Château de La Roche Goyon

Castle in Saint-Malo

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Benh LIEU SONG

The Château de La Roche Goyon, better known as Fort La Latte, is one of the most breathtaking castles in Brittany, standing proudly on the Emerald Coast near Cap Fréhel. Built in the 14th century by Étienne III Goyon, this imposing fortress rises from a rocky headland overlooking the Bay of Saint-Malo, where cliffs plunge into the churning Atlantic. Originally constructed as a defensive outpost, its position was no accident — the Goyon family selected this site for its strategic vantage point, allowing them to control maritime routes along one of Brittany's most vital coastlines. With its pink sandstone walls, commanding towers, and sweeping ocean views, Fort La Latte captures the essence of Brittany's dramatic coastal heritage.

Throughout its long history, Château de La Roche Goyon has played a central role in defending the Breton shores. During the Hundred Years' War, it served as a key fortress against English invasions, and later, in the Wars of Religion, it was fortified once again to withstand siege. Under Louis XIV, the castle was transformed into a more modern bastioned fortress, adapted for artillery warfare. Despite centuries of conflict, it retains a captivating elegance, blending medieval strength with timeless beauty. Its striking silhouette has inspired countless painters and filmmakers — most famously featured in The Vikings (1958), starring Kirk Douglas and Tony Curtis.

Today, Fort La Latte invites visitors to step into a world of knights, sieges, and sea winds. Its towers, drawbridge, and dungeon evoke the atmosphere of medieval life, while its ramparts provide breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast. Inside, visitors can explore restored chambers filled with historical artifacts, armor, and furniture. The site hosts guided tours, medieval reenactments, and seasonal festivals, offering an engaging way to experience its living history. The castle's location also makes it one of the most photogenic sites in Brittany — especially at sunset, when the pink stone glows against the turquoise sea.

For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, Fort La Latte is a highlight along the legendary GR34 coastal trail, known as the Sentier des Douaniers. The walk between Cap Fréhel and the castle is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in France, with windswept cliffs, wildflowers, and panoramic sea views. Whether you hike the GR34 or arrive by car, Château de La Roche Goyon rises as an enduring symbol of Brittany's rugged maritime soul — where legend, history, and wild coastal beauty intertwine.

The Château de La Roche Goyon appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Saint-Malo!

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