Hôtel Bristol Union Intra Muros, Saint-Malo, France

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Perched on the northern coast of Brittany, Saint-Malo is one of France’s most enchanting seaside towns. The city is steeped in history, and its Intra-Muros (old town) district is a fortified enclave ringed by massive granite ramparts, largely rebuilt after World War II, yet still brimming with medieval charm. Once a haven for corsairs (French privateers), Saint-Malo retains a bold maritime spirit closely tied to adventure and exploration. I loved walking the city walls and admiring the sweeping views of the sea, the beaches, and the slate rooftops below.

Hôtel Bristol Union Intra Muros

Hôtel Bristol Union sits in the very heart of Saint-Malo’s old town, just a short walk from the marina. Quaint shops, cafés, and restaurants cluster all around, making it easy to slip out for coffee or a bite to eat at any hour. The old town can get quite busy in summer, so being based here allows you to explore the streets in the early morning before the crowds arrive. It’s also an excellent base for a day trip to Dinard, Dinan or the abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel.

I arrived late at night after visiting the abbey, by which time reception had already closed. Fortunately, the wonderful staff had emailed me the door code and left my room key waiting at the reception desk. I fell in love with the hotel’s cosy décor the moment I walked in. I met the team the next morning, and they were thoughtful and kind throughout my stay.



My Comfort Room

The hotel features 27 rooms across six room types: Cosy Single, Petite Cosy, Cosy, Comfort, Triple, and Family Suite. My Comfort room had hardwood floors, chic beige and green décor, a small balcony, and a clean bathroom with basic toiletries. There were also tea and coffee-making facilities in the room, which I really appreciated. I felt right at home and had everything I needed for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.







The balcony was the best part of the room! I really enjoyed having my tea there while watching the people on the streets and in the square below.



Amenities of Hotel Bristol Union

Breakfast at Hôtel Bristol Union was served in a stylish dining room with arched windows. The buffet included fresh fruit and juices, cold cuts and cheese, homemade cakes, crêpes, croissants, granola, yogurt, and fresh bread from a local bakery. Delicious coffee was brought to the table. I hadn’t expected such a generous breakfast and truly enjoyed sampling the local produce.





In Conclusion

I was originally drawn to Saint-Malo after seeing it in the Netflix series All the Light We Cannot See, and decided to visit. Still, I was blown away by the sheer beauty of the city and its historic fortifications. Staying overnight within the city walls and enjoying the peaceful coastal mornings was a truly special experience. I also loved indulging in delicious crêpes and visiting the local shops. By the end of the trip, I felt completely rested and relaxed. Saint-Malo is, without a doubt, the perfect destination for a summer vacation.



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