Le Grau-du-Roi – Gard – Occitanie
L'Espiguette lighthouse
35 min by car, walk & visit
In the heart of the dunes of the Gard Camargue, near Le Grau-du-Roi, L'Espiguette lighthouse is one of the emblematic monuments of the Mediterranean coast. Easily recognised by its tall, dark square tower, it has guided sailors for more than 150 years.
A sentinel among the dunes
Built between 1866 and 1869 on what was then an isolated beach, the lighthouse originally stood just a few dozen metres from the sea. Today it is about 700 metres from the shore: a spectacular phenomenon that illustrates the gradual advance of the sand and the natural evolution of the Espiguette coastline.
Listed as a historic monument since 2012, it stands out for its unusual architecture: a square tower nearly 27 metres high, inspired by signal towers and military architecture. Automated since 1980, it still marks the coast for sailors with its flashes of light.
A panoramic view of the Camargue
The visit takes you up the 111 steps of the tower to a superb viewpoint. From the top, the view stretches over the Mediterranean, the vast beaches of L'Espiguette, the dunes, the lagoons and the wild landscapes of the Camargue.
The former keepers' quarters also house a museum space devoted to the history of the lighthouse, maritime navigation and the fragile environment around it. An ideal visit to combine with a day at the beach or a walk through the wide natural spaces of L'Espiguette.
Prices and booking
The visit to L'Espiguette lighthouse and its museum costs €9.50 for adults aged 13 and over. A reduced rate of €7 applies to children aged 6 to 12, as well as students, jobseekers and people with disabilities. Entry is free for children under 6. (please check that this information is still up to date on the website below)
Booking online is strongly recommended, and may be compulsory for some time slots, as the number of visitors allowed up the tower is limited. Allow about 30 minutes for the climb and an extra hour if you also want to see the museum space.
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Extend your discovery of Le Grau-du-Roi by staying at our villa nearby. A comfortable, peaceful setting, ideal for exploring the villages of the Petite Camargue and the Mediterranean beaches, while enjoying some real relaxation.
In a villa sleeping 12 or an apartment sleeping 4 or 8, enjoy a peaceful stay.
Accommodation for up to 12 guests
from 100 € / night
1 night
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