Le Phare Des Baleines Destination Ile De Re Jules Serrurier
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A powerful symbol of the island, the Phare des Baleines marks the entrance to the Breton and Antiochechannels. Visible from more than 50 kilometres offshore, 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 the Ile de Ré, the Atlantic Ocean and the Vendée coastline.
Climbing to the top of the Phare des Baleines is a unique sensory experience. The 257 steps of its spiral staircase lead to a platform offering a 360° view of :
An unforgettable experience, accessible to curious visitors and families with children who are used to walking.
Built from 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 :
Listed as a Historic Monument, the site bears witness to the deep-rooted link between the island of Ré and maritime navigation.
Phare Des Baleines Escalier Saint Clement Ile De Re Alizee Russeil
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2023 1111 Saint Clement Des Baleines Pharedesbaleinesalizee Russeil Didr 4
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Before the ascent, a visit to the Musée de la Vieille Tour will give you 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.
An educational exhibition, combining objects, explanatory panels and multimedia content, designed for children and adults alike.
The lighthouse owes its name to the many whales that used to come ashore at Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, until the beginning of the XXᵉ century.
Every summer, the site hosts the Jazz au Phare festival, a unique musical event where concerts and heritage meet in an exceptional setting at the foot of the lighthouse.
In September, the Phare des Baleines becomes the centre of cultural and family events: special tours, treasure hunts, unusual discoveries… Another way to (re)discover this emblematic monument.
The site is busiest between 2pm and 4pm, especially in summer. For a quieter visit and less waiting, we recommend arriving before 12pm (ideally around 10.30am-11am) or after 5pm.
Yes, the experience is suitable for families, provided children can climb the steps.
The Phare des Baleines has been awarded the Famille Plus label. The museum offers an educational approach, and the visit can be adapted to suit the age of the children (with or without a climb).
Unfortunately not. Even on an extremely clear day, it’s not possible to see Fort Boyard from the Phare des Baleines.
You can see it from Sainte-Marie-de-Ré or Rivedoux-Plage, on a very clear day, but it will remain very small!
Yes, the Phare des Baleines is the most visited site on the Ile de Ré, with a particularly high number of visitors in July and August. This popularity can mean long waits for the climb, especially in the middle of the day.
Booking is generally not compulsory, but in busy periods (school holidays, summer) it is advisable to come early in the day to avoid waiting.
Yes for the park and museum of the Vieille Tour, accessible to people with reduced mobility and pushchairs.
No for the ascent to the lighthouse, which has 257 steps and no lift.
Yes, you can enjoy the landscaped grounds, the museum, the Old Tower and the natural environment without climbing the steps, an option that is popular with families and visitors looking for a gentler way to spend their visit.
A pay car park is located close to the site.
Cycle racks are also available at the entrance to the site, encouraging soft mobility.
1h to 1h30 for the museum, the park and the ascent, more if you take the time to walk around the site or attend a seasonal event.
Yes, the site is open all year round, with opening times varying according to the season. Opening times are extended in the summer.
Yes, a visit to the lighthouse can easily be complemented by :
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