The island of Grand Bé, breathtaking views

Known for thousands of years

A few dozen years ago, a worked flint was found on the island, which suggests that human activity took place there in prehistoric times, more than 100,000 years ago. After all, what is a curiosity to humans today must surely have been so at the time. It's easy to imagine early man being fascinated by this untimely island, accessible on foot.

The Second World War

The island played an important role in the capture of Saint-Malo by the Germans during the Second World War. Its unique location off the coast of the town and the ease with which equipment could be brought in at low tide made it a prime location for a defence post. Bunkers were built for 4 firing posts and tanks for anti-aircraft guns, as well as several shelters. The Americans were able to take possession of the German post in August 1944, thanks to information on tide times.

Le Grand Bé is just 500 m from the ramparts of Saint-Malo on foot. Of course, you'll need to check the tide times to avoid getting your socks wet. Once the Grand Bé has become an island, it takes 6 hours to become a peninsula again. Don't be one of those unpatient tourists who come back wading in water above the waistline - it's really not that uncommon! The path to get there is completely smooth and not very long at all.

Pay your respects at the curious tomb of Chateaubriand

Many visitors come to the island to meet the famous philosopher Chateaubriand, whose tomb is a place of literary and cultural pilgrimage. It was the man of letters himself who decided to have his tomb buried here. He asked for a "small piece of land" for his burial, referring to the Grand Bé. His request was initially refused, but was finally accepted by the next mayor. In 1848, he was buried on the famous island. Today, his grave is located on a small promontory, where the epitaph reads "A great French writer wanted to rest here to hear only the sea and the wind. Passers-by, respect his last wish". His name does not appear, as he wished.

Superb views

Once you've reached the highest point, simply turn around to enjoy a breathtaking view of Saint-Malo and its ramparts. The island is large enough for you to wander around and enjoy your surroundings. Walks along its steep paths offer breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding cliffs, creating a picturesque landscape worthy of a postcard. However, be careful not to stray off the beaten track, as bombs from the Second World War may still be lying around, ready to spoil your little escapade: it's hard to get back to Saint-Malo without your legs.

Further back is the Petit Bé, a seventeenth-century fort designed by Vauban. For a long time, it was abandoned by the town of Saint-Malo. In 2000, an association decided to tackle its renovation. Since then, entrance fees have helped to finance the restoration of the monument. Like its big sister, the Ile du Petit Bé is only accessible at low tide.

🌊 Tides: To make the most of low tide, we recommend allowing 1? hours before and after the time of low tide to enjoy 3 hours of sightseeing with peace of mind.

🥾 It's advisable to be reasonably well equipped for walking, although the path to the island is cemented, this is not the case for the island's footpaths.

👛 Prices: Only access to Petit Bé costs 6 euros. Access to Grand Bé is completely free.