08/11/2016
Discovering Dinard: Your Comprehensive Travel Guide
Nestled in the picturesque Ille-et-Vilaine department of Brittany, Dinard stands as a testament to its 19th-century origins as a fashionable resort. Still captivating visitors with its elegance and coastal charm, Dinard offers a delightful escape. Whether you're drawn to its stunning promontories, neo-gothic villas, or the vibrant local markets, understanding how to reach this gem is the first step to an unforgettable trip. This guide provides a detailed overview of the various transportation methods to get you to Dinard, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Dinard, a designated "town of art and history" and a 4-star "ville fleurie" (flowered town), is remarkably well-connected, making it accessible from various points. The most convenient ways to reach Dinard involve either a direct journey or a combination of transport links, often via the nearby historic port town of Saint-Malo.
By Train: The Scenic Route to Saint-Malo
The primary gateway by rail to Dinard is the Saint-Malo train station, located approximately 10 kilometres away. From the French capital, Paris, you can catch a direct TGV (high-speed train) service, which will whisk you to Saint-Malo in a mere 2 hours and 15 minutes. For those travelling from Rennes, the regional TER (Train Express Régional) line offers a frequent service, with journey times ranging from 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Once you arrive at Saint-Malo station, a range of onward travel options are available:
- Bus Connections: The BreizhGo bus network provides excellent links from Saint-Malo to Dinard. Notably, Line 516 (formerly Line 16) runs regularly towards Dinard, La Richardais, Saint-Lunaire, and Saint-Briac-sur-Mer. Additionally, Line 14 connects Saint-Malo to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo, passing through Lancieux, which is also a viable option depending on your final destination within the broader Dinard area. For those coming from Rennes, BreizhGo Line 507 (formerly Line 16) offers a direct service to Dinard via Dinan. Consult the BreizhGo website for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
- Taxi Services: A taxi or private car service from Saint-Malo station to Dinard is readily available for a more direct and comfortable transfer. This is an ideal option if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a door-to-door service.
By Bus: Direct and Connecting Services
Coach travel offers another economical way to reach the Dinard region. From Paris, companies like Flixbus and Ouibus operate services to Saint-Malo. From Saint-Malo, the aforementioned BreizhGo buses are your primary connection to Dinard and its surrounding coastal resorts.
For those travelling from Rennes, BreizhGo Line 7 provides a direct bus connection. It's always advisable to check the BreizhGo website for the latest timetables and route information, as services can vary seasonally.
By Car: The Freedom of the Open Road
Driving to Dinard offers the flexibility to explore the stunning Emerald Coast at your own pace. If you're coming from Paris, the journey primarily involves taking the A11 motorway, also known as "L'Océane," towards Rennes. The drive from Paris to Rennes typically takes around 3 hours. From Rennes, you'll transition to the dual-carriageway RN137, which provides a swift 45-minute drive to the Dinard area.
Travellers from Normandy, Northern France, or Belgium can utilise the Estuaries Motorway (A84) towards Caen, then follow signs for Saint-Malo and Dinard via the well-maintained 4-lane roads.
Car Rental: For visitors flying into a major airport or arriving without their own vehicle, car rental agencies are conveniently located in Saint-Malo, often near the train station. Companies such as Sixt and Avis offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs, allowing you to easily pick up a car upon arrival.
Summer Shuttle Service: A Convenient City Link
During the peak summer months, typically from July 10th to August 24th, Dinard operates a free summer shuttle service. This shuttle connects the park-and-ride lots at Parking de l’Hermitage and Parking de la Ville-Billy in La Richardais with the heart of Dinard. Running daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., it provides a 15-minute journey to the town centre, with stops at Notre-Dame Church and the Tourist Office. Departures are every 30 minutes, with the last bus leaving the Tourist Office stop at 11:15 p.m. This service is accessible to everyone, including those with reduced mobility, though bicycles are not permitted.
By Plane: Proximity to Dinard/Pleurtuit Airport
Dinard boasts its own airport, Dinard/Pleurtuit Airport (DNR), situated just about 5 kilometres from the centre of Dinard. While the airport primarily caters to private aviation, it's worth checking if any commercial charter services might be available. For detailed information, visiting the airport's official website is recommended.
By Boat: Ferry Connections via Saint-Malo
For those travelling from the UK or the Channel Islands, the port of Saint-Malo is the closest major ferry terminal to Dinard, located approximately 10 kilometres away. Year-round ferry services are operated by Condor Ferries and Brittany Ferries, connecting to destinations such as Portsmouth in England and the Channel Islands. From the Port of Saint-Malo, you can easily arrange a taxi or catch a bus to reach Dinard.
Exploring the Vicinity: Places Near Dinard
Dinard serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Ille-et-Vilaine department and the stunning Emerald Coast. Many attractions are within easy reach:
| Attraction | Distance (approx.) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pointe de la Malouine | 1 km | A promontory with 19th-century villas and a scenic coastal path. |
| Pointe du Moulinet | N/A (within Dinard) | Known for its imposing neo-gothic villas and breathtaking views. |
| Emerald Coast | 4 km | A renowned stretch of coastline famed for its dramatic scenery. |
| Saint-Malo | 10 km | Historic walled port city with ramparts and corsair history. |
| Jardins de Montmarin | 6 km | Beautiful gardens offering a variety of horticultural displays. |
Markets and Local Life
Experiencing the local markets is a must when visiting Dinard. Dinard itself hosts a vibrant weekly market on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Nearby towns also offer market days, adding to the local flavour:
- Dinard: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday
- Saint-Malo: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
- Saint-Lunaire: Sunday (seasonal)
- Cancale: Sunday
- Dinan: Thursday
Frequently Asked Questions about Getting to Dinard
Q1: What is the best way to get to Dinard from the UK?
The most popular method is to take a ferry to the nearby port of Saint-Malo and then complete the journey by bus or taxi. Alternatively, flying into Dinard/Pleurtuit Airport or a larger regional airport and then arranging onward travel is also an option.
Q2: Is there a direct train to Dinard?
No, there is no direct train station in Dinard. The nearest station is in Saint-Malo, from where you can take a bus or taxi.
Q3: How far is Dinard from Rennes?
Dinard is approximately 64 kilometres from Rennes by road.
Q4: Is the summer shuttle in Dinard free?
Yes, the summer shuttle service, running from mid-July to late August, is completely free of charge and accessible to all.
Q5: Can I take my bicycle on the shuttle?
No, bicycles are not permitted on the Dinard free summer shuttle.
By understanding these travel options, your journey to the enchanting town of Dinard is sure to be a pleasant one, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Brittany.
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