Cultural sights of Australia. Beautiful places in Australia. Spiritual home of Indigenous Australians

Tourism does not provide for any restrictions and prohibitions in terms of visiting certain states. It all depends on the financial condition and personal preferences. They are known to many for their large cities. However, Australia remains a mystery to most tourists. And some of them don't even know what to see there. And there are many interesting things in this country.

Of the architectural sights, the building erected in 1898 in honor of Queen Victoria is interesting. This building is listed as a cultural heritage site. Now there is a large shopping center inside the building. Tourists can visit fashion boutiques or jewelry stores.

Once inside, you can not only buy the necessary goods and souvenirs, but also see large hanging clocks, as well as look at a small exhibition of royal clothes.

  • Where is: in the business district of Sydney.
  • Work time: from Monday to Wednesday, as well as on Friday - from 9:00 to 18:00, Thursday - from 9:00 to 21:00, Saturday - from 10:00 to 16:00, Sunday - from 11:00 to 16: 00.
  • Entrance: free.

It is in Australia that tourists can go to the zoo, which is named after Steve Irwin. This man had been catching crocodiles for his parent's reptile park from an early age. As he grew older, he did much to develop wildlife documentaries, often finding himself in extreme situations.

Now the 40-hectare zoo houses many different species of animals. Its territory is divided into separate pavilions. The central stadium deserves special attention, where a show with crocodiles, birds and snakes takes place.

A well-known architectural landmark is the huge Anglican Cathedral in Melbourne. The building is a majestic structure with a unique finish and elegant shape. It houses one of the largest organs made in the 19th century.

St. Paul's Cathedral was erected on the site where the first services were originally held immediately after the founding of the city. Before the advent of the parish church, there was a market here.

While in Sydney, it is worth visiting the tallest building in the city. It is also the second tallest tower in all of Australia. The height of the object, built in 1981, is 309 meters. Anyone can get inside. The building is open to the public.

At the top there is a viewing platform with a good restaurant. It will be possible to rise there on one of three high-speed elevators. With their help, tourists find themselves at the top in just 40 seconds.

Along the Pacific coast stretches the Great Ocean Road, the construction of which began back in 1919, when Australian soldiers came from the war. During the work practically no special equipment was used. Everything was done with hand tools.

The large construction was completed in 1932, after which it became one of the major military memorials. Over time, a route for pedestrians with a length of 104 km was opened along the highway.

Visitors to Australia can visit one of the largest aquariums in the world. It is home to many different animals. Its territory is divided into separate sections, and this is done according to the geographical principle. The most interesting is the collection of sharks - the largest on the planet.

The entrance to the building is easy to find. When visiting, you will have to go through the mouth of a huge shark. It should be borne in mind that the aquarium has quite impressive dimensions, so it will take a lot of time to fully examine it.

In the vicinity of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta park there is a huge mountain, which is a solid stone, which is the largest on the planet. Its height reaches 348 m. If desired, tourists can climb up with a guide or just take a walk next to the massive cliff.

In ancient times, a stone lay in the middle of a large lake and acted as a kind of island. Now it is surrounded by desert, and rock art flaunts on its surface.

The Harbor Bridge is one of the largest bridges in the world. Not only cars, but also pedestrians, cyclists, and rail transport move along it. It was opened in 1932 to provide communication between the North Bank and the central part of the city.

The length of the arch span is 503 meters, and its total length is 1149 meters. The structure weighs about 54 thousand tons. The steel parts of the structure are connected with rivets. Mighty towers located on opposite banks act as holding elements.

An unusual rock formation can surprise any tourist, as it has the shape of a huge wave. The length of this object, created by nature itself, is 110 meters. The alternation of light and dark rocks enhances the similarity with the sea wave.

There is an assumption that the rock took this shape due to deformation under the influence of winds and precipitation. To avoid further destruction of this composition, a retaining wall was attached to it.

Archaeological, natural, as well as ethnological value is the Kakadu National Park. Its name is not associated with a breed of famous parrots. This is what the local tribe calls itself. This natural miracle is isolated from the outside world on all sides, so rare species of animals have been preserved here.

The park began to be popular not only because of the abundance of unique flora and fauna. On its territory there are interesting caves, the walls of which are decorated with rock paintings.

Not far from the Sydney Harbor Bridge is an important cultural attraction - the Opera House. It has an unusual shape - it resembles a huge shell. The building was erected in the style of structural expressionism. For his project, the architect received an award in the field of architecture, and the object itself was included in the UNESCO list.

The huge structure is washed by water from three sides. It stands on a pile foundation, the elements of which are driven as deep as possible. Beautiful evening illumination looks spectacular, the building turns into a shining stone.

No less interesting is the Blue Mountains National Park. Its scenic area is represented by eucalyptus forests, numerous cliffs and waterfalls. In the villages you can find a cozy guest house to spend the night or just take a break from a long road.

The presence of eucalyptus forests makes the air especially beneficial. It is saturated with essential oils, so it is very pleasant to inhale it. More than 90 species of eucalyptus grow on the territory of forests.

The sights of Australia include a whole island stretching along the east coast. Its length is approximately 120 km, while the width varies between 7-23 km. Of the sandy islands, the Fraser Islands are the largest in the world.

Surprisingly, there are a large number of fresh lakes here. There are more than a hundred of them. They are fed by streams that originate in peat bogs. However, it should be noted that all of them are significantly contaminated.

Many will want to be in the easternmost point of Australia - at Cape Byron. This is one of the most picturesque places on the entire continent. With a fairly high popularity among tourists and a relatively developed infrastructure, this place has preserved its original appearance.

The Eastern Cape attracts travelers with its rich and very diverse nature. Here you can surf, hang-glider, swim with dolphins or just wander around.

A natural attraction in the form of horizontal waterfalls may be of interest to many travelers. In Australia there is a place where two ridges converge at a short distance from each other, thus forming narrow clefts through which the bulk of the water rushes during high tides.

If you wish, you can order a sightseeing tour and enjoy the views directly from the seaplane, and then plunge into the purest waters of the bay. Fans of extreme entertainment can ride a surfboard here.

Summing up

You may notice that in the list of listed attractions in Australia, natural objects are more often mentioned. There are plenty of them throughout the country. Thus, if you are more attracted by picturesque views and unusual representatives of flora and fauna, then you should definitely visit this state.

An alternative solution may be another option. It will succeed in interesting natural areas, waterfalls, parks and beaches, as well as other places created by nature.

June 3 is Australia's founding day. We advise you to go on a trip in the summer and see many interesting places of the fifth continent.

1. Uluru. This orange-brown rock, towering in the middle of the desert, is a true symbol of Australia. This rock has been a place of worship for the natives since ancient times, and this is not surprising. After all, the rock consists of red sandstone, which miraculously changes color depending on the lighting, so it looks different at different times of the day. In addition, many springs flow from under the mountain, which is amazing for a desert and the only place where you can find water for tens of kilometers in the area.

