Cape Spear: Where History Meets the Atlantic

Cape Spear, the most easterly point in North America, has been an important navigational aid since Newfoundland's early exploration. Originally named "Cabo da Esperança" by Portuguese sailors, it later became "Cap d'Espoir" in French before finally being named Cape Spear by the English.The original lighthouse, built in 1836, is Newfoundland's oldest surviving lighthouse. Restored to its 1839 appearance, it showcases the life of a 19th-century lightkeeper and their family. A new concrete lighthouse was constructed in 1955, incorporating the original light.During World War II, Cape Spear's strategic location made it a key point in the Battle of the Atlantic. A coastal defense battery, known as Fort Cape Spear, was established with bunkers, underground passages, and two 10-inch guns to protect convoys from German U-boats. Today, the remains of the bunkers serve as a reminder of the war's impact.Visitors can explore the historic lighthouse, wander the WWII bunker complex, and enjoy the natural environment. Cape Spear is also an excellent spot for seeing seabirds, whales, and icebergs during the spring and summer months. The East Coast Hiking Trail passes through Cape Spear, providing access to some of the island's best hiking trails.