Visiting Dinard is an essential step during your stay in Brittany and more particularly on the Emerald Coast. Small seaside resort on a human scale, facing Saint-Malo, Dinard will surprise you with its splendid villas overlooking the sea, its town center and its activities to do on site.
In this article, I present to you this beautiful city of Dinard that I really appreciated and which is very pleasant to visit: where to sleep in Dinard, what to do in Dinard, practical advice for coming to visit Dinard but also what to do around Dinard and my opinion on this stay!
Summary:
- Presentation of Dinard
- What to do in Dinard?
- What to visit around Dinard?
- Practical information for visiting Dinard
- Where to sleep in Dinard?
- My opinion on my visit to Dinard
Presentation of Dinard
This small and very chic family seaside resort began to attract many visitors during the 19th century. Indeed, at that time, a Briton had one of the first sea baths built. This type of experience was very popular with the English, who flocked to Dinard in the middle of the 19th century.
A few years later, one of the most beautiful villas in Dinard was built in honor of the visit of Napoleon III. Intended to house his wife, the couple ultimately never came, leaving this magnificent construction to the town of Dinard: the Villa Eugénie.
With these different elements, the seaside resort of Dinard had its best years: casinos, luxury hotels, natural seawater swimming pools, walks, beautiful beaches, etc.
Today, more family-friendly, it still represents a privileged vacation spot and has a highly prized thalassotherapy centre.
What to do in Dinard?
Now that you know a little more about this beautiful city, here are the things to do and visit in Dinard during your stay:
What to do in Dinard?- Point of the Moulinet
- Pointe de la Malouine
- The beaches of Dinard
- Moonlight Walk
- The villas of Dinard
- The natural seawater swimming pool
- Dinard golf course
- Take a thalasso in Dinard
Point of the Moulinet
Let's start our visit to Dinard with a magnificent walk along the coast, at Pointe du Moulinet. This point shelters very pretty villas dominating the bay and having an impregnable view on Saint-Malo on one side and on Dinard and its bay on the other side.
Arriving in Dinard after going around the Pointe du Moulinet, you will be able to observe a rather special swimming pool: it is a seawater swimming pool, very famous in Brittany. When the tide comes in, the pool fills up and once the tide goes out, the water remains contained in the pool.
Pointe de la Malouine
Facing Pointe du Moulinet, Pointe de Malouine extends the walk you started along Pointe du Moulinet, then along Ecluse beach.
Take the path along the coast and look up to observe the splendid villas above you. The view of the bay is also breathtaking.
The beaches of Dinard
Dinard has three main beaches: Ecluse beach, the most central, Prieuré beach, which is located before Moulinet point, and finally, Saint-Enoga beach, located after Malouine point.
Dinard's main beach is the first: Plage de l'Ecluse. It is located at the entrance to the city center, more restaurants and bars are located on the promenade just above.
It is also on this beach that you will find the famous cabins specific to Brittany. These cabins, like those in Deauville, bear the names of celebrities who came to Dinard as part of a renowned festival: it was on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of this festival that the names of the presidents of the jury were inscribed.
The “Dinard Film Festival”Created in 1989, this very British festival honors British films every year, both short films and auteur films. This is an opportunity for Dinard to attract the biggest names in French and British cinema. Among the most famous, there was Roger Moore, Daniel Craig, Monica Bellucci or Claude Lelouche.
Moonlight Walk
This beautiful walk connects Prieuré beach to Moulinet point. You can enjoy a magnificent view of Saint-Malo and its bay, and notice the lush plant species lining this promenade. It is for me a must for a visit to Dinard!
Without forgetting the typical villas which are always present all along the coast and which majestically overhang the bay.
The villas of Dinard
I have been talking to you about the beautiful villas in Dinard since the beginning of this article. Indeed, Dinard is renowned for its many villas, of which more than 400 are classified as protected areas.
Mostly built in the 19th century, their architecture is largely influenced by English inspiration. Bow-windows and verandas are appearing in the small seaside resort and more widely on the Brittany coast.
The natural seawater swimming pool
We talked about it quickly at the beginning of this article, the Dinard seawater swimming pool is easy to spot. Whether you arrive via the Pointe du Moulinet or via the Plage de l'Ecluse, you cannot miss this immense basin of seawater which fills up with the sandstone of the tides.
Seawater swimming pool
Dinard golf course
For golf lovers, that of Dinard is one of the oldest in France. Built more than 100 years ago, it regularly hosts national and international events. This 18-hole course offers breathtaking views during your course. So if you like golf, take advantage of your visit to Dinard to discover its exceptional golf course!
