Cordouan Lighthouse, Le Verdon-sur-Mer, France

Cordouan lighthouse is located 7 kilometres at sea, near the mouth of the Gironde estuary in France. At a height of 67.5 metres, it is the tenth-tallest 'traditional lighthouse' in the world.

The Tour de Cordouan, the 'Patriarch of Lighthouses', is by far the oldest lighthouse in France. It was designed by leading Paris architect Louis de Foix, and is something of a Renaissance masterpiece, an amalgam of royal palace, cathedral and fort. Started in 1584 and finished in 1611, it still stands today. Three stories were added in the 18th century.

It was listed as a historic monument in 1862, and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2021.

References:

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User Reviews

annie roux (3 years ago)
Beautiful restoration, unexpected architecture, nice sailing and special thanks to the office lady who called me to make sure I would make it on time and waited for me with the ticket to make sure I could board even though I was a few minutes late. Very much appreciated! All in all I am super happy I could make it!

Liz Senser (4 years ago)
From start to finish an amazing experience! We booked with Phare de Siren. A well orchestrated crew from Captain on down. Highly recommend.

EDITH FIESTAS (5 years ago)
Cool!

Fred H. (6 years ago)
Amazing moment! You take a boat trip to the sea then a boat-truck ride to the lighthouse. The boat floats then rides the bottom of the ocean. Depending of the tides, you may have to walk 10 minutes on the sand/bottom of the ocean at some point to reach the boat-truck, that was a unique experience! The lighthouse is beautiful, the last one inhabited in the world. The wardens are also giides, friendly and funny. A MUST DO!

Alex W (6 years ago)
Absolutely stunning! The most amazing lighthouse I've ever seen. Right out in the ocean and takes a while to get there by boat. The interior is beautiful and includes a chapel and king's room complete with fireplaces. The view from the top - the ocean in all directions is stunning. Not to be missed!

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