Cap Carbon

Cap Carbon is a limestone promontory at the western end of the bay of Bejaia, ending in a headland pierced by a natural arch through which the sea runs, with a lighthouse built high above it that stands well over two hundred metres above sea level, which makes it among the highest natural-sited lighthouses on the Mediterranean. The approach runs from the Gouraya park road and then on foot down steps and through a short tunnel cut in the rock, coming out on a walkway above the arch. Below, the water is clear and deep, seabirds nest on the ledges, and the coast opens east toward Bejaia and west toward the coves of the corniche.

What you actually see

• The natural arch below the point - sea running through the rock.
• A lighthouse high above the water - one of the highest on this coast.
• The tunnel and steps - the cut approach through the headland.
• Seabird ledges - the colonies on the cliff faces.

When to go

April to October; the path is slippery and exposed in wet or windy weather. Half a day. Mornings give the best light on the arch. Weekends are busy with local visitors.

Honest expectations

The steps and walkway are unfenced in places with long drops, and the descent is steep. Litter is heavy along the approach. There is no shade or water. The last stretch of road is rough.

Nearby

Gouraya park surrounds it; Aiguades beach lies below to the east.