Tuesday, 26 May 2015

Top 10 Lighthouses

Top 10 Lighthouses

For centuries lighthouses helped seafarers travel safely. Today some of them are hundreds of years old and still working. These old beacons have become a popular landmarks and are historically significant. Check out these ten lighthouses, that are posited in the wonderful surroundings.

10. Foz do Douro, Porto, Portugal

The lighthouse is situated next to the mouth of river Douro. The stormy Atlantic Ocean is captured in the pictures. When it is calm, the seaside is a lovely place to have a romantic walk, however, during storms like this it is better to stay away from the Ocean.
Why to go there?
Foz do Douro is a splendid part of Porto to visit.
When to go there?
The storms are the most possible in January and February – try to avoid them.
Top 10 Lighthouses-portugal-Veselin Malinov3
Photo by Veselin Malinov

Top 10 Lighthouses-portugal-Veselin Malinov2
Photo by Veselin Malinov
Top 10 Lighthouses-portugal-Veselin Malinov
Photo by Veselin Malinov

9. Prince Edward Island, Canada

The island mesmerizes with the poetic landscapes and tranquility. The Prince Edward Island National Park is a home for a variety of animals and species of plants. A few lighthouses on the beaches are postcard beautiful.
Why to go there?
Great sites, beaches, rich and versatile cuisine, numerous festivals and lighthouses.
When to get there?
Summers are mild and winters can be quite cold. Festivals take place all year round.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Prince Ed-Photo by Neil Taylor
Photo by Neil Taylor
Top 10 Lighthouses-Prince Ed-Photo by Anna Gorin
Photo by Anna Gorin
Top 10 Lighthouses-Prince Ed-Photo by Tom Johnston
Photo by Tom Johnston

8. Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth, Maine, USA

Built in 1791 it is the oldest lighthouse in the state. President George Washington himself asked that the local stone would be used for the constructions. Today there is a museum inside, which is open to visit for free.
Why to go there?
One of the oldest beacons in the US, surrounded with a beautiful landscape.
When to go there?
All year round. The lighthouse is open from morning until late evening.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Portland-Photo by James Kirk
Photo by James Kirk
Top 10 Lighthouses-Portland-Photo by Tom Whitney
Photo by Tom Whitney
Top 10 Lighthouses-Portland-Photo by Kevin Simpson
Photo by Kevin Simpson

7. Start Point Lighthouse, Devon, England

Built in 1836, situated on the tip of a dramatic promontory, the lighthouse is open to visit. It was designed by James Walker – a then famous engineer, who has also created 29 other towers. There are guided tours, that will introduce to the history and interesting facts about Start Point.
Why to go there?
Great views, friendly guides, interesting tours.
When to go there?
The lighthouse is open in summer.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Start Point
Photo by Unknown
Top 10 Lighthouses-Start Point-Photo by Alexander Zhegalov2
Top 10 Lighthouses-Start Point-Photo by Alexander Zhegalov

6. St. Joseph North Pier, Michigan, USA

The lighthouse was built in the 19th century and is posited at the end of the pier, which juts into glorious Lake Michigan. During winter harsh waves get frozen and create these stunning ice formations. Although the spot is beautiful all year round.
How to get there?
Walk to the pier from Tiscornia Park.
Top 10 Lighthouses-St. Joseph-Photo by Tom Gill
Photo by Tom Gill
Top 10 Lighthouses-St. Joseph (2)
Photo by Unknown
Top 10 Lighthouses-St. Joseph (1)
Photo by Unknown

5. Holland Harbor Light, Michigan, USA

A vibrant lighthouse is also known as Big Red. Located at the channel between Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa, Holland Harbour Light was built in 1872. The beacon is a popular site in the area and is best admired from Holland State Park.
Why to go there?
A favorite attraction in town, famous for its signature vivid color.
When to go there?
The lighthouse is open to visit on Tuesdays and Thursdays only.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Holland-Photo by jdevleerjr
Photo by jdevleerjr
Top 10 Lighthouses-Holland-Photo by Brent
Photo by Brent
Top 10 Lighthouses-Holland
Photo by Unknown

4. Cape Byron Light, New South Wales, Australia

Located on the easternmost point of Australia, Cape Byron is also the most powerful lighthouse in the country. It is located in a very beautiful area. Besides the great ocean views, dolphins, turtles, whales and surfers can be spotted from the point.
Why to go there?
Great views, wonderful nature, one of the most famous lighthouses in Australia.
How to get there?
By bus or car: Cape Byron is located 175 km from Brisbane.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Cape Byron-Photo by Yeu Thi Tran
Photo by Yeu Thi Tran
Top 10 Lighthouses-Cape Byron2
Photo by Unknown
Top 10 Lighthouses-Cape Byron
Photo by Unknown

3. Nugget Point, Otago, New Zealand

A 19th century’s lighthouse is situated on the steep point of Otago. The location is gorgeous: the whole shoreline is very dramatic, while down from the cliff huge rocks protrude from the water. It is one of the most popular sites in Otago.
How to get there?
A short drive by car from Kaka Point village.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Nugget
Photo by Unknown
Top 10 Lighthouses-Nugget2
Photo by Unknown

2. Fanad Peninsula, County Donegal, Ireland

Fanad lighthouse is situated in a spectacular place. It is the northernmost part of Ireland, where even the Northern Lights can be spotted sometimes. Among various landmarks on the peninsula, that include The Great Roman Wall, the landscapes are the most breathtaking thing here.
How to get there?
By plane to Donegal International Airport from Dublin or Glasgow, by bus or car. The roads are narrow and winding, but can be a fun challenge for an experienced driver.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Fanad-Photo by Gary McParland
Photo by Gary McParland
Top 10 Lighthouses-Fanad-Photo by Derek Smyth
Photo by Derek Smyth
Top 10 Lighthouses-Fanad-Photo by Stephen Emerson
Photo by Stephen Emerson

1. Tower of Hercules, La Coruña, Spain

The oldest lighthouse in the world has originated from an ancient Roman tower, which is known to be standing here since around the 2nd century. It is declared as a National Monument of Spain and is protected by UNESCO.
Why to go there?
Absolutely gorgeous ancient monument.
How to get there?
By car – there is a parking lot next to the lighthouse.
Top 10 Lighthouses-Hercules
Photo by Unknown
Top 10 Lighthouses-Hercules-Photo by Pablo Charlón
Photo by Pablo Charlón
Top 10 Lighthouses-Hercules-Photo by Carlos F Turienzo

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