Be the first to see the sunrise in North America

While in St. John’s, you should wake up before dawn to witness the sunrise at least one morning. Believe us, it is totally worth it.

St. John’s is only a few kilometers away from the easternmost point in Canada, which means it is the first city to see the soft golden light of the sunrise on the continent.

WHERE TO GO?

The easternmost point in Canada is Cape Spear and its famous lighthouse. It is a 20-minute drive from the Alt Hotel St. John’s. You can park your car there and take in the view.

On the way to Cape Spear, just a short 5 to 10 minutes diversion brings you to the small fishing village of Petty Harbour Maddon Cove and there is a very well known restaurant called Chafe’s Landing. If you're still around for lunch, stop there to taste their fish and chips.

A 10-minute drive from the hotel will lead you to Signal Hill National Historic Site. Parking is available. Not only will you see the beautiful sunrise, but you will also be rewarded with an impressive view over St. John’s. You can walk up there from the hotel, but it will take approximatively 45 minutes.

WHEN TO WAKE UP?

On April 22, the sun will rise at 6am and one minute earlier each other day until June 20, the date of the summer solstice (at 5:59 on April 23, at 5:58 on April 24, etc).

The night before your expedition, check out the exact sunrise time here:

CLICK HERE TO CHECK TIME

NOT AN EARLY RISER?

If getting out of bed while it is still dark outside does not enchant you but you would still like to see the sunrise, book a room with harbor view at Alt Hotel St. John’s. That way, you can observe the first sunrays over The Narrows while still comfortably in bed.

You could also get out on our patio, which is facing the harbour. Grab a coffee, your sunglasess, head out on to the terrace and enjoy the sunrise!

Photo Copyright: Newfoundland and Labrador / Barrett & MacKay Photo