2. Great Barrier Reef . This reef is the largest coral reef in the world, so it is a favorite place for divers. Actually, the Great Barrier Reef consists of more than 2900 small reefs surrounded by offshore islands. Nowhere else is there such a natural ecosystem in which many corals (more than 400 species), fish, including several species of sharks, and sea turtles coexist. This reef is visible even from space and is the largest structure created by living organisms.

3. Kakadu National Park . It is a cultural and natural monument of Australia. The park is surrounded on all sides by mountains, has a vast territory, equal in area to the territory of Israel. Kakadu Park has a unique nature, it is inhabited by animals and plants that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. And the animals of Australia themselves are the pride of the continent, because all the known marsupials on Earth are its inhabitants.

4. tasmania island is one of the Australian states. This is a true earthly paradise. Tasmania has preserved rainforests, which are home to two-thirds of the animals that inhabit the planet. It is believed that the forests of Tasmania are home to up to a million species of living creatures not yet known to science. The island is home to such rare species as the marsupial marten and the wombat, the largest burrowing mammal on Earth. The island is also famous for the tallest eucalyptus trees in the world. In Tasmania, eucalyptus trees grow up to a hundred meters high. An impressive sight!

5. Port of Sydney. It is here that the famous Sydney Opera House, which has become a UNESCO heritage, and the Sydney Botanic Gardens are located. The Opera House attracts not only connoisseurs of vocal art, but also lovers of interesting architecture. This unique building will be remembered by the traveler for its majesty and unusualness. On three sides, the theater is surrounded by water, and the roof of the tetra resembles either huge sails or the wings of a giant swan. The theater boasts the largest curtain in the world and the largest organ. The theater building covers an area of ​​more than two hectares.

6. sydney aquarium . Recently opened after renovation, the aquarium is one of the main attractions of Australia. This amazing collection of ocean creatures has about 13,000 animals. Here, in conditions close to natural and convenient for viewing by people, both giant sharks and turtles, as well as thousands of species of fish, rays, crabs live. The aquarium is built so that sharks and other terrible inhabitants of the ocean swim in close proximity to visitors. These deliver a lot of thrills! More than $10 million has been spent on refurbishing this giant aquarium.

7. Purnululu National Park . This park can only be reached during the dry season and only by off-road vehicles, but these inconveniences will be rewarded by the contemplation of the amazing striped rocks. Alternating bands of gray and orange sandstone attract thousands of tourists from all over the world to these places.

8. sydney tower . On this tower you can visit the observation deck, which is located at an altitude of 305 meters. It offers a beautiful view of the city. The tower has a restaurant, and for the most courageous - Sky Walk. This is a walk along the glass corridor at an altitude of 260 meters. The floor in the corridor is also transparent!

9. Pink Lake Hillier . Located in Western Australia and is another mystery of the continent unsolvable by scientists. The fact is that it is still completely incomprehensible what gives the water a pink color. Previously, there was an opinion that these were some special algae, but this conjecture failed - there are no algae in the lake at all.

10. Horizontal waterfall at Talbot Bay . This amazing waterfall not only falls horizontally, but also changes the direction of the water flow several times a day. This invariably delights all tourists. The secret of the waterfall is in a very narrow distance between two rocks, between which the water is squeezed. And given the powerful tides in the bay, everything becomes scientifically explainable. But still incredible!

Australia is an amazing and unfamiliar place for Europeans. After all, you see, except for a kangaroo and a marsupial bear, nothing immediately comes to mind. But, in fact, there are many miracles on this continent.

Landmarks of Australia

1. Sydney Opera House (Sydney Opera House)

Home The landmark and iconic symbol of Australia is the Sydney Opera House, any background on which the Sydney Opera is present is instantly associated with Australia, only endemic Australia, the Kangaroo, can compete with the opera in recognizing the image of the country.

Opened in 1973, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sydney Opera House is the main attraction that greets cruise ships entering Sydney Harbour.

Regarded as an architectural masterpiece of the 20th century, it is one of the most famous buildings in the world and one of the most easily recognizable. The Sydney Opera House was designed and built by the architect Jorn Utson, who tried to reflect the image of a huge sailing ship in the theater building. The Sydney Opera House hosts over 1,500 productions a year.

Official website: www.sydneyoperahouse.com

2. Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reefis the largest in the world coral reef and Australia's greatest natural treasure, it consists of over 2,900 individual coral reefs and 900 small islands stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the east coast of Australia, covering an area of ​​about 344,400 square kilometers. R The colorful beauty of the reef's waters consists of 400 species of living and dead coral polyps, home to about 1,500 species of fish, 4,000 species of molluscs, 500 species of algae, 200 species of birds, 1,500 different sponges and half a dozen species of turtle.

Due to the vast biological diversity, warm clear waters and easy accessibility for tourist boats, the reef is a very popular place for tourists, especially for scuba divers. The nature of the reef is unique and can surprise even those who have traveled a lot: transparent lagoons, unrealistic coral reefs, white sand beaches, amazing marine life. Coral reefs amaze the imagination with a variety of colors and bizarre shapes and serve as a habitat for many representatives of the animal and plant world. It is corals who are the architects and builders of reefs, their polyps secrete a small amount of lime, which makes up their external skeleton, which protects and supports soft bodies. When corals die, new ones appear in their place, growing together in billions of skeletons into a single monolith.

The best way to see the true natural wonder of the Great Barrier Reef is to book a day cruise from Cairns, Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas or Townsville. Also popular aresightseeing sailing cruises during the day with fish feeding, reef diving and underwater safaris.

Official website: www.greatbarrierreef.org


3. Uluru

Uluru or Ayers Rock is one of the largest monoliths in the world, an orange-red oval-shaped rock formed 680 million years ago, located inUluru National Park in the Northern Territory, 450 kilometers from the nearest city. The height of the monolith is more than 350 meters. Uluru is a proud symbol and place of spiritual significance for the Australian Aboriginals. According to scientists, aborigines lived in this place as far back as 10,000 years before our era.

Ayers Rock is known for its fabulous colors at dawn and dusk, when the surface of the monolith changes its color from ocher and brown to rich orange, at which time the most magical photographs of the rock are obtained. Walking paths for excursions are laid along the monolith, ranging from simple 45-minute walks to 4-hour walks and with the possibility of exploring caves and sacred places.

Website: www.crystalinks.com/ayersrock.html


4. Kakadu National Park

This unique archaeological and ethnological reserve was inhabited more than 40,000 years ago.Rock paintings, petroglyphs and archeological remains from prehistoric hunter-gatherers to the aborigines still living there.It is a unique example of an ecosystem complex that provides habitat for a wide range of rare or endemic plant and animal species.

Located in Australia's Northern Territory, about three hours north of Darwin, Kakadu National Park is the country's largest national park.

