Flanked by pounding surf at its front and hugged by the Flinders Chase National Park, the Cape Borda Lightstation is a scenic outpost in Kangaroo Island’s northwest corner. The area is steeped in maritime history; a testament to a time when travelling by sea was the norm.
The focal point of Cape Borda is, of course, the uniquely shaped square lighthouse. The historic edifice has been standing strong against the elements for 155 years, surrounded by Lighthouse Keeper cottages and a museum highlighting the region's history – you can even read the diaries of early lighthouse keepers, including firsthand accounts of the hardships their families faced.
Shedding light on maritime history
Still in use, the lighthouse retains one of only three "Deville lantern" rooms in Australia. The lighthouse cannon – once used to warn seafarers of foggy conditions – is fired once a day at the traditional hour of 1PM. Join the 12:30 tour to time in with the cannon firing and, if you’re lucky, popular park ranger and local larrikin Mick might be at the helm.
Take a one kilometre Cliff Top hike through Cape Borda’s rock gardens to the stone lookout where you might spot pods of whales and dolphins. Harveys Return is another way to get your hike on, following the original route used by lightkeepers who hauled their supplies from the coast’s edge.
Take your visit to the Cape Borda Lightstation to a new level by staying the night in a charming lighthouse keeper’s cottage. If you enjoyed your visit to the Cape Borda Lightstation and are making your way around to the eastern side of KI, call in on South Australia's first lighthouse at Cape Willoughby.