More information on Dinard GolfTake a thalasso in Dinard
Dinard began to attract tourists thanks to its seawater baths. Of course, these baths are still as famous as ever. The Dinard thalasso is located outside the city centre, offering an ideal setting to relax and enjoy this unique moment. You can still take the promenade along the seaside to reach the center of Dinard and admire the magnificent Belle Epoque villas.
Book your thalasso in DinardWhat to visit around Dinard?
After having taken a tour of the things to do and see during a visit to Dinard, here is an overview of what you can visit around Dinard. Indeed, the region is full of must-see tourist sites! Here are the main ones:
What to do around Dinard?- Visit Saint Malo
- Discover the tidal power plant
- Visit Mont-Saint-Michel
- Getting to Saint-Briac and Saint-Lunaire
- Visit Dinan
- Go to Pointe du Grouin
- Visit Fort Lalatte and Cap Fréhel
Visit Saint Malo
Dinard is located just opposite Saint-Malo! Separated by a few minutes by boat, I strongly urge you to visit Saint-Malo from Dinard. There are several reasons for this: already it is much easier to park in Dinard then to take the ferry; then, the city of Dinard offers many accommodations at more affordable prices than Saint-Malo; and finally, the view of Saint-Malo from Dinard is just magnificent!
For walkers, you can even opt for the portion of the GR34 that connects Saint-Malo and Dinard: enjoy a magnificent view over approximately 12 kilometers, then take the boat to return to your starting point.
Regarding the things to see during your visit to Saint-Malo, here are the main essentials:
- Walk around the ramparts
Saint-Malo is surrounded by ramparts. You can go around it and thus have a good overview of the city. From the ramparts, you will also have a breathtaking view of the bay, the beach or even the port of Saint-Malo. - Visit the interior of Saint-Malo
After discovering the surroundings of Saint-Malo, it is imperative to go to the small alleys that make up the old town of Saint-Malo. You will certainly be charmed by the charm of this city and the beauty of its squares and its shops. - Go to the Island of Grand-Bé
As you can see, islands are located off Saint-Malo. At low tide, you can access it on foot thanks to a landscaped path. On Grand-Bé Island, go to Chateaubriand's tomb.
Not far from this island is its little sister: Île du Petit-Bé, also accessible at low tide. - Visit the Fort National
Also accessible at low tide, this fort was built by Vauban. An interesting visit with a passage in a dungeon that will impress you. The view of this fort from the ramparts is magnificent! Especially when surrounded by water at high tide. - Visit the History Museum
Located in the Château de Saint-Malo in the heart of the city, this museum traces the history of the city but also that of the characters who have marked history. This visit is worth it for both the castle and the museum!
Discover the tidal power plant
Before arriving in Dinard, you will have to cross a roadblock. It is actually a tidal power plant on the Rance dam. Inaugurated in 1966, it represents an extremely innovative technological breakthrough in terms of marine and renewable energies.
This plant has been strategically placed: in this place, the tides can reach up to 13 meters. This makes it possible to produce electricity for the equivalent of a city like Rennes, ie approximately 220 inhabitants.
A discovery area has been set up to allow you to learn more about this place and how it works.
Visit Mont-Saint-Michel
One of the most touristic sites in the region: Mont-Saint-Michel! This place is well known to everyone. Located about 1 hour drive from Dinard, you can easily get to Mont-Saint-Michel from Dinard.
This place has many things to do on site:
- Visit the interior of Mont-Saint-Michel
Start your visit to Mont-Saint-Michel by discovering the narrow, winding streets of the centre. You can also walk on the ramparts of Mont-Saint-Michel and admire the breathtaking view of the bay. - Visit the Abbey
One of the main reasons for visiting this place is to visit the Abbey. Right in the middle of Mont-Saint-Michel, dominating this small village and the whole bay, this building is absolutely breathtaking, both in terms of its architecture and its location. - Hike in the bay
Among the activities to do in Mont-Saint-Michel, I highly recommend hiking in the bay. The guides know the bay and its history by heart, they tell you anecdotes about the Mount and its legends. Without forgetting the introduction to quicksand. An experience to live! - Fly over Mont-Saint-Michel
What could be better than taking a little height to admire Mont-Saint-Michel even better! This is possible thanks to the microlight flights offered from Avranches. From 20 minutes to 2 hours, you will be amazed!
Getting to Saint-Briac and Saint-Lunaire
Here are two small seaside resorts close to Dinard. These two places are quite charming and offer beautiful walks along the sea and on the beach. The landscapes change with the tides and give a crazy charm to these places: small fishing ports, beautiful villas, narrow streets, … The colors at sunrise or sunset are also extraordinary.
