The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Saint-Malo

There are over 45 dog-friendly hiking trails around Saint-Malo, offering a wide range of options for you and your canine companion. These include coastal paths, scenic loops, and routes through varied landscapes.

While Saint-Malo is generally dog-friendly, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves like Île des Landes (visible from Grouin Point) or near wildlife. Always clean up after your dog to preserve the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast.

For breathtaking coastal views, consider the area around Grouin Point, which offers panoramic vistas of the Emerald Coast and, on clear days, the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Another excellent option is the section of the GR 34 near Pointe de la Varde, providing extensive views of Saint-Malo.

Yes, Saint-Malo offers many easy dog-friendly walks. Approximately 30 of the available routes are rated as easy. A good example is the Roche Froide Point – Île des Landes loop from Plage du Saussaye, which is a shorter, less challenging option perfect for a relaxed outing.

Absolutely. Many of the trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Saussaye Beach – Roche Froide Point loop from Fort du Guesclin is a moderate circular hike that takes you along the coast and offers diverse scenery.

You can explore several natural monuments. Beyond the stunning Grouin Point, consider visiting Parc de la Briantais, a beautiful forest area, or the viewpoints at Barbe Brûlée Point and La Pointe du Puits for more coastal vistas.

Yes, the region is rich in history. While access to interiors might be restricted for dogs, you can certainly enjoy the exteriors and surrounding areas of historical sites. The Cité d'Alet, considered Saint-Malo's birthplace, offers a 270° panorama of the fortified city and the Rance estuary. You can also view impressive structures like Fort du Guesclin and Bidouane Tower from nearby trails.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking with your dog in Saint-Malo. The weather is milder, and the trails are less crowded than in peak summer. However, the coastal paths can be enjoyed year-round, with winter offering a rugged beauty.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, there are several difficult dog-friendly routes. The Roche Froide Point – Île des Landes loop from Cancale is a demanding 20 km hike, and the Besnard Island – Chevrets Coastal Path loop from Rothéneuf is another difficult option, both offering rewarding experiences.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Saint-Malo, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse coastal landscapes, the well-maintained sections of the GR 34, and the stunning viewpoints that make for memorable outings with their dogs.