The Cape was initially inhabited by the Wampanong people who lived here for centuries before the area started to come to the attention of the early European explorers. As you can see from the map- the Cape juts out which made it a landing point to the continent for many of these early visitors. It was actually the location where the Pilgrims first landed before deciding that the land was too sandy and leaving across the bay to Plymouth. That was not without having first found water and food and skirmished with the natives.

More and more settlers came to the area and fishing became a major part of the area’s appeal. Whaling was also an important aspect of the local economy but the supply of near-shore whales diminished in the mid 1700s. Meanwhile, the new settlers removed vast swathes of forests to build homes, farmland and graze sheep.

It was not long before the locals started to recognise the area’s rich potential for tourism- the original Coyote Trip perhaps. In 1848- the first train came from Boston and eventually ended up extending to Provincetown. The real game-changer for tourism was the rebuilding of the Cape Cod Canal in 1928 when the federal government took over and established three bridges to link the Cape to the East.

Whilst, it may be different to how it began- the natural charms of the Cape remain to this day. There’s still a whole series of charming, small villages, beaches, forest and dunes to enjoy. The fishing industry is still going strong and you can enjoy the fruits of the their labour at numerous specialist seafood restaurants. The area has also become associated with American high society – boosted in no small part – by JFK’s summering in the area.

• There’s many impressive lighthouses all along the coast and they often have fascinating stories to tell of a bygone era. Near Provincetown you can visit the Race Point Beach and it’s charming lighthouse which was built in 1816 and is one of U.S’s listed historical places.
• Cycling in this area is a true joy with a whole series of routes for all abilities. Whatever route you make- you’ll be guaranteed stunning views.
• Beech Forest is very close to Provincetown and is a lovely spot to walk and imagine life before the settlers arrived.

There are over 14 lighthouses in Cape Cod making it the most lighthouse filled county in the country.

The water lags behind the season so you’ll get freezing temperatures at the start of summer and warmer ones at the start of the winter!

You only have 2,000 years to enjoy the area as geologists believe it will eventually be completely submerged- get there whilst you can…