Shining a light in the darkness for hundreds of years, there are few places as romantic and emotive as a lighthouse.
1. THE KALLUR LIGHTHOUSE, FAROE ISLANDS, EUROPE (pictured above)
This stunning lighthouse is perched on the edge of one of the Northern Faroe Islands and is a true adventurer’s destination. You’ll need to take a ferry from the already remote town of Klaksvík, a short drive, and then a 45-minute hike along the rolling green hills to this solitary structure. The walk is suitable for all ages, and is a must see of this magical landscape.
www.visitfaroeislands.com
2. HOOK LIGHTHOUSE, IRELAND
Built about 800 years ago by a medieval knight, Hook Lighthouse is proudly the oldest lighthouse in the world. It sits atop the end of the Hook peninsula, where visitors can experience historical guided tours, take stunning photos of the Irish coast, or view the abundant wildlife offshore. If you find yourself craving more history, a 5-hour drive west will land you at the gleaming white Valentia Island Lighthouse, where you can see fossilised Tetrapod dinosaur footprints from the top of the tower. www.hookheritage.ie
3. CAPE POINT LIGHTHOUSE, SOUTH AFRICA
This lighthouse sits at the edge of one of the most historically dangerous points in sailing history. Aptly named the Cape of Storms, this World Heritage Site is known by sailors for its perilous weather and treacherous rocks that have caused shipwrecks for centuries. Take a visit to this stunning landmark to immerse yourself in a piece of nautical history, enjoy the diverse national park, and breathe in the fresh ocean air.
www.capepoint.co.za
4. HECETA HEAD LIGHTHOUSE, OREGON, USA
The Most Photographed Lighthouse in the US, the Heceta Head Lighthouse has been guiding ships safely past the west coast of America for over 100 years. This picturesque landmark offers an idyllic getaway at their lighthouse Bed and Breakfast. Cosy up in the Light Keeper’s home for a night along the Oregon coast, and enjoy a full seven-course breakfast in the morning.
www.hecetalighthouse.com
5. TOURLITIS LIGHTHOUSE, GREECE
Tourlitis Lighthouse sits atop a rock in the Aegean sea with a winding staircase that leads into the waves. The solitary structure and mysterious steps give it a magical look, as if it belongs in a time long forgotten. It is the only lighthouse in all of Europe that was built on a rock in the sea and stands opposite the Venetian castle in Andros. Its mysterious beauty has made it the most popular lighthouse in all of Greece.
www.andros.travel
6. CAPE OTWAY LIGHTSTATION, AUSTRALIA
Offering a getaway unlike any other, you can choose from three different overnight stays at the Cape Otway Lightstation: The Lightkeeper’s Cottage, Lighthouse Lodge, or the Lightstation studio. All three offer stunning views, spacious rooms, and a sea-side vacation you’ll never forget. If you aren’t planning on spending the night, the landmark itself has a range of activities that sets it apart from your average lighthouse including daily history talks, an Aboriginal Talking Hut, WWII bunker, and even a Whale Interpretation site.
www.lightstation.com
7. RUA REIDH LIGHTHOUSE, SCOTLAND
This peaceful lighthouse is nestled on the shores of Loch Ewe, facing the isle of Skye. The attached Bed and Breakfast has no mobile signal, wi-fi, or TVs, so it is the ultimate getaway for those who wish to take a break from the cluttered craziness of life and enjoy the quiet joys of nature. Instead of fretting over your everyday worries, discover the ancient woodland at Loch an Draing, stroll along the cliffs to the beautiful beaches of Camus Mor, or visit the rockpools in the bay in search of sea otters, whales, porpoises, and other incredible native species.
www.stayatalighthouse.co.uk
This article was originally published under the title A Beacon in the Dark in Issue 16 – A Creative Spark. You can purchase previous issues and enjoy more enchanting content here.
