Name and Location

The Gabarus Lighthouse stands at 128 Harbour Point Road, Gabarus, Nova Scotia, Canada (B1K 3S9), along the rugged coastline of Cape Breton.

Construction and History

The Gabarus Lighthouse was constructed in 1860 by the British government to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The original structure was designed by architect David Stirling and built by contractor James McDonald. Over the years, the lighthouse underwent several renovations and restorations to ensure its continued operation.

Architecture and Materials

The Gabarus Lighthouse is a traditional lighthouse design with a square base and a tapered tower reaching 35 feet (10.67 meters) above sea level. The structure is built from local granite and topped with a characteristic red-and-white striped daymark, visible for miles at sea.

Light and Navigation

The Gabarus Lighthouse originally featured a third-order Fresnel lens that emitted a fixed white light with a range of approximately 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers). The lighthouse was automated in the mid-20th century, and its original light source was replaced with a modern LED beacon. The focal height is approximately 50 feet (15.24 meters), making it an important navigational aid for ships in the region.

Accessibility and Visiting

The Gabarus Lighthouse is located near the village of Gabarus, which offers limited amenities for visitors. The nearest town, Inverness, is approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) away and provides a range of accommodations, including hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and camping facilities.

Notable Views and Landscape

Visitors can explore the lighthouse's interior and learn about its rich history through interpretive displays. The surrounding coastline and the Gulf of St. Lawrence offer stunning views.

Technical and Operational Details

• Latitude: 45.8432029° N
• Elevation: 35 feet (10.67 meters)
• Focal height: 50 feet (15.24 meters)

Further Information

For more information about the Gabarus Lighthouse or to plan your visit, please contact the local tourist information office or the National Historic Sites and Monuments Board.