Website: www.parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu


5. Whitsunday Islands

This stunning archipelago of 74 islands lies in the Coral Sea next to Great Barrier Reef, an ideal place for travelers wishing to explore the amazing and colorful sea world.These islands are the perfect choice for tourists looking for a beautiful tropical island getaway or for those who enjoy snorkeling and diving.


6. Blue Mountains National Park

national park Blue Mountains or Blue Mountains, located in New South Wales, about 80 kilometers west of Sydney.Its proximity to Sydney has made this picturesque park a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The Blue Mountains delight with stunning landscapes of rocky sandstone peaks, valleys and eucalyptus forests.

The main attraction of the park are three rocks called Three Sisters, each peak has its own name. A gigantic staircase of almost 1,000 steps leads to the Three Sisters. Due to its proximity to Sydney, day trips to the Blue Mountains are popular with tourists. This is the most popular and famous park in Australia.


7. Purnululu National Park

Located in Western Australia, the national park is home to one of Australia's most unique tourist attractions known as the Bungle Bungle Range - orange and black striped sandstone domes that resemble huge beehives. This amazing example of karst rocks owes its existence to the unique interaction of geological, biological, erosional and climatic phenomena. In 2003, UNESCO included in the list of world heritage sites. Translated from one of the Australian Aboriginal languages, "Purnululu" means "sandstone".


8. Great Ocean Road

Australia's Great Ocean Road is great in every sense of the word and known for its long, empty beaches, powerful surf and magical scenery, it's one of the most famous and scenic roads in the world. And if you're looking for breathtaking seaside vistas and landscapes at every turn, then you've found them.

The Great Ocean Road is located in the state of Victoria, it is 243 kilometers of amazing views of tropical forests, sheer cliffs and the raging ocean. Car or sightseeing tour doesn't matter as they all provide the perfect opportunity to see Australia's iconic sights such as the Shipwreck Coast ( Shipwreck Coast), Port Campbell National Park, Twelve Apostles, Lock Ard Ridge ( Loch Ard Gorge), Te Grotto ( The Grotto) and London Arch.


9. Twelve Apostles (Twelve Apostles)

The most photogenic attraction of Australia must be recognized as an amazing miracle of nature - the Twelve Apostles. Washed by the raging waves of the great ocean in close proximity to the rocky coastline of western Victoria, the Twelve Apostles stand guard over the Great Ocean Road. twelve apostles presenta symbol of the sovereign power of nature and beauty.

The Twelve Apostles are a group of eight limestone cliffs in Port Campbell National Park, Victoria. Once upon a time there were twelve rocks, but time and the ocean undermined four of them.

The wild west coast of Victoria, the most mesmerizing and beautiful part of Australia, the site of the tragic shipwrecks of bygone days and the perfect place for an exhilarating cliff-top encounter with wildlife in all its glory.

The Twelve Apostles are located 250 kilometers west of Melbourne near Port Campbell.The best way to see them is to take the Great Ocean Road tour.


10 Litchfield National Park

Famed for its picturesque scenery, monsoon rainforests, and turning into a realm of streams and waterfalls in the spring, Litchfield National Park is perhaps best known for its magnetic termite mounds, huge sculpted pyramids built by termites and aligned north-south.They make this area unique and inimitable in other parts of the world.

The attractions of Litchfield Park, in addition to termite mounds, are beautiful waterfalls with lagoons where you can swim, especially popular with tourists are Wangi Falls and Florence Falls, surrounded by monsoon forests, as well as cascading sandstone plateaus called Ranje Tabletop.

11. Seal Bay Conservation Park

One of the main attractions of Kangaroo Island is Seal Bay Nature Reserve, which is home to the rare Australian sea lion.

The reserve is a great place to observe the sea lion, see them up close and observe their habits, and ina short walk from the picnic area is an observation deck overlooking the Cape Ganteum, where you can watch migrating whalesfrom May to October.A few minutes drive from the playgroundIknikov is the beach of Tuki Bay.

You can approach the beach with sea lions only as part of an organized group with a guide. Be sure to take your camera with youto capture every moment!


12 Fraser Island

This beautiful island in Queensland boasts rainforests, sand dunes, over 100 freshwater lakes and lots of colored sand.Fraser Island, just a short ferry ride from Hervey Bay, is also considered the largest sand island in the world.

The island has rainforests, eucalyptus forests, mangrove forests, peat swamps, sand dunes, and coastal heathlands.Fraser Island is home to a small number of mammal species, as well as a variety of bird, reptile and amphibian species.


13. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Open to yourself a living history of the indigenous peoples of Australia, nimmerse yourself in the traditional aboriginal culture of the Tyapukai, through incendiary music, dance, legends and food of the indigenous peoples of Australia, all this in the Tyapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.

F The folklore and myths come to life at the Creaton Theatre, you can also try your hand at javelin throwing and boomerang throwing, taste the tacker and buy authentic Australian Indigenous crafts in the souvenir shop. Chapukai Park is located 15 minutes north of Cairns.


14. Bondi Beach

Sydney's most famous beach, Bondi Beach, is a curved stretch of light golden sand and turquoise waves. The sands of Bondi Beach are a popular place for surfing, beach volleyball, yoga and social celebrations, and next to the beach there is a real parade of shops, restaurants and cafes. Bondi Beach is located in the eastern suburbs of Sydney, just a few kilometers from the city center.


15. Cable Beach, Broome

Cable Beach is a 22 km stretch of white sand beach in the eastern partindian oceanand the name of the suburb inBroome, Western Australia. The beach got its name in honor oftelegraphiccable laid between Broome andjavain 1889. P According to many Australians, Cable Beach is one of the most popular vacation spots for tourists and locals, as well as a natural attraction in Australia.This stunning beach is known for its white sands, beautiful sunsets and the brilliant blue waters of the Indian Ocean.



Mysterious Pink Lake Hillier on Middle Island

Wondering what to visit in Australia , be sure to include a landmark such as Lake Hillier , to your travel plan. The picturesque lake, whose waters have an unusual pink color, is located on Middle Island, covered with dense eucalyptus forests. If you look at this island from a bird's eye view, then against the background of the rich greenery of eucalyptus forests there will be a small bright spot, this is the pink Lake Hiller. The spectacular framing of sand and salt, which are located along its shores, gives even more expressiveness to the lake.

Lake Hillier has acquired the status of an Australian landmark precisely because of its eccentricity. Travelers from all over the world come to the shores of the unique lake to see for themselves that the water in it is really pink. What is the secret of such a shade of water? Despite numerous studies, there is still no exact answer to this question.

  • According to one version, the pink color is formed due to the pigment secreted by certain microorganisms living in the reservoir.
  • Another statement suggests that the pink hue is formed due to a combination of salts contained in the waters of the lake and specific microorganisms.
  • Studies conducted in the 50s of the 20th century refuted all previously put forward assumptions.

Thus, the mystery of Lake Hillier remains unsolved to this day.

