SAINT MALO
Stepping out of the train station in Saint-Malo, the briny scent of the sea air embraced us, and a refreshing breeze gently caressed our faces. The journey to the old city awaited, a mere 15-minute walk from the station. As we approached the harbor, a delightful spectacle unfolded before our eyes: two majestic clipper ships stood gracefully in the foreground, framed by the grand ramparts that safeguard the medieval city.
As we started walking towards the walled city, the sight of ancient stone walls gradually emerged. These impressive fortifications rise high, encircling the historic center of Saint-Malo. The gray stones speak of centuries of history, and you can't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer magnitude of these protective walls. The cobbled streets lead us towards the arched gates, with intricate architecture and imposing presence of the fortified entrance. The drawbridge and massive wooden doors harken back to a time when this city was a strategic stronghold.
Passing through the gateway, we stepped into a world frozen in time. The atmosphere changes instantly, and we were surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval buildings, many of which now house cozy cafes, charming boutiques, and artisanal shops. The streets are narrow and winding, and can't help but feel like you're wandering through a maze of history.
After checking into our hotel we took a walk. We figured we could get the best view of the city by walking atop the huge rampart walls. Walking along the ramparts of Saint-Malo is like taking a step back in time, immersing oneself in the history and grandeur of this coastal fortress. The elevated vantage point offers commanding views of the surrounding sea and the charming old city within the protective embrace of the walls. As we strolled along the sturdy stone path, the sound of seagulls soaring above and the rhythmic crashing of waves against the ramparts created a symphony of maritime ambiance.
The weathered stone walls, worn smooth by the passage of centuries, whispered tales of ancient battles, maritime adventures, and the resilience of the people who once defended this strategic stronghold. The intermittent cannon placements served as reminders of Saint-Malo's storied past as a corsair city, where daring privateers once set sail to conquer the high seas and secure the city's prosperity.
As we continued our promenade, we encountered occasional openings in the ramparts that revealed breathtaking panoramas of the rugged coastline and the expansive ocean beyond. The rhythmic swells of the sea below seemed to synchronize with the steady rhythm of our footsteps, creating a calming sense of harmony with the natural world.
The gentle sea breeze that accompanied us on our walk carried with it the scent of saltwater and adventure. From the ramparts, we could see the old city's quaint rooftops, narrow cobblestone streets, and picturesque squares bustling with life. The juxtaposition of the ancient walls against the lively and colorful scene below was a visual delight.
The rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the shore greeted us like an old friend, inviting us to explore the beach's beauty. The stretch of golden sand seemed endless, extending in both directions as far as the eye could see. With the ancient walls towering behind us, we were amazed at the sheer scale of the fortifications and their proximity to the sea.
As we descended the steps from the ramparts, we were met with a new perspective of Saint-Malo - one that brought us closer to the sea and the vast expanse of the sandy beach below. The transition from the elevated vantage point to the shore offered a refreshing change, and we felt the soft grains of sand beneath our feet, a stark contrast to the solid stone we had walked on above.
As we strolled along the beach, we couldn't help but notice that the tide was low, revealing a pathway to the picturesque Île de Bé, situated across from Saint-Malo. Excited by the opportunity to explore this enchanting island, we ventured forth. Its rugged beauty unfolded before us, defined by its rocky terrain and untamed charm. However, upon reaching the island, our hopes were dampened when we discovered that, unfortunately, it was closed to visitors. Nonetheless, the mere glimpse of its captivating landscape from the shore left a lasting impression, leaving us yearning for another chance to experience its hidden wonders in the future.
Our experiences in Saint-Malo have been nothing short of magical, making it undeniably one of our favorite places. From the moment we stepped out of the train station, the salty sea air and fresh breeze embraced us, setting the tone for a memorable journey. Walking along the ancient ramparts, we immersed ourselves in the city's rich history and breathtaking views of the coast. The charming old city, with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, welcomed us with warmth and authenticity. The beach below the ramparts offered moments of tranquility, where we felt intimately connected to the sea and nature. While our attempt to explore Île de Bé was thwarted, the allure of this picturesque tidal island left us with a desire to return one day. s.
Our time in Saint-Malo was filled with wonder, beauty, and a profound appreciation for the harmony between history and nature, solidifying its place as one of our most cherished destinations.