Tour Bidouane Bastion
A historic 15th-century bastion on Saint-Malo's walls, offering dramatic sea views and a glimpse into maritime defense history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dramatic waves and sea views
Tour Bidouane Bastion
Best Time
Dramatic waves and sea views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 15th-century bastion on Saint-Malo's walls, offering dramatic sea views and a glimpse into maritime defense history.
"This is the most scenic place and a must when in St Malo."
Check Tide Times First! 🌊
Experience the bastion at both high and low tide for completely different, amazing views.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The historic ramparts and rocky areas require sturdy footwear for safe exploration.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 254 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bastion's Majestic Presence
Tour Bidouane
A formidable 15th-century tower, a key part of Saint-Malo's historic fortifications.
Panoramic Sea Views
Top of the Bastion
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the English Channel and the surrounding coastline.
High Tide Spectacle
Base of the Bastion
Witness the powerful force of the ocean as waves crash against the ancient stone.
Low Tide Exploration
Rocky Promontory
Discover the unique rocky foundation of the bastion revealed by the receding tide.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Tides and Views
Historical Echoes and Artistic Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! 🌊
Experience the bastion at both high and low tide for completely different, amazing views.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The historic ramparts and rocky areas require sturdy footwear for safe exploration.
Capture the Drama :camera_with_flash:
The contrast between the ancient bastion and the powerful sea is incredibly photogenic.
Listen for Music :musical_note:
You might be lucky enough to hear a pianist playing, adding a magical touch to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! 🌊
Experience the bastion at both high and low tide for completely different, amazing views.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The historic ramparts and rocky areas require sturdy footwear for safe exploration.
Capture the Drama :camera_with_flash:
The contrast between the ancient bastion and the powerful sea is incredibly photogenic.
Listen for Music :musical_note:
You might be lucky enough to hear a pianist playing, adding a magical touch to your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Tour Bidouane Bastion, calling it the most scenic and a must-visit in Saint-Malo. The historical significance, combined with stunning sea views and occasional live piano music, creates a wonderfully moving and elemental experience. Some enjoy the dramatic high tide, while others prefer exploring the rocky base at low tide.
"I think this is the most scenic place and a must when in St Malo. When I was there, the pianist was playing under the clear sky and it was wonderfully moving and elemental."
kentarieeenu 3rd
"It was against this tower that the Anglo-Dutch tried to operate an "infernal machine" in 1663, which consisted of a ship full of explosives that was sent near the tower to explode it. It is one of the main fortified towers of the walls. It is 23 meters high and 13 meters wide, and was part of the desire to make of Saint-Malo an important fortress. It was built on a rocky promontory during the second half of the 15th century. It takes its present name in 1691, when it was rebuilt."
Natalie Daz
"The most forward point of walled city. Wonderful. Try it at high tide and low tide 😂"
Rony Honein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tour Bidouane Bastion is located on the historic city walls of Saint-Malo. You can reach it by walking along the ramparts from the main gates of the walled city. Parking is available in designated areas outside the walls, followed by a walk.
While there isn't direct public transport to the bastion itself, Saint-Malo is well-served by buses. You can take a bus to the city center and then walk along the ramparts to reach the bastion.
The most scenic approach is by walking the historic city walls. This offers stunning views as you make your way towards the bastion.
Yes, there are several paid parking lots located outside the walled city of Saint-Malo. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the ramparts and the bastion.
The bastion is a prominent feature of the Saint-Malo fortifications and can be seen from various points along the coast and from the city walls themselves.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the historic city walls and the Tour Bidouane Bastion is generally free. You can walk along the ramparts without purchasing a ticket.
As the bastion is part of the open city walls, there are no specific opening hours. It is accessible at all times, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and views.
No, there is no entrance fee to access the Tour Bidouane Bastion or the surrounding ramparts. It's a public space for all to enjoy.
While the city walls are technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to potential safety hazards and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for the best experience.
Many guided tours of Saint-Malo's historic ramparts will include a visit to or pass by the Tour Bidouane Bastion. Check with local tour operators for options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive 15th-century architecture, enjoy panoramic views of the sea and coastline, and learn about its historical significance as a defensive structure.
Absolutely! The bastion offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially at high tide with dramatic waves or at low tide revealing the rocky base.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, visiting during high tide can provide the most dramatic sea views.
While there aren't formal exhibits within the bastion itself, its architecture and location tell a story of Saint-Malo's maritime and defensive history.
You can walk along the ramparts and reach the top of the bastion's accessible areas, offering elevated viewpoints. Be mindful of uneven surfaces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the bastion itself. However, the walled city of Saint-Malo, just a short walk away, offers numerous restaurants, creperies, and cafes.
Saint-Malo offers delicious Breton specialties, including fresh seafood, galettes (savory crepes), and sweet crepes, along with traditional French cuisine.
Yes, you can bring a picnic to enjoy on the ramparts or near the bastion. It's a lovely way to soak in the atmosphere. Please remember to take all your trash with you.
Explore the charming streets within the walled city for a wide variety of dining options, from casual creperies to more upscale seafood restaurants.
Look for creperies and bakeries within the walled city for more affordable and delicious meal options. Grab a quick galette or a pastry.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the bastion offers panoramic views. The base at high tide with crashing waves is dramatic, and the rocky promontory at low tide is unique.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) provides beautiful light. High tide offers dramatic sea action, while low tide reveals interesting textures.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography at the bastion or on the city walls. However, commercial photography may require permission.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the sea or distant landmarks. A polarizing filter can enhance sea shots.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially over populated or sensitive historical sites. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit