Visiting Brittany out of season is a promise of a breath of fresh sea air without the summer crowds. The air is invigorating and the coast is even more beautiful when the sea is unleashed. In November, the Route du Rhum sailing race attracts the world’s greatest sailors for a transatlantic solo race towards the French West Indies. In winter, Saint-Malo reveals its charms, and the weather is mild enough for hiking enthusiasts.
The Route du Rhum – a popular sporting event in St-Malo!
The Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe is a solo transatlantic regatta that takes place every 4 years between Saint-Malo, in Brittany, and Pointe-à-Pitre, on
Guadeloupe islands, in the French West Indies. On November 6, 2022, the 12th edition of a mythical and exciting competition will begin, bringing together some of the world’s greatest sailors in a race against the elements and against the clock. A total of 120 skippers will compete in the most exceptional single-handed transatlantic regatta. The sailors will be divided into six categories: 55 Class40, 25 Imoca, 12 Rhum Mono, 12 Rhum Multi, 8 Ocean Fifty and 8 Ultimes. This exceptional fleet will be moored between the Vauban and DuguayTrouin quays ten days before departure. The race takes place at sea, but it is on land that the festive atmosphere is at its high. In Saint-Malo, a large race village of 10,000 m2 brings together more than 400 exhibitors who will open their doors for the pleasure of visitors ten days before the kick-off. This year, St-Malo hosts a unique exhibition called ‘50 stories of the Route du Rhum’.
Visiting Saint-Malo in December, January or February is a privilege. Freed from tourists, the corsair city reveals pavements streets lit by illuminated
shops decorated with great detail. Its fortifications, facing the sea, are less crowded and allow you to enjoy, without haste, the sumptuous views. At night, the city comes alive with mythical bars such as Le Café d’En Bas de la Rue du Bout de la Ville – what a name! – opposite the port, a traditional tavern founded in 1820. Here, time travel feels real! Saint-Malo and its bay are home of the highest tides in Europe. During high tides, the spectacle is impressive. An incredible moment orchestrated by nature. The best spot to fully enjoy the show is on the town walls at Fort à la Reine opposite the Fort National. At low tide, take advantage of the nature walks organised by the local tourist board to discover the seashore and its ecosystems
This walk follows in the footsteps of the customs officers on the iconic GR34 coastal path, starting from the estuary of Frémur river in Saint-Briac-surmer. Many have cracked for this charming corner of Brittany: sailors, Belle Epoque bathers and artists, from Renoir to Signac. The trail runs alongside protected beaches and the rugged shoreline. From the Nessay peninsula and its prestigious castle to Cap Fréhel headland, it reveals its majestic views over the sea and the coastline. Its stony and wooded paths finally take you to more earthly delights at the elegant Nessay bar in Saint-Briac-sur-Mer. A wonderful teatime where time stands still!
In Saint-Briac-sur-Mer, anchored on its peninsula, Le Nessay castle is more than a hotel and restaurant: it is a lively place that is open to everyone, offering quality of service that is proportional to its exceptional location, placing people at its heart. Each of the 17 bedrooms, models of comfort and elegance, has sea views. Pampered by the team, you will enjoy simple and perfectly executed meals in the restaurant; in the bar, tapas and shared platters are on the menu; and on the terrace, at sunset, relax and have a cocktail with your your friends.
