Cape Forchu’s famous lighthouse is a great place to spend an afternoon, or arrive later in the evening to catch a sunset.
Located in Yarmouth County, Cape Forchu Lighthouse shares its name with the community of Cape Forchu.
Here are four reasons why you should visit Cape Forchu this summer!
The Lighthouse
Getting the elephant in the room out of the way first, the biggest reason to visit Cape Forchu is to take in the spectacular lighthouse, which was the last staffed lighthouse in Nova Scotia.
The lighthouse is open to the public and a set of steel steps allows you to climb to the top of the 22.9 m high lighthouse, to get a great view of both Inner False Harbour and Outer False Harbour. The Cape Forchu Lighthouse nestled in the rocky harbour presents an incredibly picturesque view, particularly at sunrise, and sunset.
It is also an excellent spot for stargazing and night photography.
The Nearby Stunning Beaches
If you’re a beach person, then the nearby False Harbour Beach and John’s Cove Beach at Cape Forchu offer a great experience. Great swimming waters, warm sand and large dunes are sure to keep you and the whole family entertained for hours! Located less than a kilometre from the Cape Forchu Lighthouse, it’s easier to leave your car at the lighthouse parking lot and walk.
Walk Around Leif Erikson Park
Operated by the Municipality of Yarmouth, the Leif Erikson Park is named after a Viking explorer, who is believed to be the first European to set foot on North American soil. The Leif Erikson contains more than 19 acres of carefully manicured and maintained grounds outside the lighthouse. This includes kilometres of walking trails, picnic tables and more!
Eat at the Keeper’s Kitchen!
Eating at Cape Forchu can be found at the Keeper’s Kitchen. There’s seafood, pizza, baked goods, tea, coffee and local craft beer and wine available. Delectable sea-based dishes are a highlight of eating at Cape Forchu, and the outdoor patio seals the deal with what promises to be a fantastic dining experience at one of the world’s most beautiful shorelines.
Hours of operation are: Monday: 11AM-3PM, Wednesday thru Sunday: 11AM-5PM. Closed on Tuesdays.
Cape Forchu Lighthouse Trip Planning
A trip to Cape Forchu is a great way to spend a summer’s day.
While you may not think of visiting anywhere near the sea in the wintertime, due to harrowing winds and the probability of snowfall – you’d be surprised how inspiring and beautiful Cape Forchu can be in the winter.
When: Lighthouse: 9 am to 6 pm daily during summer season
Grounds: The Leif Erikson Trail and lighthouse grounds remain open year-round
Where:
1856, NS-304, Cape Forchu, NS B5A 5G7