your visit to explore the surrounding area and discover the cultural and natural riches of the region. Don't miss the Pointe Saint-Mathieu, an impressive natural site with its lighthouse and abbey ruins, or the Fort de Bertheaume, a historic fortification offering panoramic views of the coast.

To book your tickets: https://www.tourismebretagne.com/offres/musee-memoires-39-45-plougonvelin-fr-1985335/

Did you know? :

• A focus on the Breton Resistance : The 39-45 Museum gives a significant place to the Breton Resistance and its heroic actions during the Occupation. Information panels and period objects trace the history of local resistance networks, acts of sabotage and the battles led by the Free French Forces. A way of paying tribute to these men and women who fought for freedom and dignity.
• Temporary exhibitions to deepen your knowledge : The Musée 39-45 regularly offers temporary exhibitions on specific themes related to the Second World War in Brittany. These exhibitions, often enriched by conferences and meetings with historians, allow you to deepen your knowledge of lesser-known aspects of this period, such as the landing operations in Brittany or the role of women in the Resistance.
• An exceptional setting with a breathtaking view of the sea : Finally, it would be a shame not to mention the exceptional setting of the Musée 39-45 in Plougonvelin. Located on the Pointe de Bertheaume, the museum offers a breathtaking view of the Iroise Sea and the Breton coast. A unique opportunity to discover the historical and natural heritage of the region in a single visit.

The Moulin de Mordreuc: a witness to Breton ingenuity on the banks of the Rance

The Moulin de Mordreuc, a tide mill located on the banks of the Rance, is a place not to be missed. This mill is a testament to the ingenuity of the Bretons in exploiting the natural resources of the region and is open to the public during certain periods of the year. In this article, discover the history of the Moulin de Mordreuc and its importance in the region.

The Moulin de Mordreuc is a tidal mill built in the 15th century, which was used to grind cereals using the power of the tide. It is located on the banks of the Rance, near the town of Pleudihen-sur-Rance. This mill bears witness to the importance of tidal mills in the local economy of the time.

The Mill is open to the public during certain periods of the year, particularly during the European Heritage Days and the Mill Days. It is fair to say that it is rather rare to visit it, so if you have the opportunity to go, go for it!

During your visit, you will be able to discover how the mill works, its mechanism and its history, thanks to explanatory panels and demonstrations. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful setting of the banks of the Rance and observe the local flora and fauna.

Take advantage of your visit to explore the surrounding area and discover other places of interest, such as the picturesque village of Saint-Suliac, the Rance Valley, or the Maison de la Rance, an interpretation center dedicated to the environment and local heritage.

Did you know? :

• The little-known origin of the name "Mordreuc" : The name "Mordreuc" is of Breton origin and means "the jaw of the dragon" (mor: sea, and dreuc: jaw). According to a local legend, a dragon lived in the Rance, protecting the inhabitants from invaders. The Moulin de Mordreuc is said to have been named in homage to this legendary protector.
• A hybrid and innovative mill : The Moulin de Mordreuc is a hybrid mill, operating using both wind and water power. This dual energy source made it a particularly efficient and versatile mill for Breton millers. Although this configuration is no longer in use today, it is a testament to the ingenuity of the craftsmen of the time.
• A secret refuge for resistance fighters during the Second World War : During the Second World War, the Moulin de Mordreuc is said to have served as a secret refuge for members of the local Resistance. The attic of the mill, difficult to access and hidden from the occupants, allowed resistance fighters to meet, plan actions and store equipment. This little-known aspect of the mill's history bears witness to the importance of heritage sites in the fight for freedom.
• An innovative milling process that has now disappeared : The Moulin de Mordreuc was once equipped with a milling mechanism that was revolutionary for its time, allowing grain to be ground with unmatched precision and efficiency. Unfortunately, this mechanism was lost over time and remains a mystery to experts today. Research continues to try to reconstruct this technical feat.
• A rehabilitation project in progress : The Moulin de Mordreuc, now abandoned, is the subject of an ambitious rehabilitation project. History and heritage enthusiasts are working to breathe new life into this witness to Breton ingenuity, by restoring the original mechanisms and creating a reception area for visitors. The aim is to make the mill a place for the exchange and transmission of local know-how.

The Malouinière of the Ville Bague: a jewel of Malouinière architecture.

