Origins: The town is named after Saint Lunarius, a 6th-century Welsh monk who is said to have evangelized the region.
Medieval Period: It developed as a small fishing and farming village during the Middle Ages.
19th Century Boom: Saint-Lunaire flourished as a fashionable seaside resort during the Belle Époque (late 19th to early 20th century), drawing aristocrats and wealthy Parisians who built elegant villas along the coast.
20th Century Onward: It remained a popular summer destination and retains a nostalgic, family-friendly ambiance with a touch of vintage charm.
Description
Saint-Lunaire is known for:
Scenic Coastline: Long sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sheltered coves.
Historic Villas: Grand 19th-century houses, many still in use as private homes or seasonal rentals.
Traditional Village Center: Quaint streets, stone houses, a central square, and a Romanesque church.
Mild Maritime Climate: Pleasant summers, cool breezes, and a mix of sun and Atlantic mist.
Typical Food
Saint-Lunaire shares much of its cuisine with Breton coastal traditions:
Galettes de Sarrasin (buckwheat crêpes): Usually filled with cheese, eggs, ham, mushrooms, or sausage.
Crêpes Sucrées: Sweet crêpes with fillings like salted caramel (caramel au beurre salé), jam, or Nutella.
Fruits de Mer: Fresh seafood platters—oysters, mussels, crab, and shrimp.
Cider (Cidre Breton): Often served with crêpes, this is a slightly sweet or dry sparkling apple cider.
Kouign-Amann: A buttery, caramelized pastry that’s a regional delicacy.
Far Breton: A custardy cake with prunes or raisins.
Activities
Visitors and locals enjoy a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities:
1. Beach Life
Grande Plage and Plage de Longchamp: Sunbathing, swimming, and beach games.
Tidepooling: Exploring marine life at low tide.
2. Water Sports
Surfing, sailing, paddleboarding, and sea kayaking.
3. Hiking & Walking
The GR34 coastal trail offers stunning views along cliffs and bays.
Walk to nearby Pointe du Décollé for panoramic vistas.
4. Golf
The Golf de Dinard, one of the oldest in France, lies just nearby in Saint-Briac-sur-Mer.
5. Market Days
Local markets offer fresh produce, cheese, seafood, and artisanal products.
6. Cultural Visits
Tour of Belle Époque villas.
Visits to nearby towns like Dinard, Saint-Malo, and Cancale.
7. Festivals
Local music events, beach festivals, and food fairs during the summer.