Campsites in Saint-Malo for a break blending beach and town times in Brittany
Kids not keen on leaving their friends at home and having a hol at a campsite in Saint-Malo? Just tell them there might be pirates to see…
This port town in Brittany is known for its privateering past, with swashbuckling sorts basing themselves inside the settlement’s granite walls during bygone times. These days, however, tourists who want to rove the ramparts and old centre have replaced the maritime marauders (but don’t tell the nippers that).
Ready to join all the other travellers on a trip to this top town? Have a gander at the selection of campsites near Saint-Malo we’ve curated on Pitchup, whether you want to bag a place for your touring caravan or would rather rent a roomy bell tent.
Campsites in Saint-Malo and around: from budget tent pitches to cosy country cabins
Not looking to part with too much cash when camping near Saint-Malo? Bringing your own tent along tends to save money and won’t necessarily mean you’ll be skimping on access to ace amenities. Even the most affordable parks in the region usually come with exciting extras, like bars pouring Breton beers and restaurants serving local fare (mmm, mussels).
Some of the most kitted-out campsites in Saint-Malo have athletic folk sorted too, with facilities like pools, bowling alleys and skate parks, while others are set by river beaches for simple and scenic swimming and fishing hols.
Rather be by the coast than inland? Look out for sites on the beaches close to Saint-Malo or elsewhere by the seaside, like Saint-Cast-le-Guildo around the corner.
And if packing (and then setting up) a tent really doesn’t fit in with the holiday vibe you’re going for, have a look at Saint-Malo glampsites with accommodation to rent. Cabins, huts and lodges are especially stellar choices for a cosy time in the countryside, while yurts bring an exotic flavour to a respite in rural France.
If you’re on a van trip, a touring pitch in Saint-Malo is just what you need. Rented caravans with kitchenettes and cooking utensils supplied, on the other hand, are excellent if you’re planning on DIYing meals.
Set off towards Saint-Malo’s top attractions and activities
Get your bearings on a trip to Saint-Malo by heading up to the ramparts of the city walls overlooking the town and seaside, taking note of Grand Bé island and Fort National in the distance.
Descend to ground level for strolls to the Saint-Malo Cathedral in the old town centre, eyeing up the stained glass windows showcasing the area’s history inside before lingering at La Demeure de Corsaire, a museum inside an 18th-century privateer’s old home, to learn about the town’s pirate-themed past.
Another museum to meander towards is the Musée de la Ville, which shares information about the settlement’s maritime heritage.
Alternatively, skip the cultural attractions and take a brisk beach walk on the Plage du Sillon instead. This three-kilometre stretch of coast starts north of the walled city, and if the sun’s out it's just the spot for spreading out on the soft sand or rockpooling near Fort National (an excellent distraction for les enfants who keep asking where the pirates are).
Mini marauders can hunt for creatures in said pools or at the Grand Aquarium, which houses 600 types of underwater animals, including in a tank dedicated to sharks.
Rather stay outdoors? Wander to one of two islands just across from the old town at low tide for a change of scenery and to see views back towards Saint-Malo as you explore.
If you’re up for holidays in another part of France, how about seeing a bit of Biarritz on the Basque coast?
