Name and Location

The Phare du Bout du Monde de La Rochelle, also known simply as "Phare du Bout du Monde," stands on the northern breakwater at the entrance to the Port des Minimes in La Rochelle, Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France.

2. Construction and History

The Phare du Bout du Monde de La Rochelle is an operational daymark and light tower serving local recreational and small-vessel traffic. The exact construction date or historical significance of the lighthouse are not publicly documented.

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands on a pyramidal framework, painted in white. The tower structure is 15 meters tall, with the light focal plane located 8 meters above mean high water. The construction materials are likely steel framework, but this information has not been officially documented.

4. Light and Navigation

Phare du Bout du Monde displays two sector lights: a white light flashing every 12 seconds and a green light also flashing every 12 seconds, with the same sequence. The nominal range for the white light is 8 nautical miles, covering bearings from 059° to 213°, while the green light has a range of 5 nautical miles, covering bearings from 313° to 059°.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can reach the tower by walking or cycling along the Minimes marina breakwater. The lighthouse is accessible for exterior viewing only; climbing or entry is prohibited.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

• From the jetty promenade, visitors can photograph the tower against panoramic views of the Île de Ré to the west and the open Atlantic horizon.
• Nearby attractions include Plage des Minimes (beach), Port des Minimes marina facilities (cafés, boat rentals), Aquarium de La Rochelle (city center), and Historic Old Port and La Rochelle's medieval towers (Vieux Port).

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

The name "Bout du Monde" evokes Jules Verne's 1873 novel L’Île mystérieuse, in which a "lighthouse at the end of the world" plays a role. It is sometimes said that the La Rochelle tower is a modern homage or replica of the former Argentine "Phare du Bout du Monde" (Cape San Juan, Tierra del Fuego, 1884–1902). This connection remains speculative.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The Phare du Bout du Monde de La Rochelle is fully automated and has no resident keeper. The managing authority is likely the Port de Plaisance de La Rochelle under the City of La Rochelle. Admiralty number: D1253, NGA list number: 113-1360, French national chart: SHOM 1700-series.

9. Further Information