Cape Spear

Watch the Sunrise on a Continent

Just 25 minute’s drive away from St John’s is the Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, the province’s oldest lighthouse and the most eastern point of Canada. Restored to its former appearance, it’s the ideal spot to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic, the first sunrise over the country, and notwithstanding Greenland, over North America too. Watch for whales and icebergs, and take a walk along the dramatic coastline.

Length of Trip : 2-3 hours. You’ll want to be at Cape Spear before sunrise, and walk around a little bit once the yolk has cracked the sky. Providing you’re not sitting in the fog.

Cost : Free!

Best time to go : On a clear morning

Wheelchair friendly : Yes

Family friendly : Yes

Where to eat : Grab breakfast back in St John’s at the Rocket Bakery, The Bagel Café (246 Duckworth Street) or Cora’s (215 Water Street)

Official Site : www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/nl/spear/index.aspx

Where to Stay : We had a great stay at the Murray Premises Hotel in St John’s

Getting There : From St John’s: drive west on Water Street to Leslie Street. Turn left at the lights and go over 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 of Canada.

Note from Robin : On Route 11, watch out for moose. They love jumping into the road this early in the morning. Mind the warnings close the sea, it does get very rough. Definitely watch the weather for a clear day, where you might even see icebergs and whales.

Great Canadian Trails