Visit Dinan
Less than half an hour's drive from Dinard, the magnificent little medieval town of Dinan is a must to visit in the region. Its cobbled streets, its castle, its half-timbered houses or its ramparts, make Dinan a little gem to discover without delay.
End your visit to Dinan with a drink on the terrace on the Port of Dinan, you will be charmed for sure.
To read: Visiting Dinan: what to do and what to see?Dinan is an extraordinary city to discover. We had a real crush on this city and its magnificent cobbled streets. This is why we have dedicated a specific article to our visit to Dinan. I invite you to read it if you are passing through the area during your visit to Dinard! Visit Dinan
Go to Pointe du Grouin
There are many points with panoramic views in Brittany. But this one is more special than the others and deserves that you make the detour to admire its point of view. Indeed, the Pointe du Grouin is the gateway to the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. Its lush nature, the richness of its fauna and flora and its exceptional view of the Bay makes this point a must if you pass nearby!
Not far from this point, I also advise you to make a stop in Cancale, capital of the oyster! Let yourself be tempted by a small tasting in the market and admire the fishermen preparing their boats for the next outings.
Visit Fort La Latte and Cap Fréhel
Heading west from Dinard, you will quickly reach Cap Fréhel. A magnificent place due to its nature, its point of view or its ornithological reserve. Cap Fréhel is also the ideal place to admire the start of races such as the famous Route du Rhum.
Not far from this Cape, I recommend you to visit Fort La Latte. This 14th century castle welcomes visitors and allows them to access the heart of the castle, whose location is just exceptional. You will have a breathtaking view of the surroundings and in the distance. The colors are wonderful. The interior of the castle as well as its courtyard are very interesting and very well renovated.
Practical information for visiting Dinard
-
When to visit Dinard?
The question of the weather and the best time to visit Dinard will arise when preparing your stay. Indeed, visiting Brittany requires adapting to the weather. The climate is rather humid and rainy but the temperatures are mild, both in winter and in summer.
If you want to make the most of the beaches, the tides and the city, then the ideal is to plan a stay between the months of April and October. You will have very decent days with precipitation certainly, but less frequent than in the middle of winter. Of course, if you want to avoid the crowds, plan a stay outside July and August. -
Accommodation in Dinard?
We address this very important question in the following section: hotels, bed and breakfasts, campsites, etc. We will see all the possible alternatives for accommodation in Dinard.
-
How to come to Dinard?
Dinard is easily accessible by car, it is this means of transport that I advise you to visit Dinard: you can move around as you wish to visit the tourist sites around Dinard.
More information about Dinard airport
Otherwise, boats connect Dinard and Saint-Malo, so you can easily take a ferry to visit Dinard during the day if you are staying in Saint-Malo.
If you are traveling by train, then you will need to arrive in Saint-Malo and then take the ferry or a bus.
The last possibility is the plane. Dinard has a small airport offering regular connections with Great Britain. -
Where to park in Dinard?
The question of parking in Dinard is a question that is rather easy to answer. It is much easier to park there than in Saint-Malo. Several options are available to you: park in the alleys around the hyper center, the places are for the most part free and you are a 10-minute walk from the city center; otherwise, you can opt for paid parking, which will have the advantage of being much better placed for your visit to Dinard.
-
How long to visit Dinard?
Dinard is a very pleasant town to visit and live in. The city itself can be visited quite quickly, in one day you can go around its beaches, its points and the city center. On the other hand, you can easily stay a week in Dinard to enjoy the city, its thalassotherapy while visiting the surroundings.
Where to sleep in Dinard?
Let's conclude this article with a central element of the organization of your stay in Dinard: accommodation! Where to sleep in Dinard is an essential question, which we will answer immediately. Whether hotels, bed and breakfasts and even campsites, you will inevitably find accommodation that will meet your expectations.
Where to sleep in Dinard?Upscale hotels
Let's start this part on the hotels of Dinard with some of the most beautiful establishments of the city. Indeed, as a seaside resort, Dinard offers top-of-the-range establishments of high quality.
