Holiday rentals in Dinard

Three iconic places to discover in Dinard

Dinard stands out as one of Brittany’s most beautiful seaside resorts, and its landscapes, shaped by the sea, bear witness to this. Three sites in particular embody the charm and history of this coastal destination: a legendary promenade, a landmark heritage site, and the beach, which remains the beating heart of the resort. Each reveals a different facet of Dinard, from the Belle Époque to the contemporary coastline.

1. Promenade du Clair de Lune

This coastal promenade stretches for around 1.5 kilometres along the Baie de l’Écluse, offering breathtaking views of the ramparts of Saint-Malo and the coastline. The flower-filled gardens lining the promenade burst with colour throughout the seasons, whilst the Belle Époque villas stand just a few metres away, bearing witness to the luxury of Dinard’s holiday resorts in centuries past. A stroll along this path is an unmissable experience, particularly in the late afternoon when the light bathes the façades and the ocean in a golden glow.

2. Villa les Roches Brunes

Listed as a historic monument, this eclectic-style villa from the early 20th century remains an architectural marvel. Built directly on the rocks facing the sea, it epitomised the prestige of the aristocracy and the upper middle classes who made Dinard famous. Its elegance and spectacular setting make it an iconic landmark of Dinard’s heritage, a reminder of the era when the resort was a haven for the most refined holidaymakers.

3. Plage de l’Écluse

The beating heart of Dinard, this main beach comes to life in spring and reaches its peak vibrancy in summer. Striped bathing huts, typical of French seaside charm, dot the sand, whilst the casino stands proudly nearby, evoking the festive atmosphere of the Belle Époque. From its shore, the view extends directly towards the majestic fortifications of Saint-Malo, creating an unrivalled natural backdrop for bathers and those seeking to laze about.

These three places embody the very essence of a stay in Dinard: seaside relaxation, architectural history and the maritime panoramas that make this stretch of the Breton coast so magical.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday let in Dinard

Each season transforms the character of Dinard and offers a different reason to stay in this Breton seaside resort. The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for: lively beaches or tranquillity, swimming or coastal walks.

In spring, the pink sandstone cliffs regain their vibrant colours as the vegetation turns green again. The days grow longer and temperatures rise gradually, without becoming too hot. The beaches empty of their winter visitors, and the seafront restaurants open their terraces. A holiday rental in spring allows you to enjoy Dinard without the summer crowds, ideal for couples seeking peace and quiet or families wishing to explore the coast at a leisurely pace.

Summer is when the tourist buzz is at its peak: packed beaches, warmer water for swimming, entertainment in the town centre, and terraces teeming with life. Children splash about in the small, sheltered coves amongst the rocks. Holiday accommodation fills up quickly, but offers an ideal base for a family week where the children set the pace. The bright days stretch into the evening, inviting late-afternoon strolls along the coastal paths.

Autumn brings back crystal-clear days and an ocean still warm from the summer heat. The crowds thin out, the colours of the sky change, and the light takes on a golden hue. It’s an excellent time to rent: prices drop slightly, the atmosphere becomes more peaceful, and walkers enjoy a less crowded coast. The surf also gets stronger, attracting surfers and water sports enthusiasts.

Winters are mild on the Channel coast, rarely freezing. Atlantic storms bring impressive waves, the cliffs rise against dramatic skies, and the beaches welcome solitary walkers. Hiring a holiday let in winter means enjoying Dinard in privacy, with the sea as your only companion, and restaurants that are less crowded.

Whatever season you choose, a holiday let remains the most flexible option, allowing you to adapt to your whims of the moment and set the pace for your stay in Brittany.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Dinard

A holiday in Dinard revolves around its coastal and cultural treasures. Whether on the water, along the coast or in the cinemas, this Breton seaside resort offers a variety of experiences to add a pleasant rhythm to your holiday days. Here are three unmissable activities to help you make the most of the area.