3. Blue Mountains (New South Wales)


The Blue Mountains are one of the most picturesque places in the world.

Lovers of contemplating natural landscapes untouched by civilization will definitely find something to see in Australia , because on its territory there is a unique miracle of nature - the Blue Mountains National Park. This area got its name for a reason. A huge number of eucalyptus forests growing on a mountain range constantly releases vapors of essential oil into the air. The rays of the sun, refracted in billions of tiny droplets of oil, form a bluish haze, creating an atmosphere of mysterious fabulousness.

In the conventional sense, the Blue Mountains are not mountains. In fact, this is a set of mountain plateaus and cliffs, above which Mount Victoria rises majestically at a height of about 1300 m above sea level.

Sandy plateaus, carved by gorges and canyons, are interspersed with many crystal clear mountain rivers and streams, creating an amazingly beautiful landscape. No wonder the national park has become one of Australia's most popular attractions.

4. Mount Uluru (Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park)


Unique rock formation Mount Uluru

If you are planning a trip, you will have no doubt what to visit in Australia, because these lands are fraught with real wonders. The eighth wonder of the world, the Sacred Site, Red Mountain - all these honors are awarded to Mount Uluru, also called Ayers Rock. This is one of the most recognizable natural attractions of Australia, one of the main symbols of the continent. During the day, its red-orange rock is able to change color: at dawn, the mountain has the lightest shade, with the sun rising to the zenith it turns purple-red, then pink and, finally, a golden hue, and darkens in the evening.

How was Uluru formed? Millions of years ago, the mountain range looked more like an island. Gradually, along the edges, the rocks collapsed and settled, forming a rock. Now in the desert where Uluru is located, winds are rushing, heavy rains are falling, creating deep cracks on the surface of the mountain.

The fantastic red rock, resembling a huge elephant, is not only unique in appearance, the age of the natural monument is also remarkable - the history of its existence is about 6 million years. This is confirmed by rock paintings that testify to the life of ancient people.

5. Yarra Valley (Melbourne)


Australia's wine region Yarra River Valley

South Australia is famous for its wine industry. And perhaps one of the most spectacular wine regions here is the Yarra River Valley, where many varieties of grapes grow. The first vine was planted here in 1838, since then more than 40 wineries have been formed on these lands, which today collect excellent harvests here.

Thousands of wine connoisseurs visit these fertile lands to taste the luxurious bouquet of local wines. In addition, travelers can see a lot of interesting things here.

  • For example, you can visit one of the many nature reserves that exist here, admire the breathtaking views of wildlife, see representatives of the local fauna, such as kangaroos, wombats, emus and some species of birds of prey.
  • Everyone will find a memorabilia in the markets of local small towns located in the vastness of the valley.
  • You can even take part in collective multi-day itineraries to feel the local color and learn as much as possible about the mysterious valley.

And to see the valley from a new angle, it is worth taking to the sky in a balloon, taking in the expanses of a bird's eye view and landing in one of the many vineyards to have breakfast with fresh products washed down with sparkling wine.

Feel the atmosphere of Australia in this beautiful video!

6. Opera House (Sydney)


Symbol of Sydney Opera House

The attractiveness of the Green Continent lies not only in the extraordinary nature of the mainland. An important role is also played by cities that have become centers of business and cultural life, where the oldest sights of Australia are adjacent to modern skyscrapers, parks immersed in greenery - with busy avenues, historical museums - with huge supermarkets.

So, for example, the landscape of Sydney is uniquely recognizable among thousands of other cities thanks to the world-famous landmark - the building of the Opera House, one of the most famous in world architecture. This unique building was designed by a Danish architect named Jorn Utzon. Having designed the roofs of the theatre, original in shape, the Dane presented Sydney with a symbol of the city, by which now almost every inhabitant of the planet recognizes this city.

Many years after the erection of the famous building, the architect admitted that he was inspired to create the unique roof of the theater ... an orange peel, taken from a fruit in triangular segments. The difference is only in scale. The sloping vaults of the roofs are covered with countless tiles that, reflecting the sun's rays, create an unusual color scheme. The opera house has always attracted the attention of tourists with the originality of its forms, in connection with which this architectural creation has become an almost integral element of any city.

7. Kangaroo Island (Bay St. Vincent)


Kangaroo Island park and beach

Perhaps everyone knows that for a long time the true symbol of Australia is the kangaroo. But not everyone knows that there is a whole island dedicated to these amazing animals, it is called Kangaroo Island. On its territory there is a huge park inhabited by rare species of ancient animals and relic plants. Aborigines lived on the island several millennia ago, after which they left these lands, and all this time the lands remained completely isolated from the outside world, giving local animals the opportunity to live in complete peace and security. And only in 1802, the European Flinders set foot on Kangaroo Island, who gave this name to these lands.

In addition to animals, visitors to the park are attracted by interesting geological formations - the so-called Remarkable Rocks, huge boulders of the most unusual and bizarre shapes, located at a low altitude above sea level.

Not far from the Remarkable Rocks is another attraction of Australia - the Arch of the Admiral. This creation of nature is a cave inside a huge boulder, from the depths of which it is so interesting to contemplate the beauty of the sea tides.

8. Lake Gippsland (Victoria)


Lake Gippsland

Australia is rich in amazing places that attract the attention of tourists from all over the world. Among them is Lake Gippsland, which is sometimes also called the "Fire from the Underworld." During daylight hours, this lake is no different from any other body of water, but with the onset of darkness, real miracles begin to happen here. A fascinating bluish glow emanates from the water depths of the lake. This phenomenon has a very real scientific explanation, and has acquired the term "bioluminescence". The fact is that the waters of the lake are inhabited by plants and organisms endowed with bioluminescent abilities. It is this property that allows all living things in the reservoir to emit a kind of light that we see in the dark. In general, such light is constantly emitted, but only with the onset of darkness, when the sun is completely hidden behind the horizon, we can observe a real extravaganza of bluish lights along the shores of the lake.

In addition to the amazing views that open up at night, during the day you can also enjoy the extraordinary beauty of landscapes - the lake is surrounded by cliffs and fern forests around the entire perimeter.

9. King's Canyon (Vatarrka National Park)


View of King's Canyon

Located in the Red Center of Australia, King's Canyon once had the status of a sacred land for the local Aborigines. Today, it has gained the status of an Australian landmark due to its unique appearance and peculiar natural beauty. Sheer walls of the canyon, formed of sandstone, reaching 200 meters in height, were formed over millions of years, acquiring unusual shapes under the influence of wind erosion. Dense thickets of ferns and cycads grow inside the canyon, palm forests, hundreds of species of animals find shelter - all this thanks to the walls of the canyon, which for the local flora and fauna play the role of protection from the desert drought that prevails outside the canyon.

To the edges of the canyon, from where travelers have an amazing view, there are several rocky ascents.

