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Dinard

Dinard is in north-eastern Brittany, across the Rance Estuary from St Malo.

Dinard is a slightly unexpected town to come across in Brittany. It's history as a fishing village was first pushed aside at the end of the 19th century, when the rich and fashionable of the time built their luxury houses here. It holds itself forward - with some justification - as the heart of the Emerald Coast - the attractive name given to this section of the Brittany coastline.

This version of Dinard, although still much in evidence, has also been usurped by 'modern Dinard' with a casino, modern seaside villas, and an attempt to be sophisticated. It is glamorous in an unglamorous way, if that makes sense, and is sometimes referred to as France's Brighton. It is very popular as a retirement town.

Now I've put you off the idea of visiting, let me tell you why you should. Dinard has managed its transition to popular resort very well, and still conveys an atmosphere of charm as well as attracting the rich and beautiful.

The 19th century houses along the sea-front are very attractive, and there are nice views out to sea. Dinard is affected by the warm gulf stream so has an unexpectedly mild climate.

There are three pleasant beaches in the town, which are also the starting point for nice walks along the coastline, and there are several other nice sandy beaches nearby.

If you only have time to head one way out of town along the coast, head east for the views at the end of the headland called Moulinet Point (the eastern end of the plage de l'ecluse).

Last but certainly not least, you can see the house that Hitchcock used as model for the house in Psycho, on a cliff above the Plage d'Ecluse.

See also Dinan, a little inland.

Dinard hotels, map and gites

Dinard, Brittany
Dinard, Brittany

photo kindly submittted by Brittany cottages
PLAN A VISIT TO DINARD, FRANCE

Hotels Dinard

Holiday rentals / travel

Property for sale Dinard

PLACES TO VISIT NEAR DINARD

Map of Dinard, France
Places to visit - Dinard

Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Dinard.

Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Dinard are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)

 

Tourist Classifications for Dinard

- Listed as "Ville d'Art et Histoire" (ie focus on preserving the town heritage)
- Town is "Ville Fleurie category 4" (ie good attention to gardens and flowers)

 

Information and photos

This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Dinard when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.

 


See schedule of airlines and flights to Dinard

 

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