Once we went to St John in Newfoundland, we wanted to explore the area and discover another great National Historic Site, and Cape Spear is amazing.
How to get to Cape Spear?
Once in St. John’s, travel west on Water Street to Leslie Street. Turn left at the lights and cross the bridge to the stop sign. Go straight through the intersection and continue for 15 km—you are now on Route 11, also known as Cape Spear Drive. At the end of the road is Cape Spear National Historic Site.
Why should you make a stop at Cape Spear?
On Canada’s most easterly point of land, the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador offers a glimpse into the lives of 19th-century lighthouse keepers and their families—Marvel at icebergs, migrating whales, and hunting seabirds on this rough Atlantic coast.
Cape Spear on your own:
First, grab a little guide at the Kiosk/ Gift Shop to know where to walk and follow the path.
-Cape Spear is famously located in Canada’s most extreme eastern corner. Follow the path from the Information Kiosk to an ocean lookout that provides the most unbelievable views of the Atlantic Ocean.
For early birds, this is a great place to watch the sunrise!
-Explore Fort Cape Spear:
Walk through the underground remains of a Second World War coastal defense battery. Explore the exhibits to learn about the life of a gunner at Cape Spear and check out the two ten-inch cannons that were once used to protect the entrance to St. John’s Harbour.
-Nature watching:
The waters off the coast of Cape Spear create a unique environment for some fascinating natural wonders!
Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes on the sea to spot some amazing Atlantic animals, such as humpback whales, minke whales, northern gannets, and puffins. From June to August, you may even get the chance to see an iceberg!
We didn’t have the chance to see icebergs, but we are planning to get back there to catch some.
-Visit the Historic Lighthouse:
Head to the historic Cape Spear Lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Let our guides sweep you away into the simple, isolated life of a light-keeping family in the 1830s. Hear tales of the Cantwell family, who, for generations, lived and worked on this most easterly point of land. Let yourself be charmed by this historic structure’s period furnishings and unique design.
-You even have some trails you could hike, so go for it!!!
Enjoy your time in Cape Spear!!!!