  • The most popular is the 6 km route, which will take about 3-4 hours. This is the optimal route in terms of complexity, which allows you to enjoy the incredible panoramic landscapes of the canyon, see the unusual rock formations of the Lost City, and descending into the canyon itself, admire the beauties of the Garden of Eden, the so-called reservoir in the rock, surrounded by lush vegetation.
  • The easiest and shortest route runs right along the bottom of the Royal Canyon, where you can see numerous boulders and giant eucalyptus trees, and this route ends on a viewing platform on the height of the gorge, from where you can see the sheer cliffs.
  • Finally, the most difficult route with a length of 22 kilometers, connecting the Royal Canyon and the city of Kathleen Springs, will be able to conquer the most inveterate travelers.

10. Tasmania Island (Tasmania, 240 km south of the mainland)


The coast of Tasmania

To the south of the mainland is another unique attraction of Australia - the island of Tasmania, famous throughout the world for its unique beauty of tropical forests.

The nature of the origin of the island is amazing - the Gondwana continent, which existed on earth several hundred million years ago, united the lands of the future Australia, Africa, South America and Antarctica. As a result of the movement of the earth's plates, a single continent gradually broke up into many parts, forming several separate continents that have retained this appearance to this day.

Tropical beauty lovers will definitely find something to see in Australia, because the island of Tasmania is a real gift of nature, full of lush vegetation. Just imagine: majestic giant trees, mainly eucalyptus and ancient beech, have grown so densely that it is impossible to get between them. Everything around is overgrown with dense greenery, the undergrowth is complemented by ferns and thick mosses with a dense carpet, whips of lianas hang between the trees. A variety of fauna live in these parts - the famous Tasmanian devil, red wallaby, marsupial wolf and Tasmanian bettong.

The whole valley abounds with lakes, streams and mountain rivers - such a striking and exciting sight will undoubtedly be appreciated by a real traveler.

Sightseeing in Australia: what else to visit while in Australia

It’s worth thinking about what places to visit during your vacation long before you board a plane. You should not think that they will tell you about all the local attractions, because there are hundreds of them. Fortunately, you have our list at your disposal, with which you will not be lost even at the ends of the earth!

11. Fraser Island (East Coast of Australia)


Large sandy Fraser Island

The world of the Green Continent is rich and diverse, and Fraser Island, another interesting attraction of Australia, is a bright spot on the map of the mainland. The world's largest sandy island consists entirely of sand, which has been carried by sea currents and blown by winds for thousands of years, forming another amazing creation of nature - sand dunes. These are real mountains of white sand, reaching a height of 240-250 meters.

An amazing feature of the sandy island is that on its lands, washed from all sides by the salty waters of the ocean, there are more than a hundred freshwater lakes. Why are there so many lakes with fresh water on an island that does not receive food from rivers or glaciers? It's all about precipitation and groundwater, which constantly replenish reservoirs, preventing them from drying out. The panoramas of these lakes are unusually beautiful - the purest waters are framed by a border of snow-white sand, and all this is surrounded by wild forests. Among the most picturesque reservoirs is Lake Mackenzie, located at an altitude of 100 meters above the sea, and the largest of them is Lake Boemingham, whose area reaches 200 hectares. In general, the climate of Fraser Island is milder than the rest of the mainland, due to the high amount of moisture in the air and soil.

12. Big Pineapple in Queensland (Woombay)

Big pineapple statue

Undoubtedly, there will be something to see in Australia , and lovers of creative architecture. In the state of Queensland, in the town of Woombye, for many decades tourists have been pleased with the brightness and positiveness of a large statue of a pineapple. The incessant stream of inquisitive travelers, eager to look at this creation, does not dry up year after year. A large 16-meter fiberglass structure was erected here in 1971, when the Taylors, having built a small farm and a recreation park, decided to attract the attention of visitors. It is worth recognizing that they succeeded perfectly, because a huge and bright statue in the shape of a pineapple catches the eye from afar.

The farm, by the way, exists to this day, both domestic animals live here - donkeys, pigs, and exotic ones - for example, alpaca, whose valuable wool is used to make various woolen products.

Here, in the neighborhood, you can also visit a small zoo where kangaroos, deer, koalas and other representatives of the local fauna live.

Visitors also have the opportunity to observe how pineapples and Australian macadamia nuts are grown on local plantations.

13. Rock "Stone Wave" (Western Australia)


stone statue of a wave

The amazingly beautiful landmark of Australia in the form of an unusually shaped rock formation is located in the west of the mainland. This is the “Stone Wave” rock, whose name comes from its shape - outwardly, this miracle of nature looks like a huge sea wave has stirred right in the middle of the land. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come to see this stone statue every year. The visible part of the "wave" rising above the ground is about 15 meters high, and over a hundred meters long.

For many centuries, this creation of nature has played an important role in the culture of the local population. It was once believed that it was in the place where this “wave” was formed that the forces of spirits and nature accumulated and intertwined. Australians treat this statue with special trepidation to this day, making considerable efforts to preserve the beauty of the natural monument. For this purpose, back in the 50s of the last century, a reinforcing dam was built to protect the "Stone Wave" from natural erosion.

14. Twelve Apostles Rocks (Victoria, Port Campbell National Park)


Limestone rocks-giants “The Twelve Apostles”

One of Australia's most famous and recognizable landmarks is the Twelve Apostles, a group of rocks that has become a symbol of the Great Ocean Road, stretching at a breathtaking height above the coast. It is the “12 Apostles” that are often depicted on numerous tourist booklets, and every year hundreds of thousands of interested tourists visit these places to observe the peculiar beauty of the rocks and their ability to change their color throughout the day. The most picturesque panorama opens up in the morning and evening, when the subdued sunlight gives the landscape a mystery and saturation of colors.

The age of these rocky formations is tens of millions of years old: year after year, waves and wind destroyed the soft limestone, forming cavities in the cliffs, and the resulting arches collapsed over time, forming rocks up to 45 meters high.

Some interesting facts are connected with the rocks of "12 apostles".

  • In fact, having visited these places, you will find that there are not 12 rocks here, but only 8. Initially, there were 9 of them, but one of them collapsed in 2005.
  • Previously, the complex of rock formations was called "Pig and Pigs", but in order to make the name more harmonious, this creation of nature was renamed "12 Apostles".

15. Kuranda (Queensland)


At the Kuranda Zoo

And in what corner of Australia can you learn the most about the life of the indigenous inhabitants of the Green Continent? What to visit in Australia to get acquainted with their culture, the peculiarities of life, the characteristic features of their mentality? Perhaps the best place for this is the small hilly town of Kuranda in northern Queensland. It is so small that it can be walked around in a matter of minutes - from edge to edge of the town the distance is only 1 kilometer, but there is definitely something to see there.

