Name and Location

The Phare de Kernevest, also known as the Kernevest Lighthouse, is a minor coastal beacon tower located at 8 Rue du Phare in Saint-Philibert, Morbihan department of Brittany, north-western France. It marks a local coastal approach on the Gulf of Morbihan shoreline and is referenced in international navigation publications.

Location

The lighthouse is situated on the Rhuys peninsula coast overlooking the Gulf of Morbihan, with low dunes and coastal paths surrounding it. The exact coordinates are 47°34′23.9″ N, 3°00′28.0″ W. For a map link, visit https://www.google.com/maps?q=47.572983,-3.0077634.

Construction and History

The construction year of the Phare de Kernevest is unknown, with no published record available. It is likely that it was built in the late 19th or early 20th century. The lighthouse does not have official heritage status as a "monument historique" (as of the latest public registers).

Architecture and Materials

The Phare de Kernevest is a cylindrical masonry tower, with rough-cast rendered stone or concrete typical of regional minor lighthouses. The colour scheme is white, with possible red trim (as seen in gallery images). The height is unknown, but the focal plane is estimated to be at a low-coast level.

Light and Navigation

The characteristic of the light is not published, likely fixed or occulting white light. The range is also not published, probably under 10 nautical miles given its small size. It is presumed automated, with no keeper's quarters or staff on site. The current function is as an active coastal beacon.

Accessibility and Visiting

The tower is located on private land or fenced, with exterior viewing only. Visitors can reach the site by car via Rue du Phare in Saint-Philibert, parking on adjacent public road, and taking a short walk over a coastal path. There are no on-site facilities or guided tours available.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the lighthouse, one can enjoy panoramic views over the Gulf of Morbihan, nearby isles, and tidal flats. Notable images can be found on Wikimedia Commons (File:Phare de Kernevest.jpg).

Technical and Operational Details

The managing authority of the Phare de Kernevest is likely the French Corps des Phares et Balises under the Ministère de la Mer or local port authorities.

Further Information

For further reading, visit OpenStreetMap entry at https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/94112033, Wikidata at https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q63066734, Admiralty List of Lights volume for French coasts (D1050.1), and NGA List of Lights publication (113-756).