Emerald Coast Road Trip

The Emerald Coast Road Trip is a 171 km journey from Saint Malo to Saint Brieuc in France, taking you through the charming towns of Dinan, Saint Cast le Guildo, and Erquy. The best time of the year to take this trip is during the spring and summer months, when the landscapes and beaches of the Emerald Coast come alive. The roads along the route are in overall good condition, although some sections are curvy and narrow. It is recommended that you take two days to complete this road trip. This road trip is a great way to experience the beauty of the Emerald Coast and make lasting memories. It is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey!

Saint Malo, located in the region of Brittany in France, is a beautiful and historic city that is perfect for beginning the Emerald Coast Road Trip. With its walled city, sandy beaches, and cobbled streets, Saint Malo offers plenty of amazing sights to explore. The best place to start your exploration is the old town, which is surrounded by a wall built in the 17th century. The wall is over two kilometers long and provides a stunning view of the city. Other highlights of the old town are the Cathedral of Saint Vincent, the Château de Saint Malo, the Saint Malo Citadel, and the Fort National. For those flying into the area, the closest international airport is Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to begin your road trip. Saint Malo also offers a number of scenic beaches, such as Plage de l'Éventail, Plage du Sillon, and Plage du Château. The city also boasts several historic monuments, such as the Tour Solidor, the Grand Bé, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. No matter what your interests are, Saint Malo offers something for everyone. From its stunning beaches to its historic monuments, the city is the perfect place to start your Emerald Coast Road Trip.

Starting from Saint Malo and winding through Dinard, this 46 km long road trip is a perfect way to explore the beauty of Normandy. Driving time for this route is less than two hours, so you can easily fit it in a day. Along the way, you will come across some of the most stunning historical sites and some of the most beautiful coastal roads. The narrow sections of the road will take you on a rollercoaster ride of captivating views and breathtaking landscapes. Pay attention to the ancient Roman ruins, the old churches and the beautiful beaches. Dinard is a charming seaside resort town, where you can find many restaurants, shops and cafes. In Dinan, you can explore the cobbled streets and take in the old-world atmosphere. Here, you can visit the Château de Dinan and the Basilique Saint-Sauveur. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Ready to hit the road? This road trip will take you from Dinan to Saint Cast le Guildo, a 47 km journey that can be completed in less than two hours. You will pass through Saint Briac sur Mer, a charming seaside resort town. As you drive along the scenic route, take in the sights of the countryside and keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. Once you arrive in Saint Briac sur Mer, you can visit the Château de Saint-Briac and the 12th century church. After that, you can continue your journey to Saint Cast le Guildo, where you can explore the beaches and take a stroll around the harbor. Don't forget to take in the breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!

Start your road trip experience in Saint Cast le Guildo, France, a picturesque town with a beautiful harbor and stunning beaches. From there, you'll travel 39 km to the charming village of Frehel, where you can admire the lush greenery and take a break from the road. After that, you'll take a winding road to Erquy, a coastal town with a beautiful harbor and sandy beaches. Along the way, you'll be treated to some of the most beautiful scenic views in the region. The road is mostly winding and narrow in some sections, so be sure to drive carefully. In less than an hour, you'll arrive in Erquy, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Start your journey in Erquy, France and take a 39km drive along the beautiful coastline to Pleneuf Val Andre. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean while driving through the narrow sections of the road. Make sure to pay attention to the historical sites and the scenic roads. After your visit to Pleneuf Val Andre, continue your journey to Saint Brieuc and explore the unique attractions the city has to offer. With fewer than two hours of driving, you will be able to enjoy the best of both cities. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

The trip along the Emerald Coast ends in the beautiful city of Saint-Brieuc, located in the north-west of France. This is the perfect destination to wrap up your holiday and explore all the attractions the city has to offer. Start your exploration with a visit to the impressive Saint-Brieuc Cathedral, a splendid example of Breton Gothic architecture. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town and admire the charming half-timbered houses, before heading to the nearby Saint-Michel church. On the coast, you'll find an array of beautiful beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. For a different type of experience, explore the nearby Pink Granite Coast, an area of breathtaking natural beauty. Here you can find the most impressive rocks in the region and take in the spectacular views of the nearby islands. In Saint-Brieuc, you can also enjoy a variety of activities such as sailing, kayaking, and fishing. Besides, the city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Saint-Brieuc Jazz Festival. The closest international airport is Brest Bretagne Airport (BES), located at around 70 km from Saint-Brieuc. Whether you choose to travel by car or by plane, the city of Saint-Brieuc is an ideal place to end your Emerald Coast Road Trip.

Before you set off

Embark on an enchanting 171 km journey along France's Emerald Coast, from the historic walled city of Saint Malo to the rugged cliffs near Saint Brieuc. This Road Trip, known in French as `La Côte d'Émeraude,` offers a tapestry of maritime heritage, Breton culture, and natural wonders, providing an unforgettable adventure through one of France's most picturesque regions.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Your voyage begins in Saint Malo, a city famed for its fortified old town and privateer history. Continue to the medieval town of Dinan, where half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets evoke the past. The route then takes you to Saint Cast le Guildo, a coastal gem with inviting beaches, and on to Erquy, renowned for its pink sandstone cliffs and Cap d'Erquy. Notable stops also include the majestic Cap Fréhel with its iconic lighthouse and the dramatic Pointe de la Garde, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Best Time to Go:

To fully appreciate the Emerald Coast's vibrant landscapes and outdoor activities, plan your Road Trip between May and September. These months typically provide pleasant weather, ideal for beach visits, coastal walks, and exploring the historic towns.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads along the Emerald Coast are well-maintained, some sections may present challenges due to their winding nature and occasional narrow lanes. It’s important for drivers to remain vigilant, particularly during the tourist-heavy summer months or when weather conditions deteriorate.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This Road Trip is accessible to drivers of all skill levels and can be enjoyed within a reasonable budget. For a comprehensive experience, allocate at least two days to savor the journey, allowing time to wander through the charming towns and relax on the pristine beaches.

A good choice for:

The Emerald Coast Road Trip is a captivating blend of coastal splendor and historical intrigue. This region of France is not only home to some of the highest tides in Europe but also shelters diverse wildlife, including seabirds and marine life. Indulge in local culinary specialties like fresh seafood and the region's famous crêpes and galettes. As you traverse this stretch of Brittany, prepare to be swept away by the allure of the Emerald Coast—a haven for those seeking both serenity and adventure.