  • For example, in local markets you can not only buy ordinary souvenirs, but also get to know the features of the craft and folk art of the indigenous people to the fullest extent.
  • Under a large mesh canopy is the bird world Birdworld, where you can safely walk among the soaring birds, including parrots, quails, pigeons, cassowaries.
  • Koala Gardens is the name of a small wildlife zoo on the continent. In addition to koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, lizards and snakes live here.
  • Aboriginal Research Center - is a village inhabited by the true indigenous people of the mainland. Here you can fully explore the culture and life of the natives, watch their traditional dance, watch a boomerang or spear throw, listen to the game on the ancient African didgeridoo instrument.

16. House of Queen Victoria (Sydney)


Late 19th century Queen Victoria building in downtown Sydney

When exploring the places of interest in Sydney, you can start with the most emblematic monuments - such as the house of Queen Victoria, towering in the middle of the city's business district. The majestic building was born in 1898 in honor of the 60th anniversary of the reign of the queen, on the site of the former city market, which existed here since the beginning of the 19th century. Today, this place is an impressive shopping center that houses various fashion boutiques, cafeterias, jewelry stores and more. Recognizable elements of the building are exquisite stained-glass windows, a mosaic floor, a characteristic staircase, one of the ten most beautiful staircases in the world, as well as an interior made in a traditional Gothic style. Right in front of the entrance to the house rises a majestic monument dedicated to the queen, and a separate reason for admiration is the Great Australian Clock, which shows the history of the country in pictures.

17. Harbor Bridge (Sydney)


Steel arch bridge Harbor Bridge across Port Jackson Bay in Sydney

Perhaps, the Sydney Harbor Bridge, the largest arch bridge in the world, built of steel, deserves to be included in the top 5 attractions in Australia. Often the locals call it a "hanger", due to the similarity of the design with this item. The grand opening of the bridge took place in 1932, although construction was planned in the middle of the 19th century. All previous 25 bridge projects were rejected, and only the project of the London architect Ralph Freeman won, and in 1926 construction started. The Harbor Bridge spans Port Jackson Bay, connecting the North Shore and downtown. The bridge can be used by both pedestrians and cyclists, as well as cars - special roads are provided for everyone. The bridge has a length of 1150 meters, a height of 134 meters, and those who wish can climb to its highest point to explore the beautiful city panoramas.

18. Sydney Tower (Sydney)


Sydney Tower in the area of ​​skyscrapers and the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary in Sydney

Among other things, Australia is known for high-rise buildings, one of which is the Sydney Tower - the highest building in Sydney, the second tallest in the southern hemisphere of the planet. The tower project was developed in 1970, after 5 years active construction work began, and after 6 years the building was opened to the public. The structure consists of three main sections with viewing platforms, and you can climb into any of them on one of the three high-speed elevators. The first section is a closed observation platform at a height of 250 meters with a viewing angle of 360 °, the second section is a platform 18 meters higher than the first, the main trump card of which is a transparent glass floor. A visit to the second site turns into an exciting attraction, with an overview of the huge city, skyscrapers, the bay and the picturesque Blue Mountains from a dizzying height. The third section is a restaurant with a capacity of up to 220 people.

19. St. Paul's Cathedral (Melbourne)


Facade of St. Paul's Cathedral in the center of Melbourne Adam.J.W.C.
Interior of St Paul's Cathedral in Melbourne

Choosing the historical and cultural sights of Australia , you can not do without one of the religious symbols of the country - St. Paul's Cathedral, located in the historic district of Melbourne. It is the largest Neo-Gothic Anglican church and was the tallest structure in Melbourne at the time of construction. One of the main values ​​of the cathedral is the largest organ from Great Britain, created by the English master T. Lewis and including more than 6.5 thousand pipes. The cathedral itself looks very majestic, and in the evening and at night with illumination it is simply fantastic, its hall with a mosaic floor impresses with its huge size. The height of the building, together with the spire, makes it possible to call it the highest Anglican cathedral in the world. Previously, there was a stone parish church here, and in 1891 it was replaced by a grandiose sandstone building, and only in the 20th century its spire and tower were completed.

20. Kakadu National Park (northern Australia)


Huge termite mound in Kakadu National Park

Kakadu Park will surely appeal to those who love ecotourism, natural attractions , Interested in archeology and history. This is a picturesque place on the continent where you can see wildlife in all its beauty and diversity. It is a plateau surrounded by rocks, where there are rainforests, and savannas, and rivers, and waterfalls. Each of these objects is saturated with abundant vegetation - the flora is represented by 1600 plant species. The fauna of the park is no less rich - here you can find traditional marsupials, more than a hundred species of reptiles, about 3 hundred species of birds, which is one third of all birds inhabiting Australia. The park pays special attention to river tourism, water safaris are organized, trips are made to some waterfalls. The reserve is managed by the Aboriginal community - they conduct educational excursions here, demonstrating local customs and some original products.

21. Bondi Beach (Sydney)


Bondi Beach is the most popular city beach in Sydney.

Sometimes it is enough to download a photo of an Australian landmark to appreciate its beauty and aesthetic appeal. The 6-kilometer Bondi Beach, located just outside the center of Sydney, is a strip of white sand, with clear turquoise water and incredible waves that are so attractive to surfers. It is also a string of trendy cafes and bars, shops and cozy hotels, as well as numerous festivals, competitions and holidays. For example, it has long been a tradition on the beach to celebrate Christmas with grandiose fireworks. At the same time, this place is devoid of excessive pretentiousness and secular glamour, here you can just soak up the sand, admiring the magnificent scenery, views of rocks, waves and the coast with its hiking trail connecting Bondi to several other beaches.

22. Australian Zoo (Birwa)


Entrance to the Australian Zoo in Beerwah Kaus

To decide what to see in Australia in 2 weeks , it is worth considering that such a period of time allows you to go beyond the standard route in Sydney. Adding variety to the trip, you can go to Queensland to visit the most interesting zoo, which bears the name of Steve Irving. This outstanding nature lover showed great interest in Australian wildlife since childhood - for example, he demonstrated miracles of courage and dexterity, catching crocodiles for the reptile park created by his parents. The park is located on an area of ​​40 hectares and is inhabited by a huge variety of animals - there are about 30 species of reptiles, the same number of mammals, about 40 species of birds. You can not only see some of the inhabitants of the park, but also feed them from your hand, and even stroke them. The spectacular crocodile show impresses visitors deeply.

23. Penguin Parade (Phillip Island)


The famous penguin parade at sunset on Phillip Island

Upon arrival in Australia, it is worth purchasing a travel booklet - Australia is presented there in the form of main attractions, descriptions and ways to get to them. But if this is enough for a novice tourist, then a sophisticated traveler will not stop at the standard list of objects - he will look for something new and exotic. For example, he will go to Phillip Island, famous for its parade of penguins - a huge colony of these birds is registered here. Every day at sunset, the penguins, returning from sea hunting, walk together and waddled to their minks, and this action takes on a large-scale and very spectacular look. And in order to make it convenient to watch this fascinating parade without disturbing the birds, special platforms and stands are equipped for visitors.

