Île d'Or, Private islet near Cap Dramont, Saint-Raphaël, France
Île d'Or is a small rocky islet of red porphyry in the Mediterranean Sea near Saint-Raphaël, crowned by a square fortification built from stones of the Esterel mountains. The structure sits roughly 400 meters offshore and is visible from both the coastal paths and the water.
An architect named Sergent purchased the islet in 1897 for 280 francs, after which it later came into the hands of Dr. Auguste Lutaud, who declared himself sovereign of this territory. These private ownerships shaped the history of the site through to the present day.
The island and its medieval-style fortification inspired Belgian cartoonist Hergé when creating the setting for The Black Island in The Adventures of Tintin series. This literary connection makes the small islet a place that comic book fans around the world recognize.
The best views of the islet come from the hiking trails at Cap Dramont or during kayak trips along the coast. The site is reachable from land, and visitors should wear good shoes for the paths.
From certain angles on the sea, the left side of the tower resembles a gorilla profile, which boat travelers find intriguing. This natural rock formation is an entertaining detail for observers approaching from the water side.
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