Canada’s coastlines, lakes, and waterways are adorned with over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights that play a crucial role in guiding ships to safety. These iconic beacons not only ensure safe navigation but also hold historical significance for the communities they overlook.
In our quest to uncover the most intriguing lighthouses in the country, we’ve identified eight unique gems that are truly worth a visit.
1. **Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove, N.S.**
Proudly standing in the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, the vibrant red and white Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is a beloved landmark. Legend has it that the village was named after a survivor of a shipwreck named Peggy, though it likely derives its name from St. Margarets Bay. Exploring the quaint village with its granite shoreline and colorful lobster boats is a delightful experience.
2. **West Point Lighthouse, West Point, P.E.I.**
The striking black and white West Point Lighthouse in Prince Edward Island, towering at 21 meters, offers breathtaking views of the Northumberland Strait and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park. Operating as an inn since 1987, it boasts 13 rooms, including one within the tower, while a functioning electric lantern continues to guide maritime traffic. The lighthouse museum showcases artifacts and stories from its 151-year history.
3. **Fisgard Lighthouse, Colwood, B.C.**
Built in 1860, Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood, British Columbia, remains the first permanent beacon on the West Coast, aiding mariners with its battery-powered light. Designated as a National Historic Site, the 17-meter tower on Fisgard Island provides stunning views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and, on clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains in Washington state.
4. **Race Rocks Lighthouse, near Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, B.C.**
Dating back to 1860, Race Rocks Lighthouse is the second oldest on the Pacific coast, standing tall at 24.4 meters on a rocky island southwest of Victoria. Located within the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, this striped beacon offers a glimpse into a vibrant marine ecosystem teeming with sea lions, seals, whales, and bald eagles. Boat tours are available to witness the rich marine wildlife in the area.
5. **Ferryland Lighthouse, Ferryland, N.L.**
Perched on a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic in Newfoundland, Ferryland Lighthouse is a popular spot for picnics and whale watching. The adjacent cottage, once home to renowned artist Gerald Squires, prepares packed lunches for visitors to enjoy amidst the scenic views.
6. **Cape Spear Lighthouse, St. John’s**
Sitting proudly at North America’s easternmost point in Newfoundland, Cape Spear Lighthouse is the oldest surviving beacon in the region. Early risers can witness the first sunrise on the continent and may also spot whales or icebergs in the distance. The nearby East Coast Trail offers opportunities for berry picking and stunning coastal vistas.
7. **Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, Toronto**
Established in 1808, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Toronto Island holds the distinction of being the oldest beacon on the Great Lakes. Apart from its historical significance, the lighthouse is renowned for a ghost story that has intrigued tourists and paranormal enthusiasts over the years. The ferry ride to Toronto Island provides a captivating view of the city’s skyline.
8. **Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse, Gaspé, Que.**
Standing at an impressive 34.1 meters on a cliff in Gaspé, Quebec, Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse is the tallest in Canada. Built in 1858 to prevent shipwrecks in the perilous waters where the St. Lawrence River meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence, this beacon offers a panoramic view of the gulf, making it an ideal spot for whale watching and enjoying the rugged cliffs of Forillon National Park.
