Archives des GSI 2025 - Page 5 sur 11

Transportation

How to Get to Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo is a well-connected destination offering multiple travel options, whether by road, train, sea, air, or bus. Below is everything you need to know to plan your journey for the GSI Congress 2024.

By road

Saint-Malo is easily accessible from major cities via a network of highways and regional roads:

From Rennes: 1 hour via RD 137.
From Paris: 4 hours via A11 (417 km) or A13 + A84 (403 km).
From Caen: 1 hour 45 minutes via A84.
From Nantes: 2 hours via RD 137.
From Brest: 2 hours 30 minutes via RN 12.

Ample parking facilities are available within the city and near the congress venue.

By Train

The Paris–Saint-Malo high-speed line makes it the most convenient beach destination from Paris.

Direct TGV connections: Paris – Dol-de-Bretagne – Saint-Malo.
Travel times:
- From Paris: Around 2.5 hours.
- From Lille and Lyon: A little over 5 hours.
- From Marseille: Less than 7 hours.

Visit the SNCF website for schedules and bookings.

By Sea

Saint-Malo’s port offers regular ferry services:

To/From Great Britain: Direct and frequent connections to Portsmouth with Brittany Ferries.
To/From the Channel Islands: Regular services to Jersey and Guernsey.

Check with Brittany Ferries or Condor Ferries for the latest schedules.

By Air

The nearest airport is Rennes Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS), located just 70 km from Saint-Malo.

Domestic Flights: Direct flights from major French cities.
International Flights: Year-round and seasonal flights from Europe.

From the airport, Saint-Malo is accessible by car or train in approximately 1 hour.

By Bus

Saint-Malo is part of Brittany’s extensive bus network:

From Paris: Regular and affordable bus connections.
Within Brittany: Regional services operated by Mobibreizh, offering routes to and from Saint-Malo.

Visitor Information

GPS Coordinates for Saint-Malo Center: 48.6483, -2.0077
Parking and Transport: Facilities available around the city for easy access.

Saint-Malo’s beautiful coastal setting makes every route a scenic and memorable start to your visit.

What do in Saint-Malo

What to do in Saint-Malo

Discover Saint-Malo: The Jewel of Brittany

Welcome to Saint-Malo, a city brimming with history, maritime spirit, and natural beauty. From its storied past as a corsair stronghold to its picturesque beaches and vibrant cultural scene, this coastal gem promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

A Stroll Through History

Encircled by imposing granite ramparts, Saint-Malo’s Intra-Muros (walled city) is a treasure trove of history. Wander through its cobblestone streets and uncover:

The Château de Saint-Malo, guarding the city since the 15th century. Its majestic towers now house the town hall and a museum.
The Cathedral of Saint-Vincent, where the tombs of explorer Jacques Cartier and corsair René Duguay-Trouin rest under breathtaking stained-glass windows.
The stately armateurs’ houses, built by wealthy merchants in the 18th century, which stand as testaments to the city’s golden age of trade and privateering.

“Ni Français, ni Breton, Malouin suis!” – The city’s motto reflects its fierce independence as it once declared itself a republic!

Maritime Adventures Await

Dive into the spirit of the sea with activities that connect you to Saint-Malo’s maritime heritage:

Walk the Grand Bé and Petit Bé islets at low tide to explore the forts designed by Vauban and admire the breathtaking views of the bay.
Take a guided tour of the Great Tides, an awe-inspiring phenomenon where the ocean unveils hidden pathways to unique sites.
Discover the life of corsairs and explorers at the Jacques Cartier Museum or aboard a traditional sailing vessel.

Beaches and Beyond

Saint-Malo offers stunning coastlines that cater to relaxation and adventure alike:

Bon Secours Beach: Swim in its seawater pool or enjoy sailing lessons with panoramic views of the bay.
Venture to nearby Dinard, a charming seaside resort, or explore Cancale, famed for its world-class oysters.

Nature Lovers Rejoice

Saint-Malo is a paradise for hikers and cyclists, with a wealth of trails and paths to explore:

The Emerald Coast: Take a scenic walk along cliffs and beaches.
The Mont-Saint-Michel: Just a short drive away, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit.
The Rance Estuary: Perfect for cycling, with its picturesque banks and historic mills.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Cimetière de Bateaux at Quelmer—a hauntingly beautiful graveyard for old boats that captures the area’s deep connection to the sea.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Saint-Malo is not just about its past; its vibrant present offers something for everyone:

Browse art galleries and artisan workshops, where local creators showcase their craft.
Join a guided walking tour with local historians or greeters to uncover hidden gems and local stories.
Indulge in regional delicacies at the bustling markets or cozy restaurants, where you’ll find crêpes, cider, and fresh seafood.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Saint-Malo is more than a destination—it’s an experience that will leave you enchanted. Whether you’re exploring its rich history, soaking up the sea air, or savoring its culinary delights, this jewel of Brittany promises memories to treasure forever.

“Saint-Malo opens its gates to the world, offering history, beauty, and adventure like no other.”

Conference venue

Conference Venue

Conference Hall

Palace "Le Grand Large

Before the bombing of August 1944, which destroyed 80% of the city, the Casino de Saint Malo was located on the site of the Palais du Grand Large.

It was rebuilt in 1954 in its current form and transformed in 1984, under the impetus of the mayor of the time, into a Convention Centre.

The Palais du Grand Large Association was created in 1987 to manage it.

Since July 1, 2019, Le Grand Large has been attached to the SPL Destination Saint-Malo Baie du Mont Saint-Michel. The operational team remains unchanged.