Parc de la Briantais: A Coastal Retreat

Parc de la Briantais, located in the Saint-Servan district of Saint-Malo, is a sprawling 27-hectare estate overlooking the Rance estuary. The park provides breathtaking views of the bay of Saint-Malo, including the Solidor Tower and Dinard. The grounds feature a thoughtful arrangement of plateaus and paths, creating surprising and varied perspectives. The park's history dates back to a 17th-century manor, of which some ruins remain. In 1864, a castle was built to replace the old manor. The estate was once owned by Michel Picot de Presmenil, a shipowner, and later by Guy La Chambre, the mayor of Saint-Malo who spearheaded the city's reconstruction after World War II. The town of Saint-Malo acquired the property in 1999 and opened it to the public. The park's landscape was remodeled in 1935 and features numerous statues and outbuildings, including a chapel, washhouses, and a temple of love. Visitors can explore diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species, squirrels, and hedgehogs. The park also serves as a venue for events like flower markets and concerts.