Posted on February 19, 2010 by Fiona Hilliard

Saint Malo in Brittany, France is a summer holidaymaker’s dream.  Between its sandy beaches thrilling watersports and historic attractions, it genuinely offers something for all ages.

Oh, and to seal the deal, it has a warm, temperate climate. If you’re planning a visit this year, it’s worth booking your Saint Malo car hire now, as cars sell out quite fast.  The nicest months to visit are between May and September, when rainfall is at its lowest and temperatures simmer around 23C.  As you’d expect, the hottest months are July and August, when the mercury rises above 30C (86F).

Saint Malo is located conveniently close to Dinard, on the rugged coastline above the Rance.   It was once the number one spot for Edwardian holidaymakers.  Today people still travel here in their droves for a leisurely walk along the promenade.  All along the seafront, you’ll find beautiful buildings that ensure that the town still retains its elegant, old world charm.

The nicest beach in Dinard is La Grande Plage, a long stretch of sand situated between the two peninsulas that mark the outskirts of the old town.  It is a favourite with families and is renowned for becoming crowded on hot days.  Smaller and more isolated beaches can be found at Plage de St Enogat, which is a 20 minute-walk from the village of St Enogat or Plage du Priuré, a 10-minute walk from Dinard.

The appearance of Dinard changes dramatically during high and low tides.  Seawater collects in in the salt flats during low tide for those who want to swim in the sea.

The area surrounding Saint Malo offers many opportunities for car hire.  It is possible to reach Mont Saint-Michel, the UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The rocky islet is especially photogenic, with a Benedictine Abbey taking pride of place on the rock islet.