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Chaussée du Sillon: Saint-Malo's Iconic Promenade

Stroll Saint-Malo's iconic Chaussée du Sillon: coastal views, historic villas, and a unique defense against the sea. A must-see promenade!

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The Chaussée du Sillon is a defining feature of Saint-Malo, stretching almost two kilometers along the Grande Plage. Originally a sand spit, it transformed into a robust seawall and promenade between 1883 and 1913. Lined with elegant villas and featuring unique oak breakwaters, it offers breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast and the historic Intra-Muros.

A brief summary to Chaussée du Sillon - Bords de Mer

  • Chau. du Sillon, Saint-Malo, 35400, FR

Local tips

  • Check the tide times before visiting to see the breakwaters fully exposed at low tide.
  • Walk the entire length of the Sillon, from Intra-Muros to Paramé, to experience the full panorama.
  • Bring a camera to capture the elegant villas and stunning coastal scenery.
  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views over the Emerald Coast.
  • Enjoy the sea breeze and refreshing atmosphere while walking along the promenade.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Intra-Muros (the walled city), exit through Porte Saint-Vincent, the main gate. The Chaussée du Sillon begins directly in front of you, stretching along the Grande Plage. Simply follow the promenade in either direction. The walk from Porte Saint-Vincent to the far end of the Sillon in Paramé takes approximately 30-45 minutes at a leisurely pace. There are no costs associated with walking the Sillon.

  • Public Transport

    From the Saint-Malo train station, take bus line 1 or 2 towards Intra-Muros. Get off at the 'Intra-Muros' stop, which is located just outside the city walls. From there, exit through Porte Saint-Vincent, where the Chaussée du Sillon begins. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Saint-Malo. A taxi ride from the train station to the entrance of Intra-Muros (Porte Saint-Vincent), where the Chaussée du Sillon begins, will cost approximately €10-€15.

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Discover more about Chaussée du Sillon - Bords de Mer

The Chaussée du Sillon is more than just a promenade; it's a testament to Saint-Malo's enduring relationship with the sea. Stretching for nearly two kilometers along the Grande Plage, this iconic walkway offers breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast, the historic Intra-Muros (walled city), and the ever-changing tides of the English Channel. Originally, the Sillon was a simple sand spit that connected Paramé to Saint-Malo, providing the only dry-land access to the walled city during low tide. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Saint-Malo grew in popularity as a seaside resort, the need for a more robust coastal defense became apparent. Construction of the Chaussée du Sillon began in 1883 and continued until 1913, transforming the sand spit into a substantial seawall and promenade. The promenade is lined with elegant villas dating back to the late 19th century, reflecting the Belle Époque architectural style. These villas, with their ornate facades and sea-facing balconies, evoke a sense of grandeur and history, transporting visitors back to a time when Saint-Malo was a favored destination for wealthy Europeans. One of the most distinctive features of the Chaussée du Sillon is its system of oak breakwaters. These vertical wooden posts, driven into the sand along the beach, serve to dissipate the energy of incoming waves, protecting the promenade and the city behind it from erosion and flooding. The breakwaters, first installed in 1825, create a unique visual landscape, particularly during low tide when their full extent is revealed. The Chaussée du Sillon is not just a scenic walkway; it's also a vital part of Saint-Malo's identity. It has witnessed countless storms, protected the city from the sea, and served as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Walking along the Sillon allows one to connect with the history of Saint-Malo, appreciate the beauty of the natural environment, and experience the invigorating power of the ocean.

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