Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse Travel Guide

The Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse, a National Historic Site, has stood as a sentinel on the Gaspé Peninsula since 1858. Marking the transition from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the St. Lawrence River, this 34-meter (112-foot) tower is the tallest lighthouse in Canada. Samuel Champlain named the area for the wild roses he found there, and the site has witnessed significant historical events, including the spotting of the British fleet before the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759.The lighthouse was constructed between 1854 and 1858, using local limestone and firebrick. Its walls are over seven feet thick at the base, tapering to three feet at the top. The original lighting apparatus, installed in 1858, used a fixed white light produced by a first-order Fresnel lens. Over the years, the light source evolved from whale oil to kerosene, petroleum vapor, and finally, electricity.Visitors can explore the lighthouse and learn about its history through guided tours and exhibits. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Cap-Bon-Ami, and the mountains of Forillon National Park. The surrounding area provides scenic paths for strolling and enjoying the coastal scenery. The lighthouse is open to visitors from July 1st to August 31st, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Various access options are available, including site access, virtual tours via digital tablet, and guided tours with a lighthouse climb.