It is right here in Finistère (meaning "End of the World") that you will find the highest concentration of lighthouses in the world : 56 in total. Standing on land or out at sea, these majestic lighthouses, built to withstand time and storms alike, are magnificent monuments of our Breton heritage. Most of them are open to visitors, so don’t miss the chance to take a step back in time !
Since there are so many of them, let me share my 5 favorite lighthouses in the Pays d'Iroise :
Trézien Lighthouse : The closest lighthouse to the gîte, located in the town of Plouarzel. A magnificent path lined with hydrangeas leads you to this majestic structure, built entirely from Aber-Ildut granite. Situated slightly inland, its height makes it visible for miles around. It is open to visitors, and for the brave who climb its 182 steps, the view over the entire coastline and the Iroise Sea is breathtaking. On a clear day, you can admire the islands of Ouessant and Molène.
Saint-Mathieu Lighthouse : A marvellous red and white lighthouse built in 1835, dominating the headland of the same name. The GR34 trail running alongside it offers a superb panorama. It can be visited by day and even by night during school holidays, a truly unique experience !
At the foot of the lighthouse lie the ruins of Saint-Mathieu de Fine Terre Abbey, an ancient monastery dating back to the 12th century. In those days, the monks guided mariners by lighting a beacon at the top of the abbey. These ruins, steeped in history, are free to explore at your own pace. Today, this location serves as a starting point for Camino de Santiago.
Petit Minou Lighthouse : A true picture-postcard spot, often featured whenever Finistère is mentioned. To reach it, you pass through the gates of a Vauban fort (free entry) and follow a cobbled path overlooking the sea, which leads you right to the foot of this "small" granite lighthouse built straight into the rock as close to the water as it gets. Its setting is impressive, offering great views across the Goulet de Brest (Brest Narrows). The GR34 passes right here too, so don't miss the chance to take in the breathtaking panorama on a hike !
Le Four Lighthouse : Well, I wouldn't suggest visiting this one, it's right out at sea ! During storms, waves reach the top at a height of 31 metres. It's one of my absolute favorites, and what's more, you can admire it right from L’Abri de la Plage gîte, what more could you ask for !
When walking around the Saint-Laurent peninsula in Porspoder, you'll be able to see this 150-year-old lighthouse a little closer up, or perhaps catch a glimpse of it during a boat trip.
Ile Vierge Lighthouse : Alright, fair enough we’re heading into a different area ! Here we are in Plouguerneau, in the Pays des Abers, a little further North. But how could we not mention the tallest lighthouse in Europe, standing at 82 metres high. To admire it up close, the Vedettes des Abers offer guided boat trips right out to Ile Vierge.