Just off the coast of Saint-Malo lies the private tidal island of the Petit Bé, where you’ll find a 17th-century fort built by renowned military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. The island is accessible on foot at low tide from its adjacent big brother Grand Bé island and the Bon-Secours beach on the mainland. Take a guided tour with the island’s owner and pick up an English leaflet to learn the fascinating military history of the landmass.
Snap photos of the iconic fort, which was constructed to stave off attacks from the British and the Dutch. It was built in 1689 as part of a defensive system designed by Vauban that included the city walls and other forts in the region. Hear how the fort helped to successfully defend the island from fleets in 1693 and 1695.
Stay in the fort, which is available for nightly rent. It has been restored to its past glory, after 150 years of abandonment. Relax in the large dining hall that can seat 50 people. Sleep in a majestic chamber with a fireplace.
Enjoy the wonderful views of the island from the neighboring Grand Bé and parts of the Bon-Secours beach just outside the walls of Saint-Malo.
Take care not to get stranded on the island for 6 hours when the tide comes in. Do not attempt to swim back to the mainland, as the current is strong. Speak with the Saint-Malo tourist office about the tide schedule.
Pay a small fee for a guided tour of the fort and get discounts for children. Toddlers can go for free. Make a reservation on the island’s official website. Spot the flag hovering over the fort to indicate it’s open to the public.
The Petit Bé is in the English Channel, just beyond the city walls of Saint-Malo. Find the island in the eastern part of Brittany in northwestern France. Drive west from Paris for 270 miles (430 kilometres) to get here in around 4.5 hours.
