Name and Location

The Phare des Heaux de Bréhat lighthouse is located at the coordinates of 48.9084496° N, 3.0862787° W in Pleubian, France.

Construction and History

The Phare des Heaux de Bréhat has been guiding mariners since its construction during the 19th century. It was classified as a French heritage monument (Monument historique) in 2011, recognizing its historical significance and importance to France's cultural landscape.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 49 meters, with a focal height of 55.96 meters above sea level. It was constructed using stone and brick materials, with a distinctive rectangular shape and a lantern room housing the light source. The traditional Breton architectural style adds to its unique charm.

Light and Navigation

The Phare des Heaux de Bréhat originally featured a Fl(3)W.15s light characteristic, indicating a flashing white light every 15 seconds. Its original range was approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers), providing guidance to mariners navigating the coastal waters of Brittany.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, although the lantern room is not open to the public due to safety concerns. To reach the Phare des Heaux de Bréhat, travelers can take local transportation or drive from nearby cities such as Lorient or Rennes.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse has been featured in various photographs and galleries, showcasing its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including the rugged coastline and rolling hills.

Anecdotes and Folklore

• Locals have long associated the Phare des Heaux de Bréhat with tales of shipwrecks, rescues, and seafaring legends, adding to its rich cultural heritage.
• The lighthouse is referenced on various nautical charts, including those published by the French hydrographic service (Service hydrographique et océanographique de la France).

Technical and Operational Details

The Phare des Heaux de Bréhat has been automated since its initial construction, eliminating the need for manual operation by lighthouse keepers. Today, it remains an active aid to navigation, serving as a beacon for sailors and boats traveling through the area.

Further Information

For further reading and information, please consult the Wikipedia article on "Phare des Héaux de Bréhat" (French: fr:Phare des Héaux de Bréhat). The Phare des Heaux de Bréhat is managed by the French Ministry of Culture (Ministère de la Culture) under the auspices of the Ministry of National Education, Youth and Sports (Ministère de l'Éducation nationale, de la Jeunesse et des Sports).