5 Lighthouses Worth Visiting in Gaspésie

With over 700 km of coastline, it is not surprising that Gaspésie is home to 14 lighthouses! Here are 5 that are particularly worth visiting.

An iconic landmark in Gaspésie, the La Martre Lighthouse is painted entirely red, with the exception of a white stripe on its north side. Another notable feature: the staircase leading to the top is straight up rather than in the usual spiral. Visit the lighthouse to climb to the top and find out more! You can also tour the museum on site to learn more about lighthouses.

From the top of this lighthouse, dating from 1907, admire a beautiful panoramic view. In the museum where an interpreter guide will tell you the history of the village, the lighthouse, salmon fishing and the paper mill. You will find at the house of the assistant guardian a souvenir shop. Camping also on site. 

Cap-de-la-Madeleine Lighthouse. Photo: Sébastien St-Jean

The unique Pointe-à-la-Renommée Lighthouse is well worth the short detour on a gravel road to visit it. Located on a mountainside, the lighthouse offers a stunning view of the sea. Its claim to fame is that it is the most travelled lighthouse in the world, since it was returned here in 1997 from the Port of Québec after 20 years of exile. This site was also home to North America’s first maritime radio station, the Marconi station, built in 1904.

Pointe-à-la-Renommée Lighthouse. Photo: Sébastien St-Jean

At 34 metres high, the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse is the tallest in Canada! Located on a cliff, it offers a magnificent view of the surrounding area. With a little luck, you may spot whales in the distance.

Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse. Photo: Mathieu Dupuis

Overlooking Chaleur Bay, the Bonaventure Lighthouse is sometimes open to visitors during peak tourist season. Made entirely out of wood, this four-sided building is representative of the small wooden lighthouses built in the early 20th century. Even if you cannot visit the lighthouse, the site, which is near the marina and a beach, is well worth the trip.

Bonaventure Lighthouse. Photo: Mathieu Dupuis

In addition to the 14 lighthouses that stand along the Gaspé coast, several other sites and buildings highlight the Gaspésie maritime heritage. Discover them with our Lighthouse Tour.

Discover the beautiful lighthouses that dot the coasts of Gaspésie!

See also: 

• 5 Historic Maritime Treasures
• 5 Historical Walking Tours
• History and Built Heritage in Percé