The original 1860 lighthouse was destroyed by German forces in 1944 during the liberation of France.
The lighthouse is constructed entirely from locally sourced pink granite, which gives the structure its specific hue.
It is an active, automated lighthouse that uses a green light to mark the northern limit of the channel.
The name 'Men Ruz' is derived from the Breton language, meaning 'red stone'.
It is situated on the Sentier des Douaniers, a coastal trail historically used by customs officers to combat smuggling.
The lighthouse marks the entrance to the Ploumanac'h harbor, known for its extreme tidal variations.
Phare de Men Ruz is a granite lighthouse situated on the Ploumanac'h headland in Perros-Guirec, France. It is built from the distinctive pink granite native to the Côte de Granit Rose. The current structure, dating to 1948, replaced an earlier 1860 lighthouse destroyed during World War II. The lighthouse serves as a signal for vessels navigating the rocky channels of the Seven Islands archipelago. It stands at a height of 15 meters and features a distinctive square tower design. The surrounding site is part of the protected coastal footpath known as the Sentier des Douaniers. Access to the interior of the lighthouse is restricted to the public as it remains an active navigational aid.
From the rocky shoreline directly in front of the lighthouse during sunset.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the uneven granite rock formations around the lighthouse.
Visit during low tide to explore the rock pools and geological features exposed at the base of the headland.
Bring windproof clothing, as the exposed headland experiences significant coastal gusts.
Do not attempt to climb the lighthouse structure or wander off the paths into restricted conservation areas.
Stay on marked paths to prevent erosion of the fragile coastal landscape.
