Canada’s coastlines and waterways are home to over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights that play a crucial role in guiding ships to safety. Beyond their navigational function, these beacons hold significant historical value for surrounding communities and offer a unique way to connect with nature.
Venturing across the country, we have uncovered eight extraordinary lighthouses that are sure to capture your imagination.
Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, situated in the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, stands as one of the most photographed lighthouses in Canada. Legend has it that the name “Peggy’s Cove” is tied to a shipwreck survivor named Margaret, or Peggy, who found refuge on Halibut Rock.
In West Point, Prince Edward Island, the striking black and white West Point Lighthouse, towering at 21 meters, offers breathtaking views 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.
Fisgard Lighthouse, the first permanent beacon on the West Coast, stands tall in Colwood, British Columbia, serving as a guiding light for mariners navigating the waters. The lighthouse, a National Historic Site, overlooks Esquimalt Harbour and provides stunning views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and the Olympic Mountains.
Located in the Juan de Fuca Strait near Victoria, British Columbia, Race Rocks Lighthouse, built in 1860, stands as the second oldest lighthouse on the Pacific coast. Nestled within the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, this stone lighthouse offers unparalleled opportunities to witness diverse marine wildlife in their natural habitat.
Perched on a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic in Ferryland, Newfoundland, Ferryland Lighthouse is a popular destination for picnics and whale-watching. The attached cottage, once home to celebrated artist Gerald Squires, serves as a hub for preparing packed lunches for visitors.
Cape Spear Lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland, sits proudly at North America’s easternmost point. Visitors to this historic site can witness spectacular sunrises and, on lucky days, spot whales or icebergs in the distance, while exploring the scenic East Coast Trail.
Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, dating back to 1808 on Toronto Island, is the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes and a renowned landmark in the city. Apart from its historical significance, the lighthouse is famous for its ghostly tales, attracting curious tourists and paranormal enthusiasts alike.
At the edge of a cliff in Gaspé, Quebec, stands the imposing Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Canada at 34.1 meters. Built in 1858 in response to numerous shipwrecks in the area, this lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the rugged cliffs of Forillon National Park.
Embark on a journey to these remarkable lighthouses across Canada to witness their beauty and immerse yourself in the rich maritime history they embody.
