France

Proud of its history and maritime tradition, France has an incomparably rich coastal heritage. From the North Sea to the Mediterranean, via the English Channel and the Atlantic, France's coasts offer remarkable diversity, both geographically and culturally.

At the heart of this heritage are the majestic lighthouses that line the shores, witness to the voyages of sailors for centuries and vigilant guardians of the coastline. From the mythical Cordouan lighthouse, the ‘king of lighthouses’ and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the picturesque lighthouses of Batz Island or Aber Wrach, each sentinel tells a unique and fascinating story.

France's maritime heritage is an inexhaustible source of inspiration and wonder, inviting visitors to discover its spectacular landscapes, captivating history and vibrant culture. Sea lovers who come for a coastal escapade will discover different and singular landscapes, jagged or sandy coasts protected by towers of pink, white or sparkling mica stone. And afterwards, what a reward to rediscover these same landscapes seen from the top of the lighthouse a few dozen meters up. France maritime promises unforgettable experiences. 

France's lighthouses, majestic guardians of the coastline, embody the country's maritime beauty, strength and history. From north to south, from the Belgian border to Corsica, as well as Reunion Island and New Caledonia, our 124 emblematic buildings line the French coastline, guiding sailors through storms and the dangers of the sea. 55 of them can be visited. 

Each lighthouse tells a fascinating story, bearing witness to the challenges faced by mankind in securing the sea lanes and protecting ships from pitfalls. From the lighthouse on Ile Vierge, towering over Europe from the top of its 82 m, to the island of Ouessant and its Creac'h lighthouse, whose beam of light projects 75 kms, each building is an architectural feat and a work of art in its own right. You can also visit the national lighthouse museum on Ouessant.

As well as their utilitarian function, French lighthouses are also symbols of national pride and emblematic landmarks in coastal landscapes. They have inspired many artists, impressionist painters and photographers over the last two centuries, capturing their beauty and mystery in immortal works of art.

Today, every lighthouse in France continues to carry out its mission of watchfulness and safety, equipped like all the lighthouses in the world with its magnificent glass lens, invented by Augustin Fresnel 200 years ago. Increasingly, they are also popular tourist destinations, offering spectacular 360° panoramic views of the sea and surrounding coastline.

The ‘Phares de France’ association invites you to admire a sunset from the top of a lighthouse, take advantage of the museum or a guided tour to discover its fascinating history, or simply leave with the memory of a family photo in front of its imposing silhouette. A link to the ‘European Route of Lighthouses’ website will give you an extra visa on your virtual passport as a tourist criss-crossing Europe's lighthouses.