Canada’s vast coastline and inland waters are adorned with over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights that play a crucial role in guiding ships safely to shore. Beyond their navigational function, these iconic structures also hold significant historical value for the communities they overlook, offering unparalleled opportunities to bask in the wonders of nature.
Exploring the country, we have curated a list of eight extraordinary lighthouses that are sure to captivate visitors.
1. Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia:
Nestled in the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, the red and white Peggy’s Point Lighthouse stands as one of Canada’s most photographed beacons. Legend has it that the cove was named after a young woman named Peggy who survived a shipwreck, adding to the allure of this scenic spot.
2. West Point Lighthouse, West Point, Prince Edward Island:
Standing tall at 21 meters, the black and white West Point Lighthouse offers a mesmerizing view of the Northumberland Strait and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park. This historic landmark, which opened as an inn in 1987, continues to guide maritime traffic with its electric lantern.
3. Fisgard Lighthouse, Colwood, British Columbia:
The first permanent lighthouse on the West Coast, Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood, British Columbia, has been aiding mariners since 1860. Designated as a National Historic Site, the 17-meter tower on Fisgard Island offers panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and the Olympic Mountains in Washington state.
4. Race Rocks Lighthouse, near Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, British Columbia:
Dating back to 1860, the stone Race Rocks Lighthouse stands as the second oldest on the Pacific coast. Located within the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, this striped beacon is a haven for marine wildlife enthusiasts, offering boat tours and exceptional cold-water diving experiences.
5. Ferryland Lighthouse, Ferryland, Newfoundland and Labrador:
Perched on a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic, Ferryland Lighthouse in Newfoundland is a popular destination for picnics and whale-watching. The attached cottage, once home to renowned artist Gerald Squires, adds a touch of cultural richness to the experience.
6. Cape Spear Lighthouse, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador:
As the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland, Cape Spear marks the easternmost point of North America. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunrises and possibly spot whales or icebergs while exploring the nearby East Coast Trail.
7. Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, Toronto, Ontario:
With a legacy dating back to 1808, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Toronto Island is the oldest beacon on the Great Lakes. Besides its historical significance, the lighthouse is infamous for a ghost story that continues to intrigue tourists and paranormal enthusiasts.
8. Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse, Gaspé, Quebec:
Standing at a towering height of 34.1 meters, the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse in Gaspé, Quebec, offers unparalleled views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Built in 1858 to prevent shipwrecks in the treacherous waters, this majestic structure provides a panoramic vista of the gulf and Forillon National Park.
These remarkable lighthouses not only serve as guiding lights for maritime traffic but also stand as testaments to Canada’s rich maritime heritage and natural beauty.