Fort National: A Seafaring Sentinel
Explore Fort National in Saint-Malo: a historic tidal fort offering panoramic views and a glimpse into centuries of maritime defense.
Erected in 1689, Fort National stands proudly on a tidal island near Saint-Malo, Brittany. Designed by Vauban, it has witnessed centuries of maritime history, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the life of a fortified island.
A brief summary to National Fort
- 60 Chau. du Sillon, Saint-Malo, 35400, FR
- +33672466626
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the tide schedule in advance, as access to Fort National is only possible at low tide.
- Look for the French flag flying above the fort, which signals that it is open for visitors.
- Wear appropriate footwear for walking on the sandy beach and potentially slippery rocks leading to the fort.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the fort's history and significance.
Getting There
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Walking
From Intra-Muros (the walled city), walk towards the Plage de l'Éventail (also known as the Grande Plage) in front of the Château de Saint-Malo. At low tide, a causeway appears, allowing you to walk across the beach to Fort National. Be mindful of the tide and ensure the French flag is raised, indicating safe access. Entrance tickets are sold at the fort gate for €5 per adult.
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Parking
If arriving by car, parking is available outside the Intra-Muros. Consider parking at Parking Paul Féval, located behind the Saint-Malo Hippodrome, and take the free shuttle bus to the Intra-Muros. From there, follow the walking directions to the fort. Parking at Paul Féval costs €3.30 per day. Alternatively, parking is available closer to the Intra-Muros at Saint-Vincent car park, though this is more expensive. Rates vary, and height restrictions may apply.
Discover more about National Fort
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Office de Tourisme de Saint-Malo
0.5 km
Explore the wonders of Saint-Malo with expert guidance at the Office de Tourisme, your essential resource for local insights and travel tips.
Palais du Grand Large - Saint-Malo
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant Palais du Grand Large in Saint-Malo, where stunning coastal views meet exciting exhibitions and unforgettable events.
Appartement Jean Noel Saint Malo
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Saint-Malo from the comfort of Appartement Jean Noel, your perfect indoor lodging retreat in the heart of this historic city.
Place des Frères Lamennais
0.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Place des Frères Lamennais, a serene city park in the heart of Saint-Malo, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.
Parking Place de l'Hermine
1.3 km
Experience hassle-free parking at Place de l'Hermine, your gateway to the historic and beautiful Saint-Malo.
Maison Du Peuple
1.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture at Maison Du Peuple, a captivating landmark in the heart of Saint-Malo, France.
Le Vauban 2-La Grande Passerelle
1.5 km
Discover the charm of Le Vauban 2-La Grande Passerelle, a cozy movie theater in Saint-Malo perfect for film lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Plage des Bas Sablons
1.9 km
Experience the serene charm of Plage des Bas Sablons, a public beach in Saint-Malo, where golden sands meet azure waters in a picturesque setting.
Plage de la Hoguette
1.9 km
Plage de la Hoguette: A serene beach escape near Saint-Malo, perfect for sunbathing, relaxation, and family fun amidst stunning coastal views.
La Cale - Solidor - Saint-Malo
2.2 km
Experience the finest Haute French cuisine and fresh seafood at La Cale - Solidor, overlooking the stunning harbor of Saint-Malo.
Hommage au Commandant Charcot
2.3 km
Explore the Hommage au Commandant Charcot in Saint-Malo, a magnificent sculpture celebrating French exploration amidst the beauty of the coast.
Cale de Solidor
2.3 km
Explore the picturesque Cale de Solidor, a charming harbor in France, perfect for scenic walks, local cuisine, and rich maritime history.
Solidor Tower
2.3 km
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Marin Malouin
2.4 km
Experience the enchanting waters of Saint-Malo with Marin Malouin's boat tours, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures along the Brittany coastline.
Cale des torpilleurs
2.5 km
Explore Cale des Torpilleurs in Saint-Malo, a historic landmark steeped in maritime heritage, offering breathtaking harbor views and a journey into the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Plage de l’éventail
0.2 km
Discover Plage de l'Éventail in Saint-Malo: a blend of history and relaxation on Brittany's scenic coast.
Douves Garden
0.2 km
Find serenity in Saint-Malo's Douves Garden, a peaceful green space offering a tranquil escape at the foot of the city's historic ramparts.
Micro Zoo Saint-Malo
0.4 km
Experience the joy of wildlife at Micro Zoo Saint-Malo, a unique blend of education, fun, and cultural heritage in the heart of a historic coastal town.
Saint-Malo Castle
0.4 km
Explore Saint-Malo Castle, a stunning fortress overlooking the sea, rich in history and charm, perfect for a memorable visit in Brittany, France.
Porte Saint Thomas
0.4 km
Discover the historical allure of Porte Saint Thomas, an iconic landmark in Saint-Malo, France, where maritime heritage meets stunning architecture.
Château de Saint-Malo
0.4 km
Explore the stunning Château de Saint-Malo, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into France's maritime heritage.
Pl. Vauban
0.4 km
Discover Place Vauban in Saint-Malo, the perfect starting point to explore the ramparts, historic Intra-Muros, and captivating maritime history of this charming French city.
Birthplace Chateaubriand
0.4 km
Explore the Birthplace of Chateaubriand in Saint-Malo, a captivating historical landmark steeped in literary significance and maritime charm.
Bastion de la Reine
0.4 km
Explore the Bastion de la Reine in Saint-Malo, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the city's rich maritime heritage and breathtaking coastal views.
