Saint-Malo, France
5 - 8 July
"Nowhere resembled Venice, full of lights and the arts, more than
that little Republic of Saint-Malo: in religion, wealth and maritime
chivalry" - François-René de Chateaubriand. Les Mémoires d’Outre Tombe.
Due to its eventful past as a seafaring town (Cité Corsaire),
Saint-Malo is forever associated with the literature and romance of the
sea. Chateaubriand, Lamennais, Jacques Cartier, Surcouf, Duguay-Trouin:
the exploits of these famous former citizens have left an enduring mark
on the memory and temperament of those you will meet there today.
This is the atmosphere that grips you as you enter the gates of the
inner town. Over Saint-Malo blows a breath of adventure, a breeze of
poetry, and invigorating gusts of wind from the sea. The ramparts that
have watched over the picturesque streets and shops for centuries are
there as a reminder of the town's glorious past. Wherever you are, your
eyes are drawn to the indescribable emerald blue of the sea. You can
take a break on the vast expanse of sand on the Sillon beach; take a
brisk walk around the ramparts and breathe in the tangy, salt laden air;
or take a trip on an old sailing vessel - Saint-Malo, romantic,
magical, but never defeated, has a way of seducing all its visitors.
The imposing shadows of the great seafarers' ships on the wall of the
old town are much more than a souvenir: Saint-Malo is a regular host to
The Tall Ships Races when the vessels bring back to the harbour the
town's maritime heritage.
This is more than a voyage into the past, it is also a voyage into the
future. The ships welcome on board young trainees who have to face the
challenges of a lifetime on board in the open seas and, in the process,
learn resilence, life in close community, friendship, mutual help and
all life competencies that will turn them into caring adults, respectful
of the differences between people.