Fort National Saint-Malo
A 17th-century granite fortress on a tidal islet, offering historical exploration and panoramic views of Saint-Malo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Fort National Saint-Malo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century granite fortress on a tidal islet, offering historical exploration and panoramic views of Saint-Malo.
"Definitely worth a visit at low tide, it is open when the flag is up."
Check Tide Times Daily
Fort National is only accessible at low tide. Always check the schedule before heading out!
Bring Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is typically €5 and cash is often the only accepted payment method.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fort National
On an outcrop accessible at low tide
A 17th-century granite fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into military history.
WWII Armored Cupolas
Within the fort's defenses
Discover remnants of German defenses, including a cupola with a lodged shell.
Panoramic City Views
From the fort's ramparts
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Saint-Malo's old town and the surrounding coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Tide Dependent Access
+1Cash is King for Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times Daily
Fort National is only accessible at low tide. Always check the schedule before heading out!
Bring Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is typically €5 and cash is often the only accepted payment method.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the fort can be on uneven, sandy, or rocky terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Flag
A flag flying indicates the fort is open. Be aware that flag signals can sometimes be confusing.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times Daily
Fort National is only accessible at low tide. Always check the schedule before heading out!
Bring Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is typically €5 and cash is often the only accepted payment method.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the fort can be on uneven, sandy, or rocky terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Look for the Flag
A flag flying indicates the fort is open. Be aware that flag signals can sometimes be confusing.
Book Guided Tours
Guided tours offer fascinating historical insights into the fort's past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fort National a worthwhile historical site with stunning views, especially when accessible at low tide. However, the reliance on tide schedules and the cash-only payment policy can be inconvenient. Some reviewers have experienced unexpected closures or limited visiting times, leading to disappointment.
"When I arrived at the gate it was €5 and they accepted only cash so I wasn’t able to go in. Views from the gate looking back to the city are stunning and well worth the walk over."
Louise Rowan
"Fantastic with great views. Definitely worth a visit at low tide, it is open when the flag is up. It costs €5 to access the fort, cash only is accepted"
Stuart
"On the Michelin scale, it would be ⭐️, worth stopping in if you’re around, I would not make a dedicated trip just for this. Saint Malo is very nice though."
Mike Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort National is located on a rocky islet accessible from the beach of L'Éventail during low tide. You can walk to it from the old town of Saint-Malo.
No, Fort National is only accessible on foot during low tide. Parking is available in Saint-Malo's old town, and then you walk to the fort.
The most direct route is to walk from the ramparts of Saint-Malo towards the beach of L'Éventail. The fort will be visible and accessible when the tide is out.
Access to Fort National involves walking across potentially uneven terrain at low tide. It may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
The walk from the edge of Saint-Malo's old town to Fort National at low tide typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the tide's extent.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around €5 per person. It's advisable to have cash on hand as card payments may not be accepted.
Fort National is open only during low tide. Look for a flag flying at the fort as an indicator of its opening. Hours can vary daily based on tidal patterns.
Currently, tickets for Fort National are generally purchased on-site. It's best to confirm this closer to your visit, but be prepared for on-site cash purchases.
You must leave the fort before the tide starts to rise and covers the path. The staff will usually give ample warning, but always be mindful of the tide schedule.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket office upon arrival, though specific discounts are not commonly mentioned.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic ramparts, discover WWII German armored cupolas, and enjoy panoramic views of Saint-Malo. Guided tours are available.
A visit typically lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to explore the fort and enjoy the views. This can vary if you take a guided tour.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the fort's history and architecture.
Visiting during low tide in the morning or late afternoon can offer fewer crowds and pleasant lighting for photography. Winter visits can be spectacular with fewer people.
Absolutely! The fort offers fantastic photographic opportunities, especially of the historic architecture and the views of Saint-Malo.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Fort National itself. You'll need to eat in Saint-Malo's old town before or after your visit.
Saint-Malo is famous for its delicious crepes and galettes (savory crepes), often paired with local cider. Seafood is also a popular choice.
The old town of Saint-Malo, just across the bay, is filled with numerous restaurants offering traditional Breton cuisine, seafood, and creperies.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally best to enjoy picnics on the beach or in designated areas in Saint-Malo rather than inside the historic fort.
Typically, there are no cafes or snack bars within Fort National. It's a historical site focused on its military past.
📸 📸 Photography
The ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of Saint-Malo's walled city. Don't miss the unique perspective of the WWII armored cupolas.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset during low tide, provides beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh but still offers great views.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historical sites and protected areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the fort's scale and the surrounding bay. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the old town.
General photography is usually permitted. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage within the fort.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The historical aspects, like the old cannons and WWII cupolas, can spark children's imaginations. Bring snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the fort itself. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must for navigating the potentially uneven and slippery terrain. Consider a guided tour if your children enjoy stories and historical facts, as it can make the visit more engaging for them.
💰 Budget Travelers
Be sure to bring your own water and snacks, as purchasing them on-site or nearby can add up. The real 'cost' is your time and planning to align with the low tide. This makes it an excellent option for travelers looking to experience a significant historical site without a hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss capturing the textures of the granite walls, the imposing WWII armored cupolas, and the dynamic interplay of the sea and the fort during low tide. A wide-angle lens will be invaluable for the expansive views, while a macro lens can capture the intricate details of the stonework and historical artifacts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of Fort National
+2During World War II, the fort was occupied by German forces who added their own defenses, including the notable armored cupolas. These additions highlight the fort's continued strategic relevance across different eras of warfare. Visitors can still see remnants of these WWII installations, offering a fascinating juxtaposition of historical periods within the same structure.
The fort's design embodies Vauban's principles of fortification, emphasizing layered defenses and commanding positions. Its granite construction has withstood centuries of maritime weather and historical conflicts, standing as a testament to its robust engineering and enduring significance to the 'Corsair City' of Saint-Malo.
+1Navigating the Tides: A Unique Visitor Experience
+1Visitors are advised to consult the local tide charts meticulously. The tides in Saint-Malo are among the strongest in Europe, with variations of up to 14 meters. Missing the low tide window means missing the opportunity to visit the fort, and attempting to cross when the tide is rising can be dangerous.
Social media content often captures the dramatic change in the seascape, emphasizing the need for careful planning. +1When the tide is out, the walk to the fort is an experience in itself, offering a different perspective of the bay and the city walls. It's a reminder of the powerful natural forces that have shaped Saint-Malo's history and its maritime identity.
WWII History at Fort National
One of the most striking features noted by visitors is the presence of these German-era cupolas, some of which still bear the scars of conflict, such as a lodged shell. This historical layer adds a somber yet fascinating dimension to the fort, illustrating its strategic importance across different military eras.
Exploring these WWII remnants provides a tangible connection to a more recent, albeit difficult, period of history. It allows visitors to understand how the fort's strategic location continued to be relevant even in modern warfare, making it a site of layered historical significance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit