Walking the Ramparts of San Malo

August 14th

After two days on the bikes and a forecast for some rain we decided to drive to San Malo and find out what makes this walled city such a popular attraction.  San Malo is a port city located on the northwest coast of France on the English Channel.  The granite walls encircle the city and are easily accessed by steps all around the ramparts.  The views are amazing!  The city was once occupied by privateers (pirates approved by the king) and their houses line one section inside the walls.  The city was damaged during WWII by French and American bombardments because it was occupied by the Germans.  The restoration makes it possible to see what it was like back in its heyday.  The cathedral of Saint-Malo has both Gothic and Romanesque styles and has stained glass windows depicting the history of the city.