About
Dinard is a seaside town on the Emerald Coast of Brittany, in north-western France. It is an elegant resort with a Belle Époque character, and it makes an easy and pleasant base for a relaxed stay by the sea.
What to expect
The town is known for its Victorian villas and grand hotels, which line the scenic coastal promenades. Walking along them gives you a steady sense of the architecture of a resort built for leisurely summers. Dinard is often compared to the French Riviera for its refined atmosphere, though its setting is distinctly Breton.
The views are one of its strongest features. From the coast you look out across the Rance estuary to Saint-Malo, so the promenades offer a changing picture of water, boats and the old walled city opposite.
The beaches and the town
- Pristine beaches along the coast, suited to a slow afternoon by the water.
- A casino, for an evening out in the resort style.
- A film festival atmosphere that gives the town a cultural flavour during its events.
Because Dinard faces Saint-Malo across the estuary, a visit pairs naturally with a trip to that neighbouring city, so the two can be seen in one outing.
Dinard suits visitors who want a refined seaside setting, graceful streets and wide views rather than a busy beach scene. Plan your visit around the promenades and the estuary, and allow time simply to sit and look out over the water.