Bidouane Tower, Saint Malo Travel Guide

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Explore Bidouane Tower in Saint-Malo: a historic sentinel offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's maritime past.

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Bidouane Tower

Bidouane Tower, a prominent 15th-century fortification in Saint-Malo, France, stands as a testament to the city's rich maritime history. Originally built for defense, it offers panoramic views of the coastline and a glimpse into the past. Today, it's a popular spot for tourists exploring the ramparts and enjoying the scenic beauty of this historic walled city.

A brief summary to Bidouane Tower

Pass. de la Poudrière, Saint-Malo, 35400, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bidouane Tower.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the area around the tower involves walking on cobblestone streets and ramparts.
Check the tide times before visiting, as access to nearby islands like Grand Bé is only possible at low tide.

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Explore Bidouane Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bidouane Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Saint-Malo Intra-Muros (walled city), the Bidouane Tower is easily accessible on foot. Simply follow the ramparts towards the northwest corner of the city. The tower is located at Pass. de la Poudrière. Enjoy the scenic views of the coastline as you walk along the historic walls.
Public Transport

From the Saint-Malo train station, take bus line 1 towards 'Rothéneuf'. Get off at the 'Poudrière' stop, which is a short walk from the Bidouane Tower. Follow signs or use a map to navigate to Pass. de la Poudrière. A single ticket is valid for 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs approximately €2.70.
Parking

If driving, several parking lots are available near the old town. However, parking inside the city walls is limited. Consider parking at the Paul Féval car park, located behind the Hippodrome de Saint-Malo, and take the free shuttle bus to Intra-Muros. The daily parking rate at Paul Féval is €3.30. Alternatively, there are several underground parking options closer to Intra-Muros, such as Parking Saint-Vincent, but these can be more expensive.

Discover more about Bidouane Tower

The Bidouane Tower, located in the northwest corner of Saint-Malo's walled city, is a key landmark that has guarded the coast for centuries. Constructed in the 15th century and later rebuilt in 1691, the horseshoe-shaped tower was strategically positioned to monitor incoming ships and protect against potential invasions. Its sturdy stone walls and elevated watchtower exemplify the military architecture of the era.Visitors can explore the tower as part of a walking tour of the ramparts, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline, including the beaches of Bon Secours, Grand Bé island, and Fort National. The tower's history is filled with tales of battles and maritime adventures, including an attempt by Anglo-Dutch forces to destroy it with an explosive-laden ship in 1693. Although the attempt failed, the tower stands as a symbol of the city's resilience.Today, the Bidouane Tower offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Saint-Malo's rich maritime heritage. The panoramic views from the top are particularly captivating, providing a unique perspective of the bustling harbor and the city's historic architecture. The tower is also close to other attractions, including the statue of the corsair Robert Surcouf and the Cavalier des Champs-Vauverts, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring this remarkable coastal city.