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Stroll Along the Digue du Sillon

Experience the invigorating sea air and panoramic views along Saint-Malo's iconic Digue du Sillon, a historic promenade offering a delightful blend of nature and architectural charm.

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The Digue du Sillon is a historic and scenic promenade stretching along the Grande Plage du Sillon in Saint-Malo. Built between 1883 and 1913, this impressive seawall protects the city from the powerful waves of the Atlantic. Today, it offers visitors a delightful experience with panoramic ocean views, charming villas lining the promenade, and bracing sea air. The Digue is a popular spot for leisurely walks, watersports, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Saint-Malo's coastline. Whether you're seeking a refreshing stroll, a glimpse into the past, or simply a place to soak up the beauty of the Emerald Coast, the Digue du Sillon is a must-visit destination.

A brief summary to Digue du Sillon

  • GrandePlage du sillon, Saint-Malo, 35400, FR

Local tips

  • Check the tide times before visiting; low tide reveals more of the beach and allows access to Fort National.
  • Bring a windbreaker, as the Digue can be exposed to strong winds, especially during the off-season.
  • Enjoy a crêpe or galette from one of the nearby vendors for a taste of local cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Saint-Malo Intra-Muros (walled city), exit through the Porte Saint-Vincent, the main gate. The Digue du Sillon and the Grande Plage du Sillon are directly in front of you, across the Esplanade Saint-Vincent. The walk is less than 5 minutes. Note the sound beacons are installed within the perimeter of the Tourist Office located on the Esplanade Saint-Vincent to help visually impaired people find their way around.

  • Public Transport

    From the Gare de Saint-Malo (train station), take bus line 1 or 2 towards Intra-Muros. Get off at the 'Porte de Dinan' or 'Intra-Muros' stop. From there, walk through the Porte Saint-Vincent to reach the Digue du Sillon. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.70. Buses are operated by MAT (St Malo Agglo Transports).

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the Gare de Saint-Malo to the Digue du Sillon (Porte Saint-Vincent) will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in several paid parking lots near the Intra-Muros, such as Parking Duguay-Trouin or Parking La Galère. These are located within a short walking distance of the Digue du Sillon. Parking fees typically range from €2-€3 per hour, with daily rates around €15-€20. Free parking is available at the Paul Féval park-and-ride lot, though it's further away, requiring a bus connection to the city center.

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Discover more about Digue du Sillon

The Digue du Sillon, a defining feature of Saint-Malo's coastline, is more than just a protective barrier; it's a vibrant promenade steeped in history and offering breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast. Stretching for 1,671 meters along the Grande Plage du Sillon, this iconic seawall has been a focal point of the city for over a century. Originally, the area was a sandy stretch connecting Paramé to Saint-Malo, with a few windmills dotting the landscape. Recognizing the need to protect the burgeoning seaside resort from the relentless Atlantic waves, construction of the Digue began in 1883 and continued until 1913. The project aimed to safeguard the elegant villas and infrastructure that were rapidly transforming Saint-Malo into a popular destination. The Digue du Sillon not only serves as a bulwark against the sea but also provides a delightful promenade for visitors and locals alike. As you stroll along its length, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the ocean, the offshore islands, and the dramatic coastline. The air is fresh and invigorating, carrying the salty scent of the sea. The promenade is lined with a diverse array of Belle Époque villas, each boasting unique architectural details and reflecting the grandeur of a bygone era. These charming buildings add to the Digue's appeal, creating a picturesque backdrop for your seaside walk. Many of these villas have fascinating stories, some even requisitioned during wartime or transformed into temporary hospitals. Along the beach side of the Digue, a series of wooden breakwaters, or 'brise-lames,' stand as silent sentinels against the waves. These posts, partially submerged, create a unique visual landscape and play a crucial role in dissipating the force of the ocean, protecting the Digue and the coastline behind it. The breakwaters have been subject to repairs and renovations over the years, a testament to the ongoing effort to preserve this vital structure. The Digue du Sillon is a hub of activity throughout the year. During the warmer months, the Grande Plage comes alive with sunbathers, swimmers, and watersports enthusiasts. Kite flying, sand yachting, and windsurfing are popular activities, taking advantage of the often-windy conditions. Even in the cooler seasons, the Digue remains a popular spot for a bracing walk, offering a chance to experience the raw power of the Atlantic. The Digue also holds historical significance, having withstood numerous storms and high tides over the years. The raz-de-marée of 1905 caused significant damage, highlighting the constant battle between the city and the sea. The Digue has been renovated and reinforced multiple times to ensure its continued protection of Saint-Malo. Today, the Digue du Sillon is more than just a historical landmark; it's an integral part of Saint-Malo's identity. It's a place where people come to relax, exercise, socialize, and connect with the sea. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll, enjoying a picnic on the beach, or simply admiring the view, the Digue du Sillon offers a quintessential Saint-Malo experience. Accessibility is generally good, with a paved promenade suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. However, access to the beach itself may be limited in some areas. The Saint-Malo tourist office, located near the Digue, provides information on accessible routes and facilities. As you explore the Digue du Sillon, take a moment to appreciate the history, the architecture, and the natural beauty that surrounds you. This iconic promenade is a testament to human ingenuity and resilience, a place where the past and present converge to create a truly unforgettable experience. It's a must-see destination for any visitor to Saint-Malo, offering a glimpse into the soul of this captivating coastal city. Don't miss the opportunity to: * Walk the entire length of the Digue, from the Fort National to the Pointe de Rochebonne, and soak in the diverse views. * Admire the Belle Époque villas that line the promenade, noting their unique architectural details. * Watch the waves crash against the breakwaters, feeling the power of the Atlantic. * Enjoy a picnic on the beach, savoring the fresh sea air. * Try your hand at watersports, such as kite flying or windsurfing. * Visit the Saint-Malo tourist office for information on local attractions and events. * Capture stunning photos of the Digue, the beach, and the surrounding coastline. The Digue du Sillon is a place where memories are made, a place where the beauty of the sea and the charm of the city come together in perfect harmony. It's a destination that will stay with you long after you've left, a reminder of the magic of Saint-Malo.

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