Peggy cove lighthouse

Peggy's Cove Lighthouse in Nova Scotia is one of Canada's most photographed lighthouses, with its distinctive red and white concrete structure atop granite rocks.

About this subject

Peggy's Cove Lighthouse, officially named Peggy's Point Lighthouse, is located in the small fishing community of Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, Canada. Built in 1915, it replaced an earlier wooden lighthouse from 1868. The current tower is made of reinforced concrete, painted in the red and white colors typical of Canadian lighthouses. It stands 15 meters tall, with its light positioned 25 meters above sea level, reaching up to 24 kilometers out to sea.

The lighthouse is not only a navigational aid but also a cultural and tourist icon. Peggy's Cove attracts approximately 700,000 visitors annually, who come to admire the dramatic landscape of smooth granite rocks carved by glaciers and the Atlantic Ocean. The village retains its original fishing community character, with colorful houses and fishing boats. The lighthouse houses a small Canada Post office in summer, where tourists can send letters with a special postmark.

The area is known for violent waves and dangerous currents, which have caused several fatalities over the years. In 1998, Swissair Flight 111 crashed offshore, and the lighthouse served as a reference point for rescue operations. Despite its picturesque setting, the slippery rocks and big waves require caution from visitors. The lighthouse was automated in 1962 and no longer has a resident keeper, but it remains an essential landmark of the Canadian Atlantic coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Peggy's Cove Lighthouse?

The lighthouse is 15 meters tall, but its light is positioned 25 meters above sea level, providing visibility up to 24 kilometers.

Can you go inside the lighthouse?

Yes, the lighthouse houses a Canada Post office during summer, and visitors can enter that part. However, the top of the tower is not accessible to the public.

Why are the rocks around the lighthouse dangerous?

The granite rocks are extremely smooth due to glacial and marine erosion, and become slippery with seawater. Large, unexpected waves pose a risk of sweeping people into the ocean.