The World’s Most Beautiful Lighthouses ๐
Set at the entrance to beautiful bays and natural harbors, lighthouses have prevented ships from running aground for hundreds of years. Sadly, many of them have become redundant, replaced by more efficient onboard navigational systems. However, these structures’ iconic shapes and vibrant colors make them incredibly distinctive landmarks, often found in breathtaking locations. Here, we explore the most beautiful lighthouses around the world.
10. Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse ๐๏ธ
Romantically referred to as the “Lighthouse at the End of the World,” Les Eclaireurs is situated in a breathtaking spot in Tierra del Fuego, right at the southern tip of Argentina. Lying on a small rocky island in the middle of the Beagle Channel, its red and white tower stands out against the majestic mountains that rise around it. Guarding the sea entrance to Ushuaia since it was erected in 1920, this lovely lighthouse is now a popular tourist attraction.
9. Galle Lighthouse ๐ด
Located within the ancient walls of Galle Fort, the lighthouse has protected the surrounding waters since it was first erected in 1848. While it is the oldest lighthouse in the whole of Sri Lanka, the current lighthouse’s bright white walls only date to 1939 when it was rebuilt after a devastating fire. Nestled on the country’s south coast, its magnificent location at the entrance to Galle Harbor, with palm trees all around it, makes it one of the most picturesque and photographed landmarks in the city.
8. Makapu’u Point Lighthouse ๐
Perched upon the eastern tip of Oahu in Hawaii, Makapu’u Point Lighthouse is set in one of the most spectacular locations imaginable. Despite only reaching 14 meters in height, the light from its tower can be seen far and wide thanks to its prominent setting atop a rocky cliff. Coupled with the bright blue waters of the Pacific below, these enormous volcanic cliffs make for an impressive sight with the lighthouse hidden amongst them.
7. Lindesnes Lighthouse ๐ซ๏ธ
Set at the southernmost tip of Norway, Lindesnes is the oldest lighthouse in the country. While the current lighthouse, with its bright white walls and red top, was only constructed in 1915, the earliest version of the light station dates back to 1656. It has demarcated the North Sea from the Baltic Sea and warned sailors about Norway’s perilous coastline ever since. Commandeered by the Germans in World War II, there are now trenches, tunnels, and a small fort for visitors to explore.
6. Cabo de Sรฃo Vicente Lighthouse ๐พ
Remarkably, a light has warned approaching ships about the treacherous waters of Cabo de Sรฃo Vicente since 1430 when monks erected a beacon on the clifftop. It was only in 1790, however, that the first proper lighthouse was built. It features some delightful and distinctive architecture, with its white 32-meter-high hexagonal tower being its defining feature. Located at the end of the peninsula in Portugal, the lighthouse overlooks a lot of wild and wonderful coastline that once struck fear into sailors’ hearts.
5. Tower of Hercules ๐๏ธ
Ever since the 2nd century AD, the Tower of Hercules has imperiously watched over Spain’s North Atlantic coastline, making it the oldest lighthouse still in use today. Such is its age that it is believed to have been modeled after the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. First built by the Romans, the lighthouse’s 57-meter-high sturdy and square tower was repaired and renovated in 1791. In addition to its astounding age, the Tower of Hercules’ scenic location on a peninsula in Galicia certainly makes it one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world.
4. Heceta Head Lighthouse ๐ฒ
Set in a prominent and picturesque spot along the Oregon coast, Heceta Head Lighthouse is a fine sight overlooking the Pacific Ocean with dramatic-looking rocks below. Its gleaming white tower is backed by verdant forests that tumble down the hillside. First lit in 1894, the lighthouse is named after Bruno Heceta, the Spanish explorer who sailed up and down the Pacific Northwest in the 18th century. Now a designated state scenic viewpoint, this lighthouse is well worth a visit for its commanding views of the Oregon coast and the Pacific Ocean.
3. Chania Lighthouse โ
Lying at the entrance to Chania’s historic harbor, this delightful lighthouse is not only the oldest in Greece and the Mediterranean but in the entire world. First built by the Venetians towards the end of the 16th century, it was subsequently repaired and reimagined by the Egyptians, Ottomans, and later by the Greeks. The lighthouse boasts an illustrious and interesting history, as evidenced by its unique design reminiscent of a mosque’s minaret.
2. Portland Head Light ๐ชจ
Looking out over the wild, wet, and windy waters of the Atlantic, Portland Head Light has guided sailors back to safety ever since 1791. The historic lighthouse is set on a craggy clifftop in Cape Elizabeth, just to the south of the busy Portland Harbor. Reaching almost 25 meters in height, its white conical tower stands out delightfully against the desolate and rugged coastline that surrounds it. Although now automated, visitors can stop by its adjoining maritime museum to learn about its captivating past and hear the tragic tales of many ships wrecked along the Maine coastline.
1. Formentor Lighthouse ๐
One of the most famous and photographed landmarks in Majorca, the Formentor Lighthouse lies on the northernmost tip of the Balearic Island. Towering some 210 meters above the sea, the lighthouse is perched atop a lofty cliff with steep drops below. Its beacon of light has warned sailors about the dangerous Majorca coastline since 1863. Due to the outstanding natural beauty around it and fantastic views over the Mediterranean, Formentor Lighthouse is not to be missed.
These remarkable lighthouses not only serve a critical role in maritime safety but also offer some of the most stunning and awe-inspiring views one can experience. Whether you are a history buff, an avid traveler, or a photography enthusiast, these beautiful lighthouses provide an unforgettable glimpse into the past while offering spectacular natural scenery.