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Monument · Saint-Malo, Bretanha
Fort National
Fort built in 1689 on an islet opposite the walls, designed by Vauban. At low tide it can be reached on foot across the sand; the interior visit is guided.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Fort National
Fort National stands on the rock of Islet, opposite the ramparts of Saint-Malo. It was built starting in 1689 by the engineer Siméon Garangeau, to plans by Vauban and by order of Luís XIV, to protect the town from English attacks.
The fort was never captured in combat. In the Second World War, the Germans used it as a prison for more than 300 local residents; on the night of August 9–10, 1944, 18 prisoners died under fire from American artillery. A plaque commemorates the victims.
At low tide you can walk across the sand from the plage de l'Éventail. The guided tour goes through the two enclosures and the underground areas. The fort is private property and a listed historic monument.
From the top of the fort there is a full view of the ramparts, the Grand Bé and the bay.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour, including the walk and the guided tour.
Best time
Only at low tide. Visits follow the tide schedule and usually run during the spring and summer season; check dates and times.
How to get there
From the Porte Saint-Thomas in the Intra-Muros, go down to the plage de l'Éventail and cross the sand at low tide.
Tip
Check the tide table beforehand and watch the flag at the fort: it indicates when a visit is taking place. Return with plenty of time before the tide comes in.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fort National
How do you get to Fort National?
On foot, across the sand, from the plage de l'Éventail, only at low tide.
Can you visit freely?
The interior is visited with a guide. The fort is private property; check the opening days.
What happens if the tide rises?
The path becomes covered by the sea. Therefore, check the tide table and do not stay on the islet past the indicated time.