Located near Saint-Malo, this 18th-century residence is a remarkable example of Malouinière architecture. Open to visitors and offering temporary exhibitions, the Malouinière de la Ville Bague will immerse you in the history and refinement of this era.

La Malouinière de la Ville Bague is a residence built in the 18th century, typical of the Malouinière architecture. These residences were the property of the shipowners and merchants of Saint-Malo, who found there a haven of peace outside the city walls. La Ville Bague is a beautiful example of this architecture, with its granite facades, its slate roof, its French gardens and its outbuildings.

La Malouinière is open for visits, which will allow you to discover the different rooms of the house, as well as the gardens and outbuildings. The visits are often guided and will allow you to learn more about the history of the malouinière, its architecture and the daily life of its occupants. La Malouinière de la Ville Bague also hosts temporary exhibitions, highlighting the art, history or culture of the region.

It is located just a 15-minute drive from Saint-Malo. Take advantage of your visit to explore the surrounding area and discover other places of interest, such as the beaches of Saint-Coulomb, the Pointe du Grouin, or the village of Cancale, famous for its oysters and maritime heritage.

For information regarding visits : https://www.la-ville-bague.com/

Did you know? :

• A Malouinière built by a privateer : The Malouinière de la Ville Bague was built between 1715 and 1723 by François Gouyon, a famous privateer of the time. This building bears witness to the wealth and prestige acquired by the Saint-Malo privateers thanks to their maritime exploits. The malouinières were generally second homes for these personalities, who took advantage of their peaceful setting to rest between two expeditions.
• A secret and refined French garden : The garden of La Malouinière de la Ville Bague is a hidden treasure, designed in the French style of the 18th century. Its paths, flowerbeds and groves are arranged in a symmetrical and harmonious manner. This garden also houses a rare collection of exotic plants, testifying to the interest of shipowners and privateers from Saint-Malo for species from elsewhere.
• A symbol hidden in the façade : The façade of the Malouinière de la Ville Bague bears in its centre a coat of arms decorated with a marine anchor, symbolising François Gouyon's profession as a privateer. This discreet reference to the career of the master of the place recalls the importance of maritime activities in the history of Saint-Malo and its surroundings.
• A secret tunnel connecting the Malouinière to the coast : According to some sources, a secret tunnel connects the Malouinière de la Ville Bague to the coast. This underground passage was used by privateers to discreetly transport their goods and escape the authorities in case of danger. Although the existence of this tunnel has not been formally proven, this legend contributes to the mystique surrounding the Malouinières and the privateers.
• Ghosts and legends : Finally, the Malouinière de la Ville Bague is surrounded by tales of ghosts and local legends. Some say that the spirit of François Gouyon, the privateer builder, still haunts the place, watching over his estate and its hidden treasures. Other stories evoke mysterious apparitions and strange noises in the house and its gardens.

The Little Museum of Cancale: immerse yourself in the history of Cancale fishermen

Housed in a former school, this museum traces the history of Cancale and its fishermen through objects and photographs. In this article, discover this exciting cultural place and prepare yourself to dive into the maritime history of Cancale.

This museum aims to preserve and transmit the history of Cancale and its fishermen, by highlighting the traditions, know-how and fishing techniques that have shaped this port town.

During your visit to the Petit Musée de Cancale, you will be able to discover a varied collection of objects, photographs and documents relating to the history of fishing in Cancale. You will learn more about the different fishing techniques used over time, the emblematic boats of the region, as well as the daily life of fishermen and their families. The museum also offers temporary exhibitions and activities for all ages, in order to offer a fun and interactive experience to visitors.

Take advantage of your visit to explore the surrounding area and discover other places of interest, such as the port of La Houle, the oyster parks of Cancale, or the Pointe du Grouin, a natural site offering a panoramic view of the bay of Mont Saint-Michel.