24. Great Ocean Road (Victoria)


The Great Ocean Road is 243 kilometers long along the ocean coast in Victoria

If Western Australia, with its dry and sunny climate, is famous for its wine-growing regions, bizarre rock formations, sand dunes and ancient eucalyptus trees, then the Great Ocean Road can rightly be called the most important attraction of southern Australia. It stretched across the entire state of Victoria for hundreds of kilometers along the coast of the Indian Ocean, and connected Melbourne and Adelaide. But the main feature of this path is the excellent views of the coast, its nature, flora and fauna, which open up from a wide variety of angles along the winding road. Basically, the road leads along the ocean, but sometimes it dives deep into the mainland, passing through vineyards and fantastic rain forests, flickers along the steep foothills of the rocks, allows you to admire grottoes, caves, limestone columns. This amazing path was built in 1932 in order to develop tourism.

25. Cape Byron (New South Wales)


Snow-white lighthouse at Cape Byron on the east coast of Australia in the state of "New South Wales"

In order to comprehend all the beauty and diversity of Australian nature, you can go around the Australian islands to the east of the mainland and explore the sights of Oceania , see coral reefs, fantastically shaped rocks, colored lakes and mountains with eucalyptus forests. And you can, without leaving the land, go to Cape Byron - the easternmost tip of the mainland. This is a unique place that, despite the developed infrastructure, retains its wild and original appearance, impresses with its grandeur, picturesque and diverse nature. The cape is named after the poet John Byron, a famous adventurer who loved to embark on various adventures. One of the prominent sights of the cape is the snow-white lighthouse of 1901, where an observation deck is equipped. And the town of Byron Bay, nestled in this region, is a popular tourist resort with excellent opportunities for water sports.

In whatever corner of the Green Continent you find yourself, you will undoubtedly be warmly welcomed by the local population, and the nature of Australia will open the gates to the wonderful world of tropical forests, crystal clear lakes, untouched lands, far from our usual everyday life and the bustle of modern civilizations.

For me, the desire of the inhabitants of the post-Soviet space to conquer Europe and America has always remained an incomprehensible phenomenon. For some reason, our compatriots completely forget about the existence of the Australian continent. And this is very, very in vain. The country of kangaroos and koalas combines several climatic zones and is famous for its unique landscapes. Flora and fauna are unparalleled in the whole world. Only here you will see wombats, platypuses and Tasmanian devils.

Large cities will delight party-goers with an abundance of entertainment, beaches will appeal to both thrill-seekers and lovers of a relaxing holiday. Today I want to focus on the unique sights of Australia. I present to you a selection of 18 surreal places, as if descended from the pages of novels about distant uncharted planets.

The heart reef was discovered in 1975 by an Air Whitsunday pilot. Today, it ranks among the most popular destinations in Australia. Attraction in special esteem among romantic natures. There is a belief that if you fly over the reef and kiss your loved one, then your feelings will survive any adversity. In fact, the island is an integral part of the Great Barrier Reef and is completely formed from coral polyps. Its dimensions are about 17 meters in diameter. A peculiar form can only be seen from a height. The reef-heart is guarded around the clock, landing on the island is strictly prohibited.

2. Mount Uluru, Northern Australia

Perhaps one of the most popular places on the continent is Urulu-Kata Tjuta National Park. It is located in the desert zone and extends over a good 1326 square kilometers. The world-wide fame of the park is due to the specific landscape. The iconic rocks of Kata Tjuta, which translates from the local dialect as “Many heads”, attract thousands of tourists like a magnet.

Mount Olga proudly rises above 35 roughly identical boulders. It is named after the daughter of the Russian Emperor Nicholas I, who married in 1846 the King of Württemberg, Charles I. The height of the mountain is 1066 meters above sea level. Due to the high content of iron oxide in the rocks of Kata Tjuta, the rocks have a characteristic red color. It seems that you are conquering the vast expanses of Mars.

The installation by internationally acclaimed artist Anthony Gormley has become a symbol of Western Australia. On the salty plain of Ballard Lake, there are 51 metal statues, each of which is unique. The monuments depict the inhabitants of the town of Menzies, founded in 1895 and flourishing in the ensuing decade of the gold rush. The composition was presented at the Perth International Arts Festival in 2003.

The surroundings of Lake Ballard are very original. In the summer, the reservoir almost completely dries up. Salt mixes with clay soil, staining tens of kilometers in a brownish color with whitish streaks. Sculptures of Gormley are randomly placed throughout the territory, it will take at least 3 hours to get around everything. Rusty figures clearly stand out against the blue sky and look somewhat intimidating. It seems as if the dead have risen from their graves. Wouldn't want to be there at night.

An amazing place lurks in Mount William National Park, combining a white sandy beach, an ocean of sky blue and bright orange rocks. Huge boulders have chosen a rare species of lichens as their place of residence. According to the official version, the name of the bay was given by the captain of the ship and the discoverer of Tasmania, Tobias Furno. In 1773, from the deck, he saw the fires of the natives on land, which led him to new lands. The color of the rocks evokes associations with the flames of those same signal lights.

Everywhere you look, there is beauty all around. If you wish, you can swim in secluded coves, admire the scenery from rocky cliffs or walk through the dense forests of protected areas. Inveterate lovers of extreme sports, the organizers, who manage the leisure of tourists, will offer to go surfing, diving or kayaking.

Whitehaven Beach is approximately 7 kilometers long and snakes around the coastline of Whitesunday Island. Getting to him is not a problem. Tourist boats depart from the ports at Airlie Beach, Shute Harbor, and Hamilton Island every half hour. In November of each year, triathlon competitions are held here as part of the Hamilton Island Triathlon Event. In 2008, Whitehaven Beach received a high state award and was recognized as the best holiday destination in Australia. And in 2015, it was placed in first place in the ranking of the beaches of the South Pacific Coast.

Crystal water washes white sands made of 98% pure silica. The beach cover has been formed over millions of years, sea currents carried shells from the depths, polished them to an impeccable shade and dispersion. Sand has the unique property that it does not conduct heat and therefore does not heat up. You can safely wander around barefoot even on the hottest day.

The landscape of the southwestern part of Australia is represented mainly by plains scorched by the sun. Here is a small, but definitely worthy of your attention, Pinnacles Desert. The name of the area literally translates as "desert of pointed rocks." Impressive limestone blocks of bizarre shapes come to the surface from the bowels of the earth. The height of the formations ranges from 1 to 5 meters. The leading minds of the scientific community are struggling to find out the true causes and conditions of occurrence.

Imagine, Pinnacles was not explored until the 60s of the last century. Only after the land was annexed to the territory of the National Park, the area was opened to a wide range of visitors. The ideal time to travel is from August to October. Spring begins in the desert, heat-resistant plants bloom green leaves, all the flora in the area blooms. Sunrise and sunset are accompanied by a breathtaking play of shadows. Toward evening, ostriches and kangaroos come to the valley.

