Name and Location

The Phare de la Pointe-Doublé, also known as La Désirade Lighthouse, is a coastal light marking the southern tip of La Désirade island off Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, France. Its official name is Phare de la Pointe-Doublé.

2. Construction and History

The lighthouse was built on a rocky promontory overlooking the Atlantic to the south and open sea to the east. The exact construction date is not documented, but it is likely to be from the early to mid-20th century. In the late 20th century, the light was automated, and no longer manned by resident keepers. It has been registered as a Monument Historique (ref. PA97100028) since then.

3. Architecture and Materials

The tower is a cylindrical masonry or reinforced-concrete structure with a gallery and lantern. The height of the tower above ground level is 27 meters, while its focal height (light) is approximately 50 meters above sea level. The appearance is that of a white tower with a horizontal red band at lantern level and a red lantern roof. The materials used are painted masonry or concrete.

4. Light and Navigation

The light characteristic is a Group flashing (Fl (2) W) every 10 seconds, consisting of two white flashes in each cycle. The range is 20 nautical miles, with the light source being a modern electric lamp (likely halogen or LED). There are no defined dark sectors; instead, it covers 360°.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse is not open to the public, meaning there is no interior access or guided tours. Visitors can access it by car or 4x4 via the "Route du Phare" (unpaved road) from the main village. Parking is available at the base of the lighthouse, and a short coastal walk leads to a viewing platform. The best time to visit is in the morning for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse offers panoramic views over Pointe-Doublé and the Atlantic horizon. Nearby attractions include Petite Anse beach (swimming, snorkeling), old windmill sites, and natural trails across the island.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local fishermen, the light has guided many small traditional pirogues through sudden squalls. Although no major shipwrecks are officially recorded in the immediate vicinity, treacherous reefs lie offshore.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The Admiralty chart is J5724, while the NGA chart is 110-14812. There is no publicly reported AIS or radar information available. The lighthouse is managed by the Service des Phares et Balises (French Lighthouse and Beacon Service), under the Direction des Affaires Maritimes.

9. Further Information

For further reading, refer to the Ministry of Culture, Mérimée database (PA97100028) and the French Wikipedia page on "Phare de la Pointe-Doublé".