To learn more about this place full of history : http://adelarose.free.fr/aabvc-musee.html

Did you know? :

• A preserved traditional Cancale boat : Among the objects exhibited at the Petit Musée de Cancale, one of the most remarkable is an authentic Cancale fishing boat, called "la Cancalaise". This boat, which dates from the beginning of the 20th century, bears witness to the know-how of local craftsmen and the way of life of fishermen of the time.
• Traditional costumes of Cancale women : The Petit Musée de Cancale also presents a collection of traditional costumes worn by Cancale women over the past centuries. These outfits, with bright colors and embroidered patterns, reflect the cultural richness and identity of the region. Among these costumes, the Cancale headdress, decorated with lace, is particularly impressive.
• The amazing story of the rescue of the shipwrecked "Rigel" : The museum retraces the amazing story of the rescue of the shipwrecked Norwegian ship "Rigel", which sank off the coast of Cancale in 1928. During this perilous operation, the Cancale fishermen showed bravery and solidarity by rescuing the sailors in distress. This story highlights the mutual aid and courage of local fishermen in the face of the dangers of the sea.
• The ancestral technique of shore fishing : The Petit Musée de Cancale highlights the ancestral technique of shore fishing, which consists of harvesting shellfish and crustaceans on rocks and beaches at low tide. This practice, typical of the region, is still practiced today by local residents and fishermen. The museum even offers workshops to introduce visitors to this traditional activity.

Notre-Dame-du-Verger Chapel: a historic haven of peace near Verger beach

The Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Verger is an ideal destination. Located just a few steps from Verger Beach, this charming 15th-century chapel offers you a moment of calm and serenity, steeped in history. In this article, discover the history and characteristics of this picturesque chapel.

The Chapel was built in the 15th century and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is located in the commune of Cancale, near the Verger beach. This small granite chapel is a fine example of Breton religious architecture of the period, with its thick walls, stained glass windows and slate roof. The chapel has been restored several times over the centuries, testifying to the importance of this place of worship for the local community.

During your visit you will be able to admire its architecture and decorative elements, such as stained glass windows, statues and ex-votos. Take the time to soak up the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere that reigns in this historic place. The chapel is surrounded by a small flower garden, ideal for resting and meditating after your visit.

The Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Verger is located about a 35-minute drive from Saint-Malo, making it an ideal destination for a half-day trip. Take advantage of your visit to explore the surrounding area and discover other places of interest, such as the Verger beach, the coastal path (GR34) or the village of Cancale, famous for its oysters and maritime heritage.

Did you know? :

• The origin of the name "Notre-Dame-du-Verger" : The name "Notre-Dame-du-Verger" finds its origin in the old orchard that was located near the chapel. The place was once surrounded by apple trees, whose fruits were used to make cider. The chapel was a place of prayer for farmers who came to ask the Virgin for protection for their crops.
• A sanctuary prior to the current chapel : Before the construction of the Notre-Dame-du-Verger Chapel in the 17th century, an older sanctuary was located at this location. The remains of this first chapel, dating from the Middle Ages, are still visible today near the current building.
• The Legend of the Shipwrecked Sailor : According to a local legend, a shipwrecked sailor was saved from the waves by the Virgin Mary, who showed him the way to the chapel. Grateful, the sailor offered the chapel a statue of the Virgin, which is still visible today inside the building.
• A place of maritime pilgrimage : The Notre-Dame-du-Verger Chapel was once a place of pilgrimage for sailors and fishermen who came to ask the Virgin for protection for their sea voyages. Every year, a maritime procession was organized in honor of Notre-Dame-du-Verger, during which the boats were blessed and the sailors gave thanks for the blessings received.

Le Manoir de Limoëlou: ​​immerse yourself in maritime history and the adventures of Jacques Cartier

Saint-Malo, the famous corsair city, is full of treasures. Among them, the Manoir de Limoëlou, former home of the navigator Jacques Cartier, deserves a special place in your itinerary. Follow us to discover this fascinating historic residence, which has become a captivating museum dedicated to maritime exploration.

Located in a green setting just a few steps from the sea, the Manoir de Limoëlou is a true haven of peace, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Saint-Malo. This 16th-century residence, also known as the Maison de Jacques Cartier, was once the residence of this famous explorer who discovered Canada.

The manor, perfectly restored, will seduce you with its architecture typical of the region, with its granite walls and its slate roof. As you walk through the gardens and rooms of the house, you can admire the period objects and the old decorations, witnesses to the daily life of the inhabitants of Saint-Malo at the time of Cartier.

Today it houses a fascinating museum that traces the history of navigation and great maritime explorations. Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, you will discover the adventures of Jacques Cartier and his contemporaries, as well as their impact on history and geography.

