France - Brittany Day 3 - St Malo

 During the middle ages St Malo was a fortified town. It was the home of pirates and French corsairs, mainly because of the independent attitude of the inhabitants.

 On the landward side, these gates provide entrance to the town.

 Once inside, there are many ways to get to the ramparts and walk around the town and take in the seaside. Parking is free off season on the North Eastern side of the walls.

 There are a few forts nearby, built to add to the defenses of St Malo. This one is accessible during low tide.

 The inner town is a mix of old and new buildings. They have kept consistency by ensuring that new buildings are in the old style.

 There is a maison du Quebec here. This is a club where those from the Canadian province of Quebec can meet or locals can get information about this province for travel of business. That's because of...

 ...this man. Jacques Cartier. He is the first recorded European explorer of the Saint Lawrence and the founder of Stadacona which became l'habitation which became Quebec city, founded in 1608. He also explored a lot of what is now Eastern Canada. He was born here in St Malo and also sailed from here.

 A very original street name, which translates as "the cat who danced".

 An inner defensive structure in case the outer walls were breached. It has been turned into a park.

 A boat launch.

 This pool fills up with sea water and warms itself as the tide goes out and sun shines onto it.

 Another view of the inner streets at night. Property looks expensive here.

The view of the main gate from the inside of the walls.

All and all a very enjoyable quick visit. They have an explorer's museum that I'd like to visit the next time I'm by.