An external resonator which includes a multiple resonator with parameters which allow stable wavelength control, and a variable-wavelength light source includes such an external resonator are provided. The external resonator is a multiple resonator which is made up of first to third ring-shaped resonators, each having different light path length, and connected in series via optical coupling means. The parameters of the multiple resonator are characterized in that all the following Expressions <1>, <2> and <3> hold: L1={M1/(M1-1)}L0 <1> L2={M2/(M2-1)}L0 <2> M2-1=(M1-1).sup.2 <3> where L0 is the light path length of the first resonator, L1 is the light path length of the second resonator and L2 is the light path length of the third resonator, and M1 and M2 are integers of 3 or greater.