The most beautiful villages to discover around Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, with its rich history and imposing ramparts, is one of Brittany’s must-see destinations, but the surrounding area is no exception. Charming, picturesque villages await you just a stone’s throw from the corsair city. Join us on a tour of the ten most beautiful villages to discover around Saint-Malo.

1. Saint-Suliac: a charming fortress

Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Saint-Suliac is a real gem. This fortified village nestles on the banks of the River Rance, offering a picturesque spectacle of fishermen’s houses with flower-decked facades and winding streets. The village has preserved its authentic character, with its 13th-century church, its Roche-aux-Fées dolmen and its old tide mill.

What’s more, Saint-Suliac boasts breathtaking views over the River Rance from its Mont Garrot, ideal for a walk in the heart of nature. Whether you’re a lover of old stones, bucolic landscapes or seaside walks, Saint-Suliac is sure to please.

2. Léhon: seduction and history on the menu

Situated in the heart of the Rance valley, Lehon is a small town full of character that has retained its charm of yesteryear. With its Saint-Magloire abbey, medieval bridge and half-timbered houses, the village is a real trip back in time. Nature lovers will also appreciate the walks along the Ille-et-Rance canal.

Lehon is also famous for its fortified castle, nestling on a rocky spur overlooking the valley. This historic site, listed as a Monument Historique, offers a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. A visit to Lehon is like immersing yourself in the medieval history of Brittany.

3. Pleudihen-sur-Rance: a bucolic getaway

Pleudihen-sur-Rance is another charming village on the banks of the River Rance. It is best known for its cider apple orchards and traditional stone houses. The village is also the starting point for a number of walks that follow the Rance through a varied landscape of woods, meadows and marshes.

Don’t miss a visit to the Moulin du Prat, an old watermill that has been converted into a museum. Here you can discover the history of milling and cider-making in Brittany. Pleudihen-sur-Rance is a haven of peace for nature and heritage lovers.

4. Combourg: the romantic imprint of Chateaubriand

Combourg is inextricably linked with the Romantic writer François-René de Chateaubriand, who spent part of his youth here. Its imposing and mysterious château dominates the village and Lac Tranquille. The Maison de Chateaubriand, the Promenade des Douves and the Church of Saint-Gilduin are all worth a visit.

The village is also the starting point for many walks through the Breton countryside and around the lake. Combourg is an invitation to daydream and discover the romantic soul of Brittany.

5. Dinard: the elegance of a Belle Époque seaside resort

Dinard, with its Belle Époque villas, fine sandy beaches and casino, is a must-see on the Emerald Coast. The Clair de Lune promenade, the exotic gardens of Port-Breton park and the Halles market are just some of the places to discover.

The seaside resort is also renowned for its British film festival and contemporary art exhibitions. Dinard is a delicious blend of elegance, culture and idleness, just a stone’s throw from Saint-Malo.

6. Saint-Briac-sur-Mer: the charm of a fishing village

Saint-Briac-sur-Mer is a fishing village that has retained its old-world charm. With its small white houses, narrow streets and fine sandy beaches, the village is a haven of peace. The marina, the customs path and the golf course are all worth a visit.

Saint-Briac-sur-Mer is also a mecca for sailing and surfing. The village offers breathtaking views over the Bay of Saint-Malo and Cap Fréhel. A visit to Saint-Briac-sur-Mer is an immersion in the Breton art of living.

7. Dol-de-Bretagne: a journey to the heart of the Middle Ages

Dol-de-Bretagne is a medieval town that has managed to preserve its historic heritage. With its Saint-Samson cathedral, timber-framed houses and rue des Tanneurs, the village is a real journey back in time. Don’t miss a visit to the Menhir du Champ-Dolent, the largest menhir in Brittany.

Dol-de-Bretagne is also the starting point for numerous walks through the Breton countryside and along the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Dol-de-Bretagne is an invitation to discover the history of Brittany.

8. Cancale: an authentic fishing port

Cancale is a fishing village renowned for its oysters and the Port de la Houle. The oyster market, the customs officers’ trail and the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires are all worth a visit. What’s more, Cancale offers a breathtaking view over the bay of Mont Saint-Michel.

Cancale is also the starting point for numerous walks through the Breton countryside and along the Emerald Coast. A visit to Cancale is an immersion in Brittany’s maritime culture.

9. Jugon-les-Lacs: peace and quiet in the heart of nature

Jugon-les-Lacs is a village set in the heart of unspoilt countryside. With its two lakes, rivers and forests, the village is a haven of peace for nature lovers. The village is also famous for its half-timbered houses and the church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur.

Jugon-les-Lacs is also the starting point for many walks through the Breton countryside. Whether you’re a fan of fishing, sailing or nature walks, Jugon-les-Lacs is sure to please.

10. Saint-Samson-sur-Rance: a surprising break

Saint-Samson-sur-Rance is a small village on the banks of the River Rance. It is best known for its lock, the largest in Brittany, and its marina. The village is also the starting point for a number of walks that follow the Rance through a varied landscape of woods, meadows and marshes.

What’s more, Saint-Samson-sur-Rance offers a breathtaking view of the Rance from its belvedere. Whether you’re a lover of old stone, bucolic landscapes or seaside walks, Saint-Samson-sur-Rance is sure to please.

In short, at the gateway to Saint-Malo, a host of picturesque villages full of charm await you. Each has a story to tell, unique places to discover and a special atmosphere to offer. So don’t hesitate to take the time to explore them and soak up their atmosphere. That’s where Brittany’s real treasure lies.