New Year’s resolutions shouldn’t feel like items on a to-do list, they should infuse your life with passion and excitement for all that is to come. We invite you to begin 2016 by resolving to have more experiences that will eventually become beautiful memories. Book a long weekend at any one of the Falmouth Bed and Breakfasts and you’ll have a bevy of amazing experiences to choose from. One experience we highly recommend is a self guided lighthouse tour! It’s the perfect way to spend a day. Travel from Wood’s Hole to Provincetown and enjoy some of the most beautiful views on Cape. Here are a few of the must-sees along the way.
Nobska Lighthouse, 1828
Start with one of Falmouth’s crowning jewels, the Nobska Lighthouse (pictured to the left) which sits 87 feet above sea level. Since 1828, when the original lighthouse was first constructed, this has been a “familiar beacon for all those that go down to the sea in ships”. It has also remained a familiar beacon for all those who travel to and from Wood’s Hole! Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views that this icon has to offer.
Sandy Neck Light was first established in 1826. The current tower was built in 1857 and strengthened in the 1880s. It was discontinued in 1931, replaced by a skeleton tower, which was discontinued in 1952. The light was relit as a private aid to navigation in 2007.
Chatham Light, known as Twin Lights before 1923, is near the “elbow” of the Cape. The only thing you’ll love more than the beauty of this incredible structure is the history. Inn keeper Samuel Nye was appointed by President Jefferson in 1808.
Nauset Light,1838 is always a crowd pleaser. The historic lighthouse in Eastham was rescued from the edge of a sixty foot high eroding cliff in November of 1996. The tower has moved approximately 300 feet to a new location across the road and has now been restored. Knowing the back story makes seeing the tower in person that much more impressive.
Race Point, 1816 was the third lighthouse on Cape Cod The original light was a 25 foot rubblestone tower that featured one of the earliest rotating beacons, which distinguished it from others on Cape Cod. In 1858 the light got a fourth order lens and, in 1874, a second keeper’s quarters. In 1875, after significant deterioration of the original tower, it was replaced with an iron tower lined with brick. The original keeper’s house was rebuilt as part of the project. The station was electrified in 1957. The larger keeper’s house was removed in 1960 and the other was updated. Enjoy the unbeatable views Race Point has to offer, the last stop on the Cape!
Begin your new year with a sight seeing trip up the Cape. Take a bunch of photos and create your very own ‘Lighthouses of Cape Cod’ book! At the end of the day, return to your cozy B&B for a hot drink on a cool night! Nothing will beat the memories you’ll take home with you!