Île Vierge and its lighthouse
Do you love wide open spaces and the feeling of being alone in the world?
Then set course for Ile Vierge in Plouguerneau in North Finistère, a charming islet that will brighten up your stay at the Slow Village Breizh Légendes campsite.
Where is Virgin Island?
L'île Vierge is an islet in northern Finistère, located in the seaside resort of Plouguerneau, 1.5 km from the coast and the locality of Kastell Ac'h.
It is characterized by its wild appearance and its 82.5 m high lighthouse, a listed historic monument.
From the Slow Village Breizh Légendes campsite, it takes between 30 and 40 minutes by car to take the boat to Ile Vierge.
The shortest route (25 km) is the D10, which passes through Kerlouan and Guissény before reaching Plouguerneau.
Then take the D71 towards La Manche.
You'll pass through several hamlets and villages (Croaz Hir, Croaz Cuguen, Ravanion, Croaz Tévézan, Lilia, Kervenni Vihan) until you reach Kastell Ac'h.
L'île Vierge, a little corner of paradise in northern Finistère
It's hard to imagine that monks settled here and founded a monastery in the 15th century.
The minor Cordeliers of the Observance remained here for 60 years, before deciding to return to the mainland.
Today, l'île Vierge fascinates visitors with its isolation, its lighthouse overlooking the English Channel and its unspoilt nature.
It can be reached by boat with Les Vedettes des Abers (book online or by telephone on 02 98 04 74 94), by sail, kayak or paddle, or on foot at low tide during organized walks (information from the tourist office: 02 98 04 70 93).
Once there, admire the jagged coastline in front of you, swim at the beach, breathe in the sea air and take your children fishing on foot between the rocks. Coves and cliffs also await you as you stroll along the coastal path with its splendid sea views. The surrounding area also boasts some of Brittany's most beautiful beaches, not to be missed on your vacation. Try your hand at surfing or kayaking to see the island from the sea!
Île Vierge lighthouse
The Île Vierge lighthouse was built at the end of the 19th century and commissioned in 1902.
Made from local granite, it stands 82.5 m high.
To reach the top, 383 steps must be climbed to reach the parapet walk (no access to the lantern). Your effort will be rewarded by a 360ºC panoramic view of the English Channel and the Finistère coastline.
You'll also see the old lighthouse, built between 1842 and 1845, a massive square tower over 30 m high.
Classified as a historic monument in 2011, the Île Vierge lighthouse is the 4th highest in the world, with a range of over 50 km.
Until 2010, it was operated by several keepers.
It is now fully automated. It is open to the public on fine days between March and October.
Guided tour times depend on tide times.
Tickets can be purchased from the Abers Tourisme online ticketing service or from the Pays des Abers tourist offices.
Admission to the lighthouse ranges from €7 to €9 for adults / €4 to €6 (children aged 4 to 12) / free (children under 4).
