The Chauveau lighthouse, the only lighthouse in Charente-Maritime that was once inhabitable at sea.
This building cannot be visited.
This building cannot be visited.
The Chauveau lighthouse, opposite the headland of the same name off Rivedoux-Plage, is the only habitable lighthouse at sea in Charente-Maritime.
Lantern of the Chauveau lighthouse - Rivedoux-Plage - Île de Ré
The Chauveau lighthouse was built between 1839 and 1842 by chief engineer Garnier and second engineer Potel. It is located 1200 m from the Pointe de Chauveau and measures 30.70 m, 27.30 m of which is above the sea.
The Chauveau tower is a trumpet-shaped structure. The flared base, with its concave profile, gives it a firm footing and greater resistance to wave impacts. The base of this truncated cone-shaped tower is made of oak shafts, covered in smooth, white-painted stonework. Its silhouette is astonishingly slender for a lighthouse at sea, the slimmest of all towers built at sea.
Evolution over the years:
1874: mineral oil replaced by rapeseed oil.
1906: rapeseed oil replaced by petroleum vapour.
1968: the lighthouse became automated following the installation of a wind generator.
The lighthouse still has all its period furniture. Renovation and modernisation work is planned. In addition to wind power, solar power is also being considered. The lighthouse will become increasingly efficient and energy-efficient. The Chauveau lighthouse is not currently open to the public.
PLEASE NOTE: the Chauveau site is closed to foot fishing every year from 1 November to 28 February by municipal decree.
Lantern of the Chauveau lighthouse - Rivedoux-Plage - Île de Ré
The Chauveau lighthouse was built between 1839 and 1842 by chief engineer Garnier and second engineer Potel. It is located 1200 m from the Pointe de Chauveau and measures 30.70 m, 27.30 m of which is above the sea.
The Chauveau tower is a trumpet-shaped structure. The flared base, with its concave profile, gives it a firm footing and greater resistance to wave impacts. The base of this truncated cone-shaped tower is made of oak shafts, covered in smooth, white-painted stonework. Its silhouette is astonishingly slender for a lighthouse at sea, the slimmest of all towers built at sea.
Evolution over the years:
1874: mineral oil replaced by rapeseed oil.
1906: rapeseed oil replaced by petroleum vapour.
1968: the lighthouse became automated following the installation of a wind generator.
The lighthouse still has all its period furniture. Renovation and modernisation work is planned. In addition to wind power, solar power is also being considered. The lighthouse will become increasingly efficient and energy-efficient. The Chauveau lighthouse is not currently open to the public.
PLEASE NOTE: the Chauveau site is closed to foot fishing every year from 1 November to 28 February by municipal decree.
Services
Services
Not open to the public
Rates
Rates
Free access.
—
Openings
Openings
All year 2025 - Open everyday
Canceled or closed
Location
Location
Environment
Environment
- Isolated
