A perfect short getaway to northern France awaits, brimming with luxury, relaxation, and adventure. Begin your journey with a scenic Brittany Ferries ride from Portsmouth to St Malo and a return trip to the UK on Condor via Guernsey to Poole. As you arrive in the historic port city of St Malo, known for its walled city, cobbled streets, and rich maritime heritage, prepare to be enchanted by its charm.

Getting there and back

Our overnight journey with Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth to St Malo was fantastic. The 12-hour voyage in a comfortable, well-appointed cabin, including a shower room, made for a restful trip. The highlight was the à la carte dining experience, offering an exquisite menu with fresh, delicious options that rivalled fine dining on land. The staff were attentive and professional, ensuring our needs were met throughout the journey. The overall ambience was the perfect way to begin our short French trip. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a delightful and stress-free way to travel to St Malo.

Our return trip to the UK from St Malo on Condor Ferries, via Guernsey to Poole, was outstanding. The journey was smooth and quick, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience. We opted for luxury seating in the Club Class cabin, which elevated our comfort with spacious, plush seats. The table service offering pub-style food and a complimentary welcome drink was a delightful touch, providing tasty and satisfying meals right at our seats. The attentive and friendly staff enhanced the experience, making the journey extremely comfortable and enjoyable. We highly recommend Condor Ferries for a premium and efficient travel option.

Travelling by ferry is a relaxing and enjoyable part of your holiday. From the generous luggage allowances included in the price of your ticket and the ability to bring your vehicle, to the space and fresh air available on board and of course the great views that come from travelling on the water, compare the various ferry routes on Discover Ferries.

For all travel to and from the UK on Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries you will require:

Documents: All passengers need a valid passport to travel with us
Your vehicle: Check your vehicle meets the requirements for the country you are visiting
Plan your journey to the port: Passengers must check in at least 60 minutes before departure. If you are checking in with a pet, you must arrive at least 90 minutes before departure.

St Malo

Your stay will be nothing short of luxurious, with an array of coastal hotels offering breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities. We enjoyed the hospitality of two fabulous hotels, Le Nouveau Monde and Grand Hotel Des Thermes. These hotels provide an ideal blend of comfort and elegance, ensuring a restful retreat.

St Malo boasts some of the most stunning beaches in northern France. Spend your days lounging on the golden sands of Plage de Bon Secours or taking a refreshing dip in the natural seawater swimming pool. For those seeking a more active beach experience, the area’s pristine shores offer opportunities for windsurfing, sailing, and beach volleyball.

Beyond the beaches and food, St Malo offers plenty to see and do. Explore the historic ramparts, visit the Grand Aquarium, or take a boat trip to the nearby island of Grand Bé. The nearby town of Dinard, with its scenic coastal paths, is worth a visit, it also has a great Saturday market and there are dozens of boutiques, restaurants, bars and cafés in which to spend your hard-earned euros. With its blend of natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and cultural richness, a short getaway to St Malo promises a memorable experience.

The Hotels

Your stay will be nothing short of luxurious, with an array of coastal hotels offering breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities. We enjoyed the hospitality of two fabulous hotels, Le Nouveau Monde and Grand Hotel Des Thermes. These hotels provide an ideal blend of comfort and elegance, ensuring a restful retreat.

Le Nouveau Monde

My recent stay at Le Nouveau Monde hotel in St Malo, France, was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we arrived, we were treated to exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere that made our visit truly memorable.

We had the pleasure of staying in a junior suite, which exceeded all our expectations. The suite was incredibly spacious and beautifully designed. One of the highlights was the breathtaking view of the long, stunning beach from our room. It was a delight to wake up to the sight of the ocean and to unwind in the evening watching the sunset, and fall asleep with the soothing sounds of the waves.

The suite featured a large balcony and an expansive terrace equipped with comfortable outdoor furniture, providing the perfect setting for relaxation. Whether we were enjoying a morning coffee or an evening drink, the panoramic views and fresh sea breeze made it very special.

The hotel’s location is ideal for beach lovers, with easy access to a variety of activities. From kite flying, windsurfing and kayaking to strolls along the shore, there was always something to do and watch. The vibrant energy of the beach, combined with the tranquil elegance of our suite, created a perfect balance for a fabulous getaway.

Breakfast at Le Nouveau Monde was a delightful way to start each day. The breakfast buffet offered a huge variety of options, catering to all tastes and preferences. From fresh fruits and pastries to an array of cheeses and cold cuts, everything was beautifully presented and of the highest quality. We particularly enjoyed the freshly baked croissants and the selection of local jams, which added a lovely touch of regional flavour. There was also a station for made-to-order omelettes, ensuring that guests could enjoy a hot, personalised breakfast. The attentive staff made sure that our coffee cups were never empty and that we had everything we needed to begin our day.

Dinner at the hotel’s restaurant was a truly memorable culinary journey. The menu featured a superb selection of dishes that highlighted local ingredients and French culinary traditions. Each evening, we were treated to a gourmet experience that combined innovative flavours. The seafood dishes were particularly outstanding, reflecting the freshness and quality of the local catch. The wine list was impressive, offering a variety of excellent choices that perfectly complemented our meals.

The ambience of the restaurant was elegant yet relaxed, with a stunning view of the beach providing a picturesque backdrop for our dining experiences. The service was impeccable, they were knowledgeable about the menu and provided excellent recommendations, enhancing our dining experience.

Overall, our visit to Le Nouveau Monde hotel exceeded our expectations in every way, from the welcome, the suite, the location and the dining, it was superb and we highly recommend Le Nouveau Monde.

A: Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde, Chaussée du Sillon, 35400 Saint-Malo, France
T: +33 2 99 40 75 14
W: Hotel Le Nouveau Monde
E:  Reception

Grand Hotel Des Thermes

From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the hotel’s majestic facade and its classic, sophisticated ambience. Our room was a true haven of comfort and style, beautifully designed with a keen eye for detail. The decor seamlessly blended traditional elegance with modern amenities, creating a space that was both luxurious and inviting. Large windows offered sweeping views of the coastline, allowing us to enjoy the natural beauty of St Malo from the comfort of our room.

Dining at the Grand Hotel Des Thermes was an exceptional experience. Our evening meal was a culinary delight, with each dish showcasing the finest local ingredients with artistic presentation. The menu offered a wonderful variety of options, each more tempting than the last. We particularly enjoyed the seafood dishes, which were fresh and flavourful.

Breakfast was equally impressive, featuring a sumptuous buffet with a wide range of high-quality options. From freshly baked pastries and bread to an assortment of cheeses, fruits, and hot dishes, every item was meticulously prepared and presented. The attentive service ensured that our dining experience was seamless and enjoyable. We were perfectly set up for our busy day of sightseeing.

The hotel’s facilities were outstanding, including a luxurious spa and wellness centre that provided the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The staff were professional, friendly, and always eager to assist, making us feel welcome and well-cared for throughout our stay.

In conclusion, the Grand Hotel Des Thermes offers an unparalleled experience of luxury and refinement. Its stunning location, beautifully designed rooms, and exceptional dining make it a standout choice for anyone visiting St Malo. We left with cherished memories and a desire to return to this exquisite hotel. Highly recommended for an unforgettable stay.

T: +33 2 99 40 75 00
E: Reservations
A: Le Grand Hôtel des Thermes, Grande Plage du Sillon, 100 Boulevard Hébert, 35400 – Saint-Malo – France
W: Le Grand Hotel des Thermes
W: Thalasso Saint Malo

Written by Luxuria Lifestyle’s Group Editor Debbie Stone