Hotel Castelbrac
Probably one of the most beautiful hotels in Dinard. Its geographical location, its decoration, the welcome of the staff, … Everything is there to offer you the best room in Dinard! Without forgetting the comfort of the bedding and the services offered on site. A safe bet that I recommend for staying in Dinard. Standing, Location, Reception See prices
Royal Emerald
A stone's throw from the beach, this beautiful hotel will also delight more than one. More accessible than the Castelbrac hotel, it is comfortable and ideally located. The staff will give you a warm welcome. Do not hesitate to ask for some advice for visiting Dinard, they will be happy to answer your questions! Location, Decoration, Hospitality See rates
Novotel Thalassa
Let yourself be tempted by this beautiful establishment: this is where you can enjoy the Dinard thalassotherapy. Slightly out of the city centre, but facing the sea and along the path leading to the center of Dinard, this hotel is ideal if you want to enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating stay. View, Location, Thalasso See the rates
More accessible hotels
I now offer you a suggestion of more accessible hotels to stay in Dinard. These hotels offer rooms for less than €100 per night (price subject to change depending on the season and local events).
Hotel Didier Meril
This is a small, quite decent hotel, located on the Prieuré beach side. The city center of Dinard is therefore a stone's throw away. The hotel enjoys a very pleasant view of the bay. Very satisfying value for money! Location, Home, View See prices
Park Hotel
Trendy decoration, location in the heart of Dinard and less than 10 minutes walk from the main beach, this hotel is quite charming. Free parking spaces nearby, the staff will also be able to advise you so that your stay in Dinard is perfect. A beautiful address! Location, Decoration, Hospitality See rates
Hotel Les Alizes
This hotel is a little further from the beach than the previous ones. It will take a quarter of an hour's walk. However, this property is located in a quiet area. It offers comfortable, clean rooms and a warm welcome from the staff. View, Location, Thalasso See the rates
Rent an apartment in Dinard
Here is an alternative solution to the hotel but which can be interesting financially and from a practical point of view as well: renting an apartment. Make yourself at home during your stay in Dinard and enjoy accommodation ideally located and in perfect autonomy. Here is my suggestion of apartments for rent in Dinard:
Residence Beaurivage
To start, here is an apartment ideally located in Dinard: a stone's throw from the Prieuré beach. This ideal location allows you to access the city center on foot. Able to accommodate up to 8 people, this apartment is well decorated, comfortable and clean. A warm welcome and a view of Saint-Malo to complete it all! Location, Cleanliness, View
Sea & Garden
Here is my favorite among these 3 apartment proposals: this one is beautifully decorated, it has a garden and the facilities it has are perfect. Located in a very quiet area, you will feel at home very quickly! Slightly out of the city center, you can walk there in about 30 minutes, otherwise opt for a bus or your car. Calm, Decoration, Comfort See prices
XNUMXth century villa
Finally, I have a little surprise in store for you: a magnificent villa, typical of the region. The apartment presented here is absolutely charming! Ideal for 2 people, you have a breathtaking view of the beach, direct access to it and a very practical apartment to live in. The equipment is comfortable and of good quality. Regarding the location, this accommodation is located not far from the Dinard thalassotherapy centre. The path that leads to the city center is close by. View, Location, Comfort See rates
Campsites around Dinard
Let's finish this part on where to sleep in Dinard with these few campsites around Dinard. There are few campsites in Dinard, so you will have to move away slightly to find these establishments.
Port Blanc campsite
Here is a first campsite located in Dinard but away from the city. It takes around 30 minutes to walk to the Pointe de la Malouine, which is quite doable and very pleasant, especially when the weather is nice. You will have a beautiful view of the sea, access to the beach, various activities and a wide choice of accommodation and pitches. Dinard, Pitches See prices
Camping Sea Green Emeraude
Admittedly, this campsite is outside Dinard, less than 20 minutes by car, but it is a very comfortable campsite and offers a beautiful aquatic area that will appeal to children. Saint-Briac-sur-Mer is also a very beautiful place with beaches and beautiful walks. Regarding accommodation, you will have the choice between mobile homes, unusual accommodation or free pitches for tents or motorhomes. Saint-Briac-sur-Mer, Equipment See the prices
The Yurt Village
Let's conclude this trip on where to sleep in Dinard with this atypical campsite: a village of yurts! Live an unusual family experience by staying in these yurts. With a capacity of 4 people, you will travel for one or more nights! This campsite is located less than a 30-minute drive from Dinard town centre. Plessix-Balisson, Unusual See prices
My opinion on my visit to Dinard
How not to fall under the undeniable charm of this charming little seaside resort! Everything is there for an ideal stay in Dinard. Visit of the city and discovery of its magnificent villas; proximity to Saint-Malo and other unmissable places such as Mont-Saint-Michel; beaches and pleasant walks by the sea, to the rhythm of the tides, …
You will have understood it, Dinard is a little favorite in Brittany. Even if the visit of the city itself is done quickly, Dinard is very well placed to visit the surroundings, but it is also an ideal city for walking, resting and taking your time.
