Looking after the Gironde estuary since the 16th century, the Cordouan Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Europe. It is built on the open sea, on a rocky island, 7 kilometers away from the Gironde and Charente coast.

The one who is rightly called the King of Lighthouses, rises to 68 meters (223 feet) and has 6 floors with the particularity of sheltering a chapel dedicated to King Louis XIV. All of this in a stunning Renaissance style.

Do not just admire the lighthouse from a distance, approach it, visit it. Cordouan Express, a taxi-boat of the Côte Fleurie, offers walks and excursions with stopover at Cordouan Lighthouse.

The access to the lantern is done at the end of the 311 steps of the building ... Your effort is largely rewarded by the admirable panorama which is offered to you: the estuary of the Gironde, the Point of Grave, the Girondines and Charente coastlines, the forest of La Coudre, the open sea as far as the eye can see!

For more information, check their website : Phare de Cordouan.

Photo credit : Phare de Cordouan Wikimedia Commons Yann Gwilhoù - Courdouan Express