Ship models, old maps, navigation instruments and Jacques Cartier's personal items will help you better understand the challenges and issues of maritime expeditions of the time. The museum's interactive exhibits and activities make the visit both fun and educational for young and old.

The Manoir de Limoëlou is not only a museum, it is also a place for meetings and cultural exchanges. Throughout the year, conferences, workshops and shows are organized to highlight maritime history and local heritage. Be sure to check out the events program to enrich your visit.

Did you know? :

• A hidden chapel : Did you know that the Manoir de Limoëlou houses a discreet chapel dedicated to Saint Anne? Located in the heart of the estate, it bears witness to the piety of Jacques Cartier and his family. The chapel is sometimes open for special events and is worth a visit for its peaceful and meditative atmosphere.
• A medieval garden : The manor's gardens, although often overshadowed by the main building, have a discreet charm and a history of their own. The medieval garden, inspired by the botanical knowledge of the time, contains medicinal, aromatic and ornamental plants, as well as local varieties of vegetables and flowers.
• The remains of an ancient seigneury : Before belonging to Jacques Cartier, the Limoëlou estate was the fiefdom of a noble family of the region. Remains of this period, such as moats and fortifications, are still visible on the site. These elements bear witness to the strategic importance of the place and its role in local history.
• Period furniture : The furniture on display at the Manoir de Limoëlou is mostly faithful replicas of period furniture. However, some pieces, such as a table or a chest, are authentic objects that belonged to Jacques Cartier himself. Be sure to admire these rare treasures during your visit.
• Meetings with Jacques Cartier's descendants : During special events and commemorations related to the explorer, it is not uncommon to come across Jacques Cartier's descendants at the Manoir de Limoëlou. These meetings offer a unique opportunity to interact with people who have a direct link to the history and heritage of the place.

The Solidor Tower in Saint-Servan: a historic site offering a panoramic view of the Emerald Coast

The Solidor Tower in Saint-Servan is a must-see historical site if you want to discover the Emerald Coast and its maritime heritage. Located at the mouth of the Rance, this medieval tower offers an exceptional panoramic view of the region and houses a museum dedicated to Cape Horners and long-haul ships.

The Solidor Tower was built in the 14th century during the reign of Duke John IV of Brittany, with the aim of protecting access to the Rance and controlling maritime traffic. It is composed of three towers connected by curtain walls and surrounded by a fortified enclosure. The architecture of the tower is a mixture of medieval and Gothic styles, with defensive elements such as machicolations and arrow slits.

The Tower now houses a museum dedicated to Cape Horners and long-haul ships. This museum traces the history of the Breton navigators who rounded the fearsome Cape Horn, located at the southern tip of South America, and who crisscrossed the world's oceans. You can discover ship models, navigation instruments, nautical charts, photographs and personal items of the sailors.

One of the major attractions of the Solidor Tower is the panoramic view it offers of the Emerald Coast and the mouth of the Rance. From the patrol path and the terraces, you can admire the coastal landscape, the city of Saint-Malo and the surrounding islands. Be sure to take photos of this exceptional panorama during your visit.

The Solidor Tower is located just a few kilometers from Saint-Malo, making it an ideal destination for a half-day trip. Take advantage of your visit to explore the surrounding area and discover other places of interest, such as the Val beach and the marina of Saint-Servan, the Briantais park, or the old town of Saint-Malo, with its ramparts and historical heritage.

Did you know? :

• A triple-enclosure building : The Solidor Tower is actually made up of three circular towers joined by buildings and a drawbridge. This unique construction gives the monument an imposing appearance and a reinforced defensive character. This little-known aspect of the Solidor Tower bears witness to the strategic importance of this building in medieval times.
• An underground crypt : Under the foundations of the Solidor Tower, an underground crypt was discovered during archaeological excavations. Although access is limited, the crypt bears witness to the mysterious past of this building and the many stories surrounding its construction.
• The Tower Watchtower : The Tower Solidor Watchtower, located at the top of the building, once served as an observation post for the sentries who monitored the mouth of the Rance and the Bay of Saint-Malo. Today, this watchtower is little known to the general public, but it offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area, especially during high tides.
• Sailors' graffiti : On the walls of the Solidor Tower, you can still see traces of graffiti left by sailors who frequented the place over the centuries. These inscriptions bear witness to the maritime history of the site and the lives of the navigators who crossed the oceans from this coast.

