Cap Ferret lighthouse - A luminous guardian of the Bay of Arcachon

Standing proudly at the end of the Cap Ferre peninsulat, the Cap Ferret lighthouse is an iconic landmark on the Arcachon Basin.. Its majestic silhouette, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, has guided navigators for over 180 years, testifying to a rich history and a crucial role in the region's maritime safety.

A History of Light

The history of the Cap Ferret lighthouse began in 1823.when the Ponts et Chaussées administration decided to build it in response to the increase in maritime traffic. in the Arcachon Basin. The first version of the lighthouse, completed in 1840, was a 50-metre-high ashlar tower with an oil-steam fire.

Over the decades, the Cap Ferret lighthouse has undergone several transformations.. In 1860, its height was raised by 6 metres to increase its range. In 1904, its light changed to a red flash every 5 seconds, improving night-time visibility.

In 1929, the lighthouse was electrified and fitted with a first-rate Fresnel lens, considerably increasing its luminous range. Unfortunately, during the Second World War, the Cap Ferret lighthouse was dynamited by retreating German troops in 1944.

Rebuilt to its original specifications between 1946 and 1947, the lighthouse continues to play an essential role in maritime safety in the Bay of Arcachon. Its powerful light, with a range of 26 kilometers, guides ships and warns of potential dangers along the coast.

Detailed description of the lighthouse

Reaching a height of 57 metres, the Cap Ferret lighthouse features a white and grey reinforced concrete tower topped by a red lantern.. The lantern houses a rotating optical system and a 1000-watt incandescent lamp, enabling the beacon to emit a light signal visible from 26 kilometers away.

Access to the top of the lighthouse is via a 257-step staircase. From the top of the lantern, you can enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the Bay of Arcachon and the Atlantic Ocean, Dune du Pilat and the Cap Ferret peninsula.

Practical information for visiting the lighthouse

• Address: Avenue de la Plage, 33680 Le Cap-Ferret
• Opening hours: The lighthouse is open to the public from April 1 to September 30, from 10:30 to 12:30 and from 14:30 to 18:30.
• Price list: Full price: €8, Reduced price: €6 (children aged 6 to 12, students, disabled people).
• Access: Le Phare du Cap Ferret can be reached on foot, by bike or by shuttle bus from downtown Arcachon. Pay parking is available nearby.
• Advice: Climbing the steps can be tiring, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Don't forget your camera to capture the spectacular views from the top of the lighthouse.

Restaurants near the Lighthouse

After exploring the Lighthouse, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many nearby restaurants. Here are a few suggestions:

• Chez Hortense: This restaurant offers traditional French cuisine with a breathtaking view of the Bay of Arcachon.
• Le Cabana Café: This restaurant offers pizzas and Italian dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
• La Cabane du Pêcheur: This restaurant offers fresh seafood and other local dishes in a rustic setting.
• The Glacier du Bassin: This ice cream parlour offers a wide choice of homemade ice creams and sorbets.
• Crêperie La Biscotte: This crêperie serves sweet and savoury crêpes in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

What else can you do around the Cap Ferret lighthouse?

As well as visiting the lighthouse, there are many other activities to enjoy in the surrounding area:

• Enjoy the beaches: The Cap Ferret peninsula is renowned for its long sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
• Exploring nature : Numerous hiking and cycling trails allow you to discover the wild landscapes of the peninsula, including the Dune du Pilat, the highest point in Western Europe.
• Visit the villages : Cap Ferret and its neighboring villages, such as Piraillan and Lège-Cap-Ferret, offer authentic charm with their colorful oyster houses, lively markets and tasty restaurants.
• Taste the local produce: Oysters from the Bay of Arcachon are world-renowned for their exceptional quality. You can also enjoy other fresh, local products, such as fish, seafood and white wine.