What is the best time to visit the Phare des Baleines lighthouse?

The site is busiest between 2pm and 4pm , especially in the summer. For a quieter visit and less queuing, we recommend arriving before 12pm (ideally around 10.30am-11am) or after 5pm.

Can children visit the lighthouse?

Yes, the experience is suitable for families, provided children are able to climb the steps. The Phare des Baleines lighthouse has been awarded the ‘Famille Plus’ quality label . The museum offers an educational approach, and the visit can be adapted to suit the age of children (by choosing whether or not to go to the top).

Can you see Fort Boyard from the lighthouse?

Unfortunately not. Even on an extremely clear day, it is not possible to see Fort Boyard from the Phare des Baleines lighthouse. You can see it from Sainte-Marie-de-Ré or Rivedoux-Plage, on a very clear day, but it will remain very small!

How busy is the Phare des Baleines lighthouse in the summer?

The Phare des Baleines lighthouse is the most visited site on Île de Ré , with a particularly high number of visitors in July and August . This can mean long queues to go to the top, especially in the middle of the day.

Do I need to book to go to the top of the lighthouse?

Booking is generally not compulsory , but in busy periods (school holidays, and particularly in the summer) it is advisable to arrive early in the morning to avoid queuing.

Is the Phare des Baleines lighthouse accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Partly. The landscaped park and Musée de la Vieille Tour are accessible to people with reduced mobility and pushchairs. However, the top of the lighthouse is not accessible . There are 257 steps and no lift.

Can you visit the site without climbing to the top of the lighthouse?

Yes, you can enjoy the landscaped grounds, the museum and old tower , and the natural environment without going up all the steps . This option is popular with families and visitors looking for a less energetic way to visit.

Where can I park to visit the Phare des Baleines lighthouse?

A pay-and-display car park is located close to the site. Bicycle parking racks are located at the entrance to the site, encouraging greener forms of transport.

How long will the tour take?

Around 1 hour or 1 hour 30 minute s for the museum, the park and to go to the top of the lighthouse. It will take longer if you also walk around the site or attend an event.

Is the Phare des Baleines lighthouse open all year?

Yes, the site is open all year round, with opening times varying according to the season. Opening times are extended in the summer.

Can the visit be combined with other activities nearby?

Yes, a visit to the lighthouse can easily be combined with: a cycle ride or a walk the Conche des Baleines beach nature outings or guided tours around the Pointe des Baleines.

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Le Phare Des Baleines Destination Ile De Re Jules Serrurier
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Jules Serrurier

Phare des Baleines lighthouse

Majestic and luminous, the Phare des Baleines lighthouse has watched over the western tip of the Île de Ré for over 170 years. Reaching a height of 57 metres, it offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the island, surrounded by endless ocean, wild coastline and views of the villages of Île de Ré.

Visiting the lighthouse is a must. Go with family, friends, as a couple, during the tourist season and out of season, to experience the full force of the island’s maritime heritage.

An iconic monument at the tip of Ile de Ré

A powerful symbol of the island, the Phare des Baleines lighthouse marks the entrance to the straits of Pertuis Breton and Pertuis Antioche. Visible from more than 50 km at sea, it is one of the most powerful lighthouses in France.

Every year, almost 160,000 visitors climb its steps to discover a spectacular view of the north of Île de Ré, the Atlantic Ocean and the Vendée coastline.

An unforgettable climb, surrounded by sky and ocean

257 steps to a breathtaking panoramic view

Climbing to the top of the Phare des Baleines lighthouse is a unique sensory experience. The 257 steps of its spiral staircase lead to a platform offering a 360° view of:

the wild beaches of the Pointe des Baleines
the marshes and villages of Île de Ré
the ocean as far as the eye can see
and sometimes even the outline of the continent in the distance.

This unforgettable experience is suitable for families, provided children are able to climb the steps.

A heritage site steeped in history

Building began in 1849 to reinforce the action of the old tower built according to Vauban’s plans. The lighthouse was inaugurated in 1854. Today, it forms a remarkable ensemble with:

the Vieille Tour, the old tower
the Phare des Baleineaux lighthouse, located off the coast
and the vast landscaped grounds.

Listed as a Historic Monument, the site bears witness to the deeply-rooted link between Île de Ré and maritime navigation.

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Phare Des Baleines Escalier Saint Clement Ile De Re Alizee Russeil
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Alizée Russeil

Understanding lighthouses before you go to the top

Musée de la Vieille Tour

Before going to the top of the lighthouse, visit the Musée de la Vieille Tour for a better understanding of the fascinating world of lighthouses:

The history and role of lighthouses, construction techniques, the lives of lighthouse keepers, and lighting systems past and present.

This educational exhibition combines objects, information panels and multimedia content, designed for children and adults.

Did you know?

The lighthouse owes its name to the many whales that used to be washed ashore in Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, until the beginning of the 20th century.

Tips for visiting

Favour greener forms of transport: the site is easily accessible by bike or on foot along the cycle paths. Car parking is available nearby, but can be very busy in high season.
Anticipate the high numbers of visitors in summer: in July and August, the Phare des Baleines lighthouse is one of the most visited sites on the island. For greater peace and quiet, it is best to visit early in the morning, at the end of the day or out of season.
Site accessibility: the landscaped park, surrounding area and the Musée de la Vieille Tour are accessible to people with reduced mobility and pushchairs. However, the top of the lighthouse (257 steps) is not accessible to people with reduced mobility, as there is no lift.
Enjoy the natural setting: the vast landscaped park allows you to enjoy the natural setting, even without climbing to the top.
As a family: start your visit in the museum as the ideal way to prepare for going to the top. Learn about the history of the site and adapt your visit to the pace of your children.

See visitor numbers in real time on Google Maps

A living place, in tune with the seasons

Jazz au Phare festival

Every summer, the site hosts the Jazz au Phare festival, a unique music event where concerts and heritage meet in an exceptional setting at the foot of the lighthouse.

European Heritage Days

In September, the Phare des Baleines lighthouse is a focal point for cultural and family events on the island: special guided tours, treasure hunts, unusual visits… Make the most of the Heritage Days to (Ré)discover this iconic monument!

FAQ: Phare des Baleines lighthouse