Biarritz Lighthouse
Nouvelle-Aquitaine
The Biarritz Lighthouse, located on the rocky promontory of Pointe Saint-Martin in southwestern France, stands 47 meters tall atop a cliff 75 meters above sea level. Constructed between 1830 and 1832 and operational since February 1834, it was designed by engineer Vionnois with architectural input from Augustin Fresnel, famous for the Fresnel lens technology installed in 1904. The cylindrical white tower, originally octagonal at its base, was expanded in 1950 to accommodate electrification and automated in 1980. The lighthouse features 248 steps leading to a copper dome adorned with twelve unique bronze lion heads serving as gargoyles. It guides vessels with two ten-second light flashes visible up to 48 kilometers, marking the transition between the sandy Landes coast and the rocky Basque coast. Recognized as a historic monument since 2009, it remains a symbol of Biarritz's maritime past and is accessible year-round for visitors wishing to experience breathtaking views and architectural heritage.
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Tip: Visit during the summer months (June to August) when opening hours extend to 19:00 for the best experience. Booking in advance through the Biarritz Tourist Office website is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Admission discounts are available for children and groups, and access is free for children under six. The lighthouse can be visited independently without a guide, and the last entry is 30 minutes before closing. Check seasonal opening hours carefully as they vary throughout the year.
Interesting facts
- •The lighthouse's copper dome is decorated with twelve distinct bronze lion heads acting as gargoyles.
- •It emits two ten-second flashes visible up to 48 kilometers away, guiding ships safely along the coast.
- •The tower has 248 steps leading to the top observation platform.
- •It hosted a prestigious dinner during the 2019 G7 summit attended by world leaders.
- •The lighthouse marks the boundary between the sandy Landes coast and the rocky Basque coast.
History
The Biarritz Lighthouse was conceived in 1825 and constructed from 1830 to 1832 to aid maritime navigation along the Bay of Biscay.
Its design incorporated Fresnel's revolutionary lens technology in 1904, significantly improving its light range.
The tower was expanded in 1950 to support electrification, and it became automated by 1980.
It was officially listed as a historic monument in 2009, recognizing its architectural and cultural importance.
Notably, in 2019, it hosted a dinner during the G7 summit, highlighting its status as a landmark.
Place Guide
The Tower and Staircase1830-1832
The cylindrical white tower features 248 steps leading visitors to the lantern room at the top. The staircase allows for panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay and surrounding coastline.
Copper Dome with Bronze Lion Gargoyles1904 (lantern update)
The lighthouse's lantern room is topped with a copper dome adorned with twelve unique bronze lion heads, each serving as a decorative gargoyle. These lions are all different, adding artistic value to the structure.
Fresnel Lens Optical System1904
Installed in 1904, the Fresnel lens and catadioptric rings enable the lighthouse to emit two distinct light flashes every ten seconds, visible up to 48 kilometers at night, ensuring safe navigation along the coast.
Contact
Phone: 05 59 22 37 10
