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St Francis Bay accommodation. Cape St. Francis Lighthouse is a beautiful white building and is the focal point of the town. Named after the patron saint, St. Francis, this architectural marvel was completed in 1878. It was engineered by Joseph Flack, a civil engineer who was employed by the Cape Colonial Government, and who also partook in the building of many of the structures on Robben Island. However, he unfortunately passed away mid-way through the completion of the lighthouse project on 14th November 1876. The project was consequently resumed by WB Hays on 29th November of the same year. The lighthouse was lit for the first time on 4th July 1878.
Standing 27.75m off the ground, its focal plane is 36m above sea level making its light range is 28 nautical miles. The intensity of the light has changed over the years. It started with a three wick burner with the intensity of 15,000 candles and flashed once in every 20 seconds. A number of years later, in 1906, it was changed to a petroleum vapour burner with the power of 120,000 candles and it flashed once every 5 seconds. Now the light power is of 2,750,000 candles and it flashes every 5 seconds.
Cape St Francis Lighthouse
But even with such brilliance of light, a number of shipwrecks have still occurred. A particularly infamous wreck was that of “The Lady Head” in 1959 which was wrecked at the mouth of the Kromme River. It is believed that the swans that inhibit the bay came from that ship.
Ultimately, this lighthouse has become a favorite tourist spot in the Cape, and is certainly well worth a visit.
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Things to do near Cape St Francis Lighthouse
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A wonderful reserve on the tip of Cape St Francis, and home to many a species of sea-bird.
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According to the Golf Digest December 2007 edition, the St. Francis Links is the best new course in South Africa. Jack Nicklaus converted this superb piece of Mother Nature into something unique and rewarding. It’s the place to be for all golf enthusiasts as they’ll get an experience of their l... [ read more... ] |
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Any golfing enthusiast visiting the South African Eastern Cape should not go without playing a couple of rounds at the St. Francis Bay Golf Club. The golf club started as a private 9-hole course which was opened by Leighton Hulett in 1975. It underwent several developmental changes over the years a... [ read more... ] |
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Tranquil and scenic cruises along the canals of St Francis Bay and the Kromme River estuary tailored to suit the individual requirements.
Suggested cruises are :
Sunset canal cruise -R120 per person
Kromme River outing , half day including braai and local beers and ciders -R480 per person
Geelhout ... [ read more... ] |
Accommodation near Cape St Francis Lighthouse
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Surrounded by nature reserves and unspoilt beaches Cape St Francis Lifestyle offers upmarket beach accommodation in Village Break as well as affordable beach accommodation in Club Break. Ideal for families or friends travelling together. ... [ read more... ] |
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This charming coastal village on the Sunshine Coast captures the heart of all its visitors and is where this establishment is situated in its tranquil setting just 30 meters from the water’s edge of the warm Indian Ocean. Take 21 km off the main Garden Route to this unique, sophisticated, yet wil... [ read more... ] |
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Summerhill offers modern, spacious & fully equipped self-catering apartments. Centrally situated in St Francis Bay we are walking distance to the village centre & a 2 minute walk to the beautiful main swimming beach.... [ read more... ] |
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Experience the beauty, tranquillity and friendly hospitality of St Francis Bay in laid-back luxury at Sandals, ideally situated just 150 metres from the main beach. Sensational surf, pristine beaches, rugged coastline & indigenous fynbos create a perfect setting for relaxation & play in St Francis B... [ read more... ] |