I never cease to be amazed at the inexhaustible imagination of Mother Nature. The Great Australian Bight has the world's longest solid limestone plateau. The area of ​​​​the Nullarbor Plain (translated from Latin as “without trees”) is about 270 square kilometers. The side facing the ocean is a series of viewing platforms.

The Banda cliffs are 60 to 120 meters high. It is incredibly scary to approach the edge - a strong wind blows in your face, and from below you hear the roar of waves crashing against indestructible rocks. Some daredevils dare to dangle their legs, but I would not dare to do so. The authorities have turned natural beauty into the main source of income. For the convenience of tourists, each site has a separate exit from the highway and clear signs.

The Bungle Bungle mountain range is located 190 kilometers from the city of Holes. The age of the sand ridge is approximately 350 million years. Previously, this area was hidden under water, and when the ocean receded as a result of a meteorite fall, an uneven plateau came to the surface. It took 20 million years for the rains and winds to form cone-shaped ridges that look like bee hives.

Sandstone has a layered structure, dark brown stripes alternate with bright orange. For 40 millennia, the area was revered by the natives as a shrine. The Bungle Bungle is part of the Purnululu National Park, designated a World Heritage Site in 2003.

Are you scared and at the same time delighted by the waves raging in a storm on the ocean surface? Then you will definitely be impressed by the stone tsunami. Granite formation covers an area of ​​several hectares. This is all that remains of Hayden Rock. Years of erosion did not pass without a trace, rainwater flowed into the ravine and washed away particles of stone.

In 1951, to prevent further destruction of the landmark, a protective wall was built along the contour of the Waved Rock at the direction of the Department of Public Works. Its main function is to divert precipitation to special storage facilities.

In a small valley south of Tennut Creek is the clearest symbol of the deserted Australian deserts. Karlu-Karlu, the second name of the object, is used only by the natives. Rounded boulders turned from all sides balance on the parent rocks. It seems as if the giant's child played with heavy stones, as with cubes, and scattered them around.

According to an ancient legend, Karlu-Karlu is the eggs of the sacred rainbow snake. The Old Believers still conduct rituals in the area. A later addition says that the culprit in the formation of a natural monument is the Devil himself. The official version is much more prosaic. During the drift of the continents, Northern Australia was a tectonically active zone, volcanic eruptions often occurred here. Heterogeneous lava solidified and eroded.

Close your eyes and let your imagination run wild. Take yourself to the heart of Middle Island. You will see sandy shores, smoothly turning into dense thickets of tropical forest. The scent of the sea and eucalyptus is in the air, but what is it that turns pink behind the bushes?! Move the branches apart with your hand, and you will see a lake of indescribable beauty. The color of the pond is similar to Barbie doll's favorite outfits. Sounds like a fantasy movie script, doesn't it?

Samples were repeatedly subjected to physical and chemical analyses, but the exact composition of Lake Hillera has not been established. So far, it is known for certain that the natural phenomenon is due to the presence of mineral salts in the water, but which ones and in what proportion remains a mystery.

A surreal place in the Kimberley region. Horizontal waterfalls are formed due to a significant difference in water level that occurs during high and low tide. The mountain ranges that form the McLarty-Rangles ridge stretch towards each other from opposite shores of the bay. They are only 10-15 meters away from touching. An association with the Symplegades, who nearly killed the Argonauts, comes to mind.

Be sure to visit Talbot Bay and see firsthand how hissing streams rush into a narrow crevice between nearby rocks. The direction changes depending on the time of day. You will be amazed by the irresistible pressure falling from a height of 4 meters and shimmering in the rays of the hot sun.

The picturesque places of the Blue Mountains cannot be bypassed even in a few days. So, I suggest stocking up on time and comfortable tents. This area is included in the list of World Heritage Sites. Eucalyptus forests have not changed since the time of the dinosaurs. Trees actively emit essential oils, which is why a dense blue haze hangs over the valleys (hence the name).

Tourists are attracted not only by the beauty of nature, but also by amazing stories about love. A striking example is the legend of the three sisters. The girls fell in love with the guys from the neighboring tribe, who responded to them in return. However, strict customs did not allow the young to get married. Then the young men decided to steal the beauties. A serious war broke out between the tribes. The shaman turned the girls into mountains before the decisive battle, but he died himself and could not disenchant Mihni, Vimla and Ganneda. So three cold stone peaks remained standing in anticipation of their betrothed.

Not a single holiday or festival on Kangaroo Island is complete without a solemn procession to the Remarkable Rocks. It took nature 500 million years to use rain, wind and wave impacts to grind the giant boulders that are today part of Flinders Chase National Park.

Early morning and evening are the best times to visit Kangaroo Island. You can avoid the crowds and take your time watching the sunrise or sunset against the backdrop of impressive natural sculptures. Intertwined in the rock: black mica, bluish quartz, feldspar and pinkish granite. A wooden bridge leads to the attraction, eliminating the risk of a painful fall on the pebbles due to attempts to climb the rocks.

Although the era of the Gold Rush is far behind, the deposits discovered at the beginning of the 20th century continue to produce tons of precious metal. Super Pit is the largest quarry in the world. For nuggets, 550 workers descend to a depth of 360 meters daily. The size of the pit is constantly growing. Today it is 3500 meters long and 1500 meters wide.

Getting into production is not so easy. You must either obtain permission from the owners for a private visit, or buy a seat on the tour bus. For tourists, a special observation deck was erected, fenced around the perimeter with a steel mesh. The information board indicates the schedule of explosions needed to expand the mines.

A long time ago, fiery chaos reigned on Earth. Volcanoes erupted everywhere, but then the planet returned to normal. One of the largest rocks in the world is essentially a fragment of those hot days. In 1788, the captain of the Seplay ship discovered it and immodestly gave the island its own name. Naturalists were in no hurry to explore the Ball Pyramid, the first expedition was equipped only in 1882. Today, the volcanic cliff is listed in the Guinness Book of Records and is considered a tasty bait for tourists.

In 2013, entomologists discovered a population of insects on the island that had been considered extinct for 95 years. It is none other than the Tree Lobster or the Australian Stick Bug. The length of the average individual reaches 12 cm, this is without taking into account the legs and antennae. The insect is not dangerous to humans and feeds on shrubs that grow only on Ball's Pyramid. What can I say, supernatural creatures must live in a supernatural place.

Walpole Nornalup National Park is known for its extensive prehistoric forests, consisting mainly of gigantic eucalyptus trees and dense fern thickets. The height of individual specimens reaches 60 meters, and the girth of the trunk is 15 meters. To grow to such an impressive size, the trees took at least 400 years.

Feel like a grain of sand next to imposing silent giants. A lift will quickly deliver visitors to the crown of the Diamond Tree. A cozy cafe has been set up at the foot