Saint-Malo Ramparts

City Walls in Saint-Malo

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon

The ramparts of Saint-Malo form a nearly complete circuit around the old walled city, offering sweeping views of the sea, beaches, harbor, and historic streets below. Originally constructed in the 12th century and greatly expanded in the 17th and 18th centuries under the direction of military engineer Vauban, the walls were designed to protect the port from pirates and foreign navies. These granite fortifications—some reaching over 8 meters high—reflect Saint-Malo’s proud maritime legacy as a stronghold of privateers and explorers.

Walking the ramparts is one of the best ways to experience Saint-Malo’s atmosphere. The route is roughly 1.75 kilometers long and accessible via multiple staircases and towers, including Porte Saint-Vincent, the main entrance to the city. Along the way, you’ll pass key points such as Bastion de la Hollande, with cannons aimed out to sea, and Tour Bidouane, a massive round tower once used for storing gunpowder. Each section offers a new perspective, from tidal islets and fortified islands offshore to the bustling quays and rooftops of Intra-Muros.

The ramparts also tell the story of Saint-Malo’s resilience. Much of the city was destroyed during World War II, but the walls themselves survived largely intact. After the war, the city was meticulously rebuilt stone by stone within the historic walls, preserving its medieval street layout and architectural style. Today, walking the ramparts connects visitors not only to the grandeur of the city’s corsair past, but also to its remarkable rebirth in the 20th century.

In every season, the ramparts offer something special—summer brings dramatic views of the turquoise sea and sunbathers on Plage de Bon-Secours, while winter reveals windswept vistas and stormy skies. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply out for a scenic stroll, the ramparts of Saint-Malo are an unforgettable highlight of any visit to the Breton coast.

The Saint-Malo Ramparts appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Saint-Malo!

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