The lighthouse
Red and white on the rock.
Dennis G. Jarvis — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Dennis G. Jarvis — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Dennis G. Jarvis — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Dennis G. Jarvis — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Balou46 — CC BY-SA 4.0
Peggys Cove is a small fishing village on the eastern shore of St. Margarets Bay, 43 km southwest of downtown Halifax. It is known for its red-and-white lighthouse on granite rock, one of the most photographed structures in Atlantic Canada and among the busiest sights in Nova Scotia. The place was recorded in 1766 as Peggs Harbour. It probably takes its name from St. Margarets Bay, Peggy being a nickname for Margaret. Many stories surround the name, the best known a legend about the sole survivor of a shipwreck at Halibut Rock. The first lighthouse went up in 1868, and it remains in use under the Canadian Coast Guard. The lighthouse stands on a broad outcrop of granite under open sky, and visitors can walk on the rocks around it. Behind it in the village are timber wharves, fishermen's colourful houses on stilts, small boats and heaps of rope and lobster traps. On still days the colours reflect in the calm water of the cove. It is 32 km in a straight line from Halifax, so you need a car or tour. Keep away from wet black rocks, as big waves can sweep people out to sea, so follow the signs. Come early or before sunset to avoid tour buses. The air is cool and damp, so bring a jacket. Respect people's homes, as this is a living village.
Red and white on the rock.
Stilt houses and boats.
A broad expanse to walk.
Eastern shore of St. Margarets Bay, 43 km southwest of Halifax
Yes, wet black rocks are slippery and waves can sweep people away, so keep clear.
Early morning or before sunset, to avoid tour buses.