Visit the Baleines lighthouse
Campsite 25 minutes from the Phare des Baleines lighthouse
During your camping holiday in Loix, don’t miss the most famous site on the Île de Ré, the famous Baleines lighthouse. Situated on the western tip of the Ile de Ré, in the commune of Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, the lighthouse owes its name to the fact that a large number of whales once beached themselves here.
Listed as a historic monument, the Baleines lighthouse is a 25-minute drive from Les Ilates and a 50-minute bike ride. Spend a good half-day visiting this majestic site and its surroundings.
Car parking and a shuttle bus make it easy to get here. With family or friends, take the time to admire this incredibly well-preserved must-see site in Rennes during your camping vacation near the Baleines lighthouse.
What to see at the Phare des Baleines
The Baleines lighthouse is the island’s most visited monument, and the view from the top is undoubtedly what attracts visitors. From the top of the 57-metre lighthouse, admire a breathtaking panorama overlooking the Conche beach, the salt marshes and the surrounding forest. 257 steps for an unprecedented reward. Admire the scenery from the top of this tall tower and experience a moment of history during your camping holiday near the Baleines lighthouse with family or friends, by visiting the Tour des Baleines.
Built in 1682 by the architect Augier, this tower is constructed from ashlar quarried in Saint-Savinien. Designed at a time of dense maritime traffic, it was a solution to the problem of the many shipwrecks of the time. French ports and coasts are not sufficiently equipped to guide ships. The building has 3 floors with 3 rooms accessed via a staircase. Make the most of your stay at camping Les Ilates to catch a glimpse of a wide horizon.
Things to do at Phare des Baleines
During your stay in a mobile home or cabin in Les Ilates, reach the Baleines lighthouse and its shops at the foot of the lighthouse. Climb the 257 steps up to the lighthouse, and after your descent, treat yourself to a well-deserved gourmet break. Taste the famous artisanal ice creams and waffles from La Martinière, the island’s famous master ice cream maker with a 50-year history.
For your lunch break, take your picnic and enjoy it on the Conche beach, in front of the lighthouse, or treat yourself to lunch in one of the many local-flavored restaurants nearby.
Stroll through the various souvenir shops and donkey milk soaps. As well as climbing the lighthouse, extend your cultural outing with a visit to the museum and the Old Whale Tower to unravel the mystery surrounding this site steeped in history.
