Cape Race is at the most southern point of the Irish Loop on the Avalon.
It is 2 hour drive from St. John’s south along the eastern coastline. You will come into Portugal Cove South and stop in at the Edge of Avalon Interpretation Centre.
Cape Race has been found on maps dating back to 1502. It marks first landfall after a transatlantic sea voyage.
The first lighthouse was built in 1856. It was replaced by the Canadian government in 1907. A small community, including children lived out on the cape to keep the lighthouse, fog alarm, telegraph and radio running. Today, Light Keepers still live on the cape, working 28 day shifts, year round.
The Myrick Interpretation Centre contains displays that tell the story of the Cape and its importance. The staff are very friendly and proud of their long connection to the Cape and surrounding area.
Cape Race received the first distress signals from the Titanic the night of April 14, 1912. The following days were spent receiving and sending telegraph messages as the world watched on in horror.
Support Bob’s Newfoundland and use our Amazon shopping links: