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Phare de la Conchée: A Sentinel of Saint-Malo

Discover the historic Phare de la Conchée in Saint-Malo: a Vauban-designed fort, a nature reserve, and a testament to France's maritime history.

The Phare de la Conchée, a historic fort and lighthouse, stands on a rocky islet a few miles from Saint-Malo, France. Built by Vauban for King Louis XIV, it has defended the coast for centuries and now serves as a nature reserve, offering stunning views and a glimpse into France's maritime past.

A brief summary to Phare de la conchée

  • MXJ5+R8, Saint-Malo, FR

Local tips

  • Check the tide schedule before visiting Saint-Malo's beaches for the best views of the Phare de la Conchée.
  • Consider taking a boat tour from Saint-Malo for an up-close view of the fort and the surrounding coastline.
  • Visit during sunset for a magical view of the lighthouse against the colorful sky.
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Getting There

  • Boat Taxi

    The only way to reach the Phare de la Conchée is by sea. Several boat taxi companies operate from Saint-Malo's Gare Maritime de la Bourse. Companies like Captain Taxi and Bateau Rouges offer trips to the fort. A round trip to the fort takes approximately 30 minutes. Contact the boat taxi companies directly to book a tour. The single fare for the boat trip is around €20, with an additional €10 for a tour of the fort.

  • Ferry & Walking

    An alternative way to view the Phare de la Conchée is by taking a ferry to Grand Bé island from the harbor in Saint-Malo. The ferry operates regularly and offers scenic views of the coast. Once on Grand Bé, walk towards the northern edge of the island to view the Phare de la Conchée in the distance. Keep track of the ferry schedule for your return. Ferry tickets cost around €7.50.

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Discover more about Phare de la conchée

The Phare de la Conchée, also known as Fort de la Conchée, is a maritime fortification situated on the rocky island of Quincé, approximately 4 kilometers (2 nautical miles) northwest of Saint-Malo, France. This strategic location in the Bay of Saint-Malo was chosen by the renowned military architect Vauban under the commission of King Louis XIV to bolster the coastal defenses of the region. Construction of the fort began in 1692, with Vauban entrusting the project to engineer Siméon de Garengeau. The fort was designed to resemble a stone vessel, blending robust military architecture with the natural contours of the islet. Its primary function was to protect Saint-Malo from English and Dutch naval attacks by controlling access to the harbor. The fort's battery of cannons could target enemy ships attempting to bombard the city. Throughout its history, the Fort de la Conchée faced numerous challenges. In 1693, while still under construction, it was briefly captured by the English. Despite being unfinished, the fort's ten installed guns played a crucial role in repelling another English attack in 1695. The fort was completed in 1705 and later declared obsolete in 1889 before being demilitarized in 1901. During World War II, the fort suffered damage when the Germans used the abandoned structure for target practice, and it was later attacked by Allied forces during the liberation of Saint-Malo. Today, the Fort de la Conchée is a classified historical monument and a private property undergoing restoration. It also serves as a nature reserve for seabirds. While access to the fort is limited, it is occasionally open to the public during events like the European Heritage Days. Visitors can admire the fort from the beaches of Saint-Malo or during boat trips.

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