La Coubre Lighthouse: Sentinel of the Coast

Ascend the historic La Coubre Lighthouse near La Tremblade for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic coast, explore its museum, and discover the rich maritime history of the region.

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Lighthouse of La Coubre

Rising majestically from the edge of the La Coubre forest, the La Coubre Lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime history and a testament to human ingenuity. Located near La Tremblade, this towering structure guides ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Gironde Estuary. Ascend its 300 steps for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the surrounding coastline, and the verdant forest. The lighthouse also houses a museum detailing its history, the lives of its keepers, and the evolution of lighthouse technology. Whether you're drawn to its architectural grandeur, its historical significance, or simply the breathtaking vistas from its summit, the La Coubre Lighthouse promises an unforgettable experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the climb, and a jacket is advisable due to the often-windy conditions at the top.

A brief summary to Lighthouse of La Coubre

Lieu dit La Coubre, La Tremblade, 17390, FR
+33546062642
Visit website

Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top of the lighthouse, as there are 300 steps.
Bring a jacket, as it can be windy at the top of the lighthouse, even on warm days.
Combine your visit to the lighthouse with a walk along the Côte Sauvage or a visit to the nearby La Palmyre Zoo.
Check the opening hours and ticket prices on the official website before your visit, as they may vary depending on the season.

Getting There

Driving

From La Tremblade, follow signs for 'Phare de la Coubre'. The drive is approximately 10 minutes. Ample free parking is available near the lighthouse. Note that the car park closes at night.
Public Transport

Take the CARA n°31 bus from Royan or La Tremblade to the 'Phare de la Coubre' stop. Check the local bus schedule for current fares and times. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the lighthouse entrance.
Cycling

Follow the well-marked cycling paths through the La Coubre forest to the lighthouse. The lighthouse is a popular stop on the Vélodyssée route. Bike parking is available. Note that the ride from La Tremblade is approximately 30 minutes.

Discover more about Lighthouse of La Coubre

The La Coubre Lighthouse, affectionately nicknamed the 'Sentinel of the Wild Coast,' is more than just a navigational aid; it's a symbol of resilience, a historical landmark, and a breathtaking vantage point offering unparalleled views of the Charente-Maritime region. Located in the commune of La Tremblade, at the northern edge of the Gironde Estuary, the lighthouse's story is intertwined with the maritime history of the area. The treacherous waters and shifting sandbanks of the estuary have long posed a threat to ships, leading to numerous shipwrecks over the centuries. To combat this danger, the first lighthouse on Pointe de la Coubre was established in 1690, a humble wooden structure designed to guide sailors away from peril. As maritime traffic increased, a more substantial lighthouse became necessary. In 1860, a stone lighthouse was constructed approximately 1.5 kilometers from the coastline. However, its lifespan was tragically short. Relentless marine erosion undermined its foundations, and in 1907, just twelve years after its completion, the stone lighthouse collapsed into the sea. The current La Coubre Lighthouse, an imposing concrete structure, was commissioned in 1905. Standing 64 meters tall with 300 steps, it is the tallest lighthouse in Charente-Maritime and one of the most powerful in France. Its construction marked a significant advancement in lighthouse technology, being one of the first to be built entirely of concrete. The metal staircase inside was designed by Gustave Eiffel, adding to its architectural significance. The interior is lined with 7,500 blue opaline tiles. More than a century later, the La Coubre Lighthouse continues to serve its vital function, its light automated and monitored by the French Lighthouse and Beacon Service. Its primary light has a range of 52 kilometers. It also has a secondary light, known as 'the barbette', which shines red to warn of closer dangers like sandbanks. Visitors can ascend the 300 steps to the top of the lighthouse, where a breathtaking 360-degree panorama awaits. From this vantage point, one can admire the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, the intricate network of the Gironde Estuary, the lush greenery of the La Coubre forest, and the distant silhouette of the Île d'Oléron. The view is particularly stunning at sunset, when the sky is ablaze with color. At the base of the lighthouse, a museum provides insights into the history of the structure, the lives of the lighthouse keepers who once maintained it, and the evolution of lighthouse technology. Exhibits showcase historical artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the story of the La Coubre Lighthouse to life. The area surrounding the lighthouse offers a variety of activities for visitors. The Côte Sauvage, a rugged stretch of coastline, is perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The nearby La Palmyre Zoo is a popular destination for families, while the charming village of La Tremblade is known for its oyster farms and seafood restaurants. The lighthouse is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. It is also a popular stop for cyclists exploring the Vélodyssée, a long-distance cycling route that runs along the Atlantic coast. The lighthouse provides facilities for cyclists. Throughout the year, the La Coubre Lighthouse hosts a variety of events and activities, including temporary art exhibitions, guided tours, and even sporting competitions like the 'Extreme 300,' a race to climb the lighthouse stairs in the fastest time. Despite its robust construction and ongoing maintenance, the La Coubre Lighthouse faces a new challenge: coastal erosion. The relentless forces of the Atlantic Ocean are gradually eroding the coastline, bringing the sea ever closer to the lighthouse. While the structure is not in immediate danger, steps are being taken to monitor the situation and explore potential solutions to protect this iconic landmark for future generations. A visit to the La Coubre Lighthouse is a journey through time, a celebration of human ingenuity, and an immersion in the natural beauty of the Charente-Maritime region. It is a place where history, technology, and nature converge to create an unforgettable experience.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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La Coubre Lighthouse: Sentinel of the Coast

A brief summary to Lighthouse of La Coubre

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Public Transport

Cycling

Unlock the Best of Lighthouse of La Coubre

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Lighthouse of La Coubre

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Fort Louvois

Fort Enet

Pnte de la Fumée

Honor Tower

DS à la carte - Visites guidées La Rochelle

KELONE - Balade en mer La Rochelle - Sortie en voilier depuis le Port des Minimes

University of La Rochelle

Église Saint-Nicolas

Casino Barrière La Rochelle

Hotel Les Gens De Mer La Rochelle

Monument historique

Le Village Francocéan des Francofolies

Village Francocéan

La Rochelle Agglomeration Tourist Office

Rue sur les Murs

Unmissable attractions to see

Plage de Bonne Anse

Plage de Gatseau

Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Fin-des-Terres de Soulac-sur-Mer

Espace Champlain

Halle aux vivres

Beach

Plage de l’Amelie

Église Notre-Dame de Corme-Écluse

Fontaine royale de Lupin

Abbaye de Trizay

Pont Transbordeur

Fort Boyard

Fouras Fort

Place Colbert

National Museum of the Marine Rochefort

Essential places to dine

Le Logis Du Péré

L'Amaranthe

Le Domaine du Seudre

Le Dallaison Restaurant

La Villa Blanche

L'Hysope

LA MARÉE, Restaurant de Poissons et Fruits de Mer

La Yole de Chris

L'ardoise restaurant la rochelle

Restaurant Le Mail - La Rochelle

La Kase - Restaurant La Rochelle

Restaurant Les Flots

Les Fils à Maman La Rochelle

Le Bistrot d'la chaîne

Bon Temps

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Vintage Road

L'Echoppe Souvenirs Cadeaux

les charentes en boutique

The Stall of the Beach

La Vie en Liège

ESPRITVOILES

ETC...A

Boutique Marine

Blue Marine

Désordre Chéri

Aux délices du terroir

bien à LR

Craft

46ieme Latitude

Les Mouettes

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Le Bar Sous Pression

Time is Time

Chez Auguste