Fort du Guesclin: a medieval pearl on the island of Guesclin

Discover an extraordinary place, located on the island of Guesclin in Brittany. This medieval fort, a true historical treasure, is only accessible at low tide and offers a unique experience to curious visitors. Although the fort is privately owned, guided tours are organized during the European Heritage Days and on other specific occasions. Let yourself be seduced by this historical monument that amazes lovers of history and maritime landscapes.

The Fort du Guesclin, built in the 14th century, is located on the island of Guesclin, a small rocky islet accessible at low tide. This medieval fort, once intended to defend the Breton coast, is today a place steeped in history and mystery. Its strategic position, overlooking the ocean, makes it an exceptional viewpoint on the Emerald Coast.

The Fort du Guesclin has had a turbulent history, marked by numerous conflicts and changes of ownership. Over the centuries, it has been occupied in turn by English troops, revolutionary forces and Napoleonic armies. After the Second World War, the fort was bought by private individuals and restored to its former glory.

Although the Fort du Guesclin is privately owned, guided tours are organised during the European Heritage Days and on other specific occasions. These tours are a unique opportunity to discover the interior of this medieval fort and learn more about its captivating history.

The island of Guesclin is a true haven of peace for the local fauna and flora. Visitors will be able to observe different species of seabirds that populate the island, as well as the maritime vegetation that has developed on the rocks. The crossing on foot to reach the fort at low tide offers a unique experience, in communion with nature.

To find out everything about this place full of history : https://guesclin.com/ile-du-guesclin-son-fort-son-histoire/

Did you know? :

• A famous resident: Léo Ferré : The famous singer and poet Léo Ferré was the owner of the Fort du Guesclin between 1960 and 1968. He lived there and found inspiration for some of his songs, including "La Mémoire et la Mer". Few people know that this historic monument was the refuge of one of the great names of French song.
• The underground guard room : The Fort du Guesclin houses an underground guard room, dug into the rock. This secret room, little known to visitors, bears witness to the ingenuity of the medieval builders and the fort's reinforced defenses.
• Access dependent on the tides : Access to Fort du Guesclin is subject to the whims of the tides. Indeed, it is only accessible on foot at low tide, when the water level is low enough to reveal a passage between the island and the mainland. This characteristic makes Fort du Guesclin a place that is both unique and mysterious.
• Leonardo da Vinci and the Fort : It is said that Leonardo da Vinci, during his stay in France, visited the Fort du Guesclin and was impressed by its design and strategic location. Although there is no concrete evidence of this visit, this story adds an intriguing dimension to the history of the fort.
• Bertrand du Guesclin : The fort takes its name from the famous Breton knight Bertrand du Guesclin, who fought in the service of the French King Charles V against the English during the Hundred Years' War. Although the current fort was not built during du Guesclin's time, it stands on the ruins of an earlier fortress that is said to have been occupied by this legendary knight.

THE BONUS VISIT: Combourg Castle: a fascinating dive into Breton medieval history

The Château de Combourg, located near Saint-Malo in Brittany, is a must-see for lovers of medieval history and culture. Built in the 11th century, this historic monument was the residence of many owners, including the writer François René de Chateaubriand.

The Château de Combourg offers visitors a fascinating dive into Breton medieval history. You can explore the sumptuous rooms of the castle, discover its remarkable gardens and admire the panoramic view from its ramparts. The visit is enhanced by exhibitions and activities to better understand the history of the castle and the region.

The castle, with its imposing watchtower, Gothic chapel and picturesque inner courtyard, is also a remarkable example of medieval architecture. The visit is a truly immersive experience in history, transporting visitors into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

Did you know? :

• The castle was built on an artificial hill, formed from several tons of stones and earth.
• The famous Romantic writer François René de Chateaubriand lived at the Château de Combourg during his youth. His childhood memories at the château inspired his literary works, notably "Les Mémoires d'Outre-Tombe".
• During the French Revolution, the castle was transformed into a prison for refractory priests.
• The Chateaubriand family sold the château in 1846. It then passed through several hands before being purchased by the State in 1936.
• The Château de Combourg is renowned for its remarkable gardens, which have been labelled "Jardin Remarquable" since 2004. The gardens are open to the public and are a real delight for nature and botany lovers.