Fisgard
Lighthouse |
Fisgard Lighthouse
in Victoria is nationally important as the first lighthouse on the
rocky Pacific west coast of Canada. Built by the British when Vancouver
Island was still a crown colony, Fisgard Lighthouse has stood as a
symbol of sovereignty since its construction in 1860.
Along with nearby
Race Rocks Lighthouse in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Fisgard still
provides a welcome guide for mariners to Royal Roads anchorage and
the Esquimalt naval base (CFB Esquimalt), and also points the way
to Victoria harbour for merchant ships and recreational vessels.
The former keeper's house now contains exhibits, artifacts and display
panels. Access to Fisgard Lighthouse is through the large grounds
of historic Fort Rodd Hill, a coast artillery fort overlooking the
entrance to Esquimalt Harbour, built in the late 1890s to protect
Victoria and the Royal Naval base.
As you walk
along the trails, look for some of the year-round residents who
call Fort Rodd Hill home, including Colombian Black-tailed deer,
grey squirrels, raccoons and numerous bird species. The waters around
Fisgard Lighthouse are frequented by harbour seals and the occasional
sea lion.
Fort Rodd Hill
and Fisgard Lighthouse are 14 km from downtown Victoria.
These two adjoining National Historic Sites can be accessed off
Highway 1, take the Colwood
exit or off Highway 1A, onto Ocean Boulevard.
Please note
that pets and bicycles are not allowed in the sites.
Hours
February 15 - October 31: 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
November 1 - February 14: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Contact Details
603 Fort Rodd Hill Road
Colwood
Victoria
BC V9C 2W8
Tel: (250) 478-5849
Fax: (250) 478-2816
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