The Lighthouse of Whales is one of the must-visit landmarks on the Île de Ré. Listed as a historic monument, it rises to 57 meters, offering visitors a stunning panoramic view.
Where is the Lighthouse of Whales located?
The tower is situated in the commune of Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, on the northwestern tip of the Île de Ré. It is close to a cycling path, approximately 23 km from our hotel in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, one of the island’s main towns. After passing the turnoff towards Loix, all signs lead to the lighthouse. It is also accessible by public transportation, located 300 meters from the lighthouse. The nearest SNCF train station is 50 km away.
Climb to the Top of the Phare des Baleines
Visitors never miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the tower and enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding landscapes, starting with the beach located just 10 meters from the tower. The challenge of climbing no fewer than 257 steps doesn’t deter them—quite the opposite. The lighthouse majestically crowns a two-hectare estate, which also hosts the Baleines Museum. This offers visitors a chance to learn more about the history of lighthouses and various construction techniques. Multimedia sequences, panels, and other educational tools are used to provide an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Visit the Phare des Baleines on the Île de Ré
Visitors will encounter two majestic sentinels. The first, the Old Tower, was built by Vauban on the orders of Colbert, then the principal minister of Louis XIV. It was in operation from 1682 to 1854 and is now classified as a historical monument. Later, a decision was made to reinforce this first tower, leading to the construction of the current Grand Lighthouse in 1849. This second sentinel, aligned with the Baleineux lighthouse on the northwestern tip of the Île de Ré, was inaugurated in 1854. Towering 57 meters above sea level, it is one of the tallest towers in France and one of the most powerful lighthouses along the Atlantic coast. From its summit, visitors can admire breathtaking views stretching up to 50 km. At the foot of the old tower lies a museum space where one can learn more about lighthouses, their history, and the methods used in their construction. The Baleines Museum also includes a maritime bookstore, a marine-themed gift shop offering souvenirs, scale models, posters, and more.
Opening Hours
- The lighthouse and museum welcome visitors every day of the week.
- From January to March and October to December, they are open from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
- From April 1 to the end of June, they are open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- From late June to early September, visitors can explore them between 9:30 AM and 9:00 PM.
Admission Prices for the Grand Lighthouse Visit
- Adult: €4.35
- Child: €2.85
- Adult group: €3.80 per person
- Child group: €2.35 per person
Admission Prices for the Old Tower Museum Visit
- Adult: €10.60
- Child (7 to 12 years old): €5.50
- Family pass (two adults with children): €27.35
Admission Prices for the Combined Visit of the Museum, Old Tower, and Grand Lighthouse
- Adult: €12.95
- Child (7 to 12 years old): €7.65
- Family pass (two adults with children): €38.15
- Adult group: €10.80 per person
- Child group: €6.55 per person
- Children under 7 years old enter for free.