St Malo Walking

It was something of a relief to awake and find that the wind had significantly abated. Although it was still grey and cold, at least it would be possible to wander the town without getting blown over. So that is what I did.
After breakfast, I headed away from St Malo in the direction of nearby Cancales, most famous for its huge oyster harvest. There are some magnificent homes and hotels on this section of the oceanfront, including the huge and impressive Thermes Hotel. As I walked past I wondered what the rooms would be like in that place, but quickly decided that I have never aspired to hobnob with the rich and famous. I am happy with my little room at the Beaufort. At least I have a beautiful view to the ocean and can observe the spectacular daily procession of the huge tides.
In the afternoon I walked the opposite direction, to the famous Citadel. It is woth pointing out that, although the "old city" of St Malo is certainly impressive, it is largely a reconstruction. Although much of the ramparts are original, around 85% of the buildings inside were blown up or burnt during the Battle of St Malo in 1944. Most of what you see now was built during a massive rebuild in the 1950s. The aim at the time was to rebuild the city "stone by stone". They obviously did a great job, as I am sure that most of the tourists who marvel at the place today while they ride around in the little tourist train, have no idea of the real history of the place.Read more