1. Go sailing and try water sports from Écluse Beach

Écluse Beach is the ideal starting point for sailing and water sports enthusiasts. The site benefits from excellent natural conditions and is easily accessible for all levels, from children taking their first steps to experienced sailors. Depending on your preferences and skill level, you can hire equipment, take lessons or set off on a trip out on the water. The friendly atmosphere of this beach makes it a place where families and groups of friends regularly get together.

Address: Plage de l’Écluse, 35800 Dinard.

2. Attend the Dinard British Film Festival

The British Film Festival, a much-anticipated annual event, transforms Dinard into the capital of British cinema. For several days, film buffs and curious visitors flock to screenings, meetings with directors and accompanying events that bring the town to life. It’s the perfect opportunity to catch film premieres, combine culture with relaxation, and soak up a unique festive atmosphere. Check the dates of your stay: if the festival coincides with your holiday, it’s an opportunity not to be missed.

Address: 35800 Dinard.

3. Hike along the GR 34 coastal path between Dinard and Saint-Malo

The GR 34 is one of the most beautiful coastal walking routes in France. From Dinard, you can follow sections of this trail that wind along the cliffs and coves, offering spectacular views of the English Channel at every turn. The walk between Dinard and Saint-Malo combines exercise, nature and exploration: granite rocks, hidden beaches and small fishing ports dot the route. You can tailor the distance to your fitness level, from gentle strolls to more challenging stretches.

Address: Pointe de la Vicomté, 35800 Dinard.

Our guests’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday let in Dinard

When choosing a holiday let in Dinard, the comfort of the accommodation is just as important as its location. Travellers staying by the sea look for facilities that make everyday life easier and help them relax. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or as a couple, direct access to the beach, secure parking and modern interior fittings are among your top priorities.

• Beach access or sea view: in Dinard, the narrow streets and high concentration of visitors make direct access to the beach or a terrace with a view of the sea a real asset.
• Private or reserved parking: parking in the heart of a seaside resort is scarce and expensive; a parking space included in the rental saves you both time and money.
• Air conditioning or effective ventilation: during the summer heatwaves in Brittany, a cooling system helps to maintain a comfortable indoor environment, especially for children and those who are sensitive to the heat.
• Washing machine and tumble dryer: when travelling with children or on long stays, these appliances save you repeated trips to the launderette and reduce the amount of luggage you need to bring.
• Fully equipped kitchen: a hob, oven, dishwasher and kitchen utensils allow you to prepare simple meals and keep food costs under control.
• Wi-Fi and workspace: working remotely from a holiday let has become commonplace; a good internet connection and a dedicated office area facilitate this flexibility.
• Efficient heating: as the later seasons in Brittany are cool and damp, reliable heating is essential, even in late summer.
• Private terrace or balcony: this is a natural extension of the accommodation, ideal for al fresco dining and relaxing at the end of the day.
• High-quality bedding: a comfortable mattress and fresh sheets are key to a good night’s sleep after an active day at the beach.
• Television and entertainment: on rainy days or in the evenings, a smart TV and a few board games can make the most of family time.

Finding a holiday rental in Dinard that meets these criteria depends on your circumstances: budget, number of guests, length of stay and your specific requirements. Well-planned accommodation greatly increases the chances of a memorable holiday.

What is the average price of a holiday let in Dinard?

Prices for holiday lets in Dinard vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. A small studio or one-bedroom flat usually costs between 400 and 700 euros per night in high season. For a family-sized property with three to four rooms, you can generally expect to pay between 800 and 1,400 euros per night. Larger flats or houses with sea views and high-end facilities often cost more than 1,500 euros per night.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Proximity to the seafront and beaches results in significantly higher prices. Accommodation set back from the town centre remains more affordable. The length of stay also plays a part: weekly rates with a sliding scale offer significant savings compared to individual nights. Off-peak periods (autumn, winter and early spring) offer rates reduced by 30 to 50 per cent compared with the summer.

As Dinard is a popular coastal destination, prices rise significantly during the summer school holidays and peak seasons. To keep your budget under control, it’s a good idea to book several weeks in advance and aim for the shoulder seasons (May–June or September). Read the descriptions and reviews from previous travellers carefully to ensure that the facilities match the advertised price.