Dinard Casino

Dinard is a seaside resort on the Emerald Coast of Brittany, facing the walled town of Saint-Malo across the mouth of the Rance estuary. It grew in the nineteenth century when British families discovered its mild climate and sheltered beaches, and a large English colony settled here, building hundreds of grand villas along the cliffs and promenades. The town became one of the most fashionable resorts of the Belle Époque, drawing aristocrats, artists and writers, and the casino on the beachfront is one of the symbols of that period.

The casino was established in the 1860s on the seafront, at the centre of the resort's social life. It was first known by a different name, the High Life Casino, before it became part of the complex known as the Palais d'Émeraude. It stands directly above the beach, with large windows that look out over the English Channel and the bay, so the view is part of its appeal. Gamblers play slot machines and table games such as English roulette and blackjack, and there are a bar and restaurant on the premises, as well as rooms used for events and shows. Entry is restricted to adults and visitors must show identification, and the casino is open every day, with later closing times in July and August.

In the daytime, the seafront is a place to stroll, and you can combine the casino with a walk on the Promenade du Clair de Lune, a scented path along the shore, lined with villas, which leads toward the Pointe du Moulinet. The Plage de l'Écluse, the town's main beach, lies beside it, and the swimming pool by the sea, with its seawater, is a local tradition. The Plage du Pâquis, the Quai des Indes and the Place du Maréchal Foch are other points in the town centre.

Dinard is also known for its British Film Festival, held each autumn since 1990, which draws filmmakers and actors from across the Channel and uses the town's theatre and cinemas. Boats cross the estuary to Saint-Malo in a few minutes, and the Île de Cézembre, a wild island off the coast, can be reached by boat in summer.

The casino suits visitors who enjoy gaming and an evening out, and those who want to see a piece of the Belle Époque resort. Even if you do not gamble, the building and the seafront setting are worth a look. Check dress and entry rules, and the opening times, before you go.