The original 1860 lighthouse was blown up by retreating German troops on August 4, 1944.
The lighthouse is situated on a site known as Pointe du Paon, where the coastline consists of massive, jagged pink granite formations.
It was automated in the mid-20th century to operate without on-site keepers.
The lighthouse is built on a narrow rock shelf separated from the main island by a small natural chasm.
The light signal is characterized by a white flash every four seconds to assist with nocturnal navigation.
Paon Lighthouse is located at the northernmost point of Île-de-Bréhat in Brittany, France. The current structure, a cylindrical masonry tower, was rebuilt in 1949 after the original lighthouse was destroyed by German forces in 1944. It marks the rocky, treacherous northern extremity of the island known as the Chaussée des Birvideaux. The tower is constructed from local pink granite, characteristic of the Bréhat archipelago. It serves as a navigational aid for vessels navigating the high-current waters between the island and the mainland. Access is restricted to the exterior grounds as the tower itself is not open to the public.
From the coastal path looking north, capturing the lighthouse against the backdrop of the rugged granite rocks.
Visit during low tide to explore the surrounding rock formations safely.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the coastal granite paths are uneven.
Carry windproof clothing, as the northern tip is highly exposed to Atlantic gusts.
Attempting to cross to the lighthouse base during high tide or high wind conditions, as the path can become submerged or slippery.
Stay on marked footpaths to preserve the fragile coastal flora; climbing on the lighthouse tower is prohibited.
