A must-see during your holiday in Saint-Malo, the National Fort should not be missed under any circumstances! Here are our tips for a successful visit.
Separated from our 3 star hotel in Saint-Malo by the old ramparts, the Fort National is a monument that is a must-see. A true testimony to the history of Saint-Malo, it was built on the orders of Louis XIV, before being converted into a prison during the German invasion of the Second World War.
A visit to the National Fort is definitely worthwhile! But where is it located? When is the best time to go and see it? What are the activities to do once you are there?
Where is the National Fort? How do I get there?
To get to the National Fort, you have to go to the great beach of Saint-Malo, also known as the Plage de l'Éventail.
It is impossible to miss as it faces the Castle of Saint-Malo.
Oncethe tricolour flag is raised, it means that the visits can begin. Indeed, the visits depend on the evolution of the tides. This means that visits to the National Fort are only possible at low tide!
You can cross the beach from the Porte Saint-Thomas, or from the Galère car park, which is 300 metres further on.
Entrance tickets are sold at the gate of the Fort for €5 per adult. Children/adolescents aged 6 to 16 pay only €3, and a free paper guide is provided to help them follow the guided tour while having fun.
The 35-minute tours of the fort are led by a local guide who welcomes you at the top of the drawbridge.
They are an opportunity to understand the three centuries of history that the bastion has gone through, as well as the military life inside the fort. Brochures in English, German, Spanish, Italian and Dutch are provided for foreign visitors.
Our best tips to make sure you don't miss anything at the National Fort
If you are planning to visit Fort National with a large family or group, ask for the group rate (from 10 people); you will only pay €4 per adult! There are also discounts for students and the unemployed, so be sure to have your proof of entitlement with you!
Please note that the National Fort is open to the public during school holidays, except for the Christmas holidays, and every day from 1 June to 30 September (including Labour Day, 8 May, Ascension Day and Whitsunday).
To get to the National Fort, the best way is, in our opinion, to leave from the cale Saint-Vincent, at the foot of the Château de Saint-Malo. Remember to watch for the start of the tide, otherwise you will not be able to cross. Once again, if the tricolour mast is raised, this means that the signal is given and that visits are open!