Pl. Chateaubriand
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Pl. Chateaubriand, a vibrant square in Saint-Malo perfect for relaxation, dining, and soaking up local culture.
Poterne Aux Normands
0.4 km
Explore the captivating history of Poterne Aux Normands, a must-visit historical landmark in Saint-Malo, showcasing the city's rich maritime heritage.
Maison de la Duchesse Anne - Saint-Malo
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Maison de la Duchesse Anne in Saint-Malo, the oldest house that showcases the rich medieval history of Brittany.
Rue du Pelicot - historic road
0.5 km
Discover Rue du Pelicot in Saint-Malo: A historic gem with cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and captivating glimpses into the past.
St. Vincent Gate
0.5 km
Discover the historical charm and breathtaking views at St. Vincent Gate, a must-visit landmark in the enchanting city of Saint-Malo.
House Quebec
0.6 km
Explore House Quebec in Saint-Malo, a captivating museum celebrating the cultural connections between Quebec and France.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant panoramique Le 5 Saint-Malo
0.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Panoramique Le 5 in Saint-Malo.
Annadata
0.5 km
Experience exquisite organic fine dining at Annadata in Saint-Malo—where every dish tells a story of freshness and flavor.
Brasserie du Lion D'Or
0.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Brasserie du Lion D'Or in Saint-Malo - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Le Café de Saint Malo
0.5 km
Experience authentic French dining at Le Café de Saint Malo, where fresh seafood meets traditional culinary excellence in a charming coastal setting.
Le Chalut
0.5 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Le Chalut in Saint-Malo, where fresh seafood meets elegant dining.
Le Bistro de Jean
0.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Bistro de Jean in Saint-Malo, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
FIDELIS
0.5 km
Discover the essence of French gastronomy at FIDELIS in Saint-Malo - where every dish tells a story.
Le Petit Crêpier
0.6 km
Discover authentic Brittany flavors at Le Petit Crêpier in Saint-Malo - indulge in delicious crepes crafted from fresh local ingredients.
Grand Mère Augustine
0.6 km
Discover authentic Brittany flavors at Grand Mère Augustine, a beloved creperie in Saint-Malo offering delightful sweet and savory crepes.
le père bougeard
0.6 km
Discover authentic Breton flavors at Le Père Bougeard, where delicious crêpes meet warm hospitality in picturesque Saint-Malo.
Le Bistrot de Cathy
0.6 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Bistrot de Cathy in Saint-Malo – a delightful blend of tradition and local flavors.
La Tempête
0.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Brittany at La Tempête in Saint-Malo - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Bergamote
0.7 km
Discover the heart of French gastronomy at Bergamote in Saint-Malo – where every crêpe tells a story.
Crêperie Le Tournesol
0.7 km
Discover authentic Breton flavors at Crêperie Le Tournesol in Saint-Malo—where every crêpe tells a delicious story.
L’entracte
0.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at L’entracte in Saint-Malo – where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SAINT JAMES - Saint Malo
0.5 km
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Sene-Breizh
0.5 km
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Cinco
0.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and stylish fashion at Cinco, the charming boutique in the heart of Saint-Malo, France's historic coastal gem.
Orson Bay Saint-Malo
0.6 km
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Boutique Marouch
0.6 km
Discover elegance and style at Boutique Marouch, Saint-Malo's premier destination for women's clothing and fashion accessories.
Côté Remparts - Saint-Malo
0.6 km
Explore Côté Remparts in Saint-Malo for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and local specialties that capture the essence of Brittany.
Joret Janick
0.6 km
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Nanna Bazaar-My Little Concept Store
0.6 km
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GUINEMENT BOUTIQUES
0.6 km
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L'Hermine
0.6 km
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le 29 Saint Malo
0.6 km
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La Manufacture Saint-Malo
0.7 km
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Boutique 727 Sailbags
0.7 km
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Trésors de St Malo
0.7 km
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V'Mode
0.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Saint Patrick
0.5 km
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L'Alchimiste
0.5 km
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La Java Café
0.6 km
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L'Equinoxial
0.7 km
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La Mer à Boire Saint-Malo
0.7 km
Experience the best of French wines in the heart of Saint-Malo at La Mer à Boire, a welcoming wine bar with an impressive selection and cozy atmosphere.
L'Alambic
0.7 km
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Bar L'Aviso
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant blend of cocktails and Irish pub culture at Bar L'Aviso in the heart of Saint-Malo.
The Riff Magnetic
0.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Riff Magnetic, a top live music bar in Saint-Malo, where great tunes and good times await.
Le Galion
0.8 km
Experience exquisite seafood and vibrant atmosphere at Le Galion, Saint-Malo's top bar and restaurant with stunning harbor views.
L’Encrier
0.8 km
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Le Dock
0.8 km
Discover Le Dock in Saint-Malo: A delightful brasserie offering exquisite French cuisine and breathtaking waterfront views.
La Fabrique Bar Saint Malo
0.8 km
Discover La Fabrique Bar in Saint-Malo: a lively spot for craft cocktails, local beers, and unforgettable live music experiences.
Le Quoicoubar
0.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Le Quoicoubar, a top bar destination in the heart of Saint-Malo.
l'Embraque
0.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of l'Embraque, a premier beer hall in Saint-Malo, offering local brews and delightful snacks in a charming setting.
La Belle Epoque
0.9 km
Discover La Belle Epoque, a charming bar and coffee shop in Saint-Malo, where vintage ambiance meets delightful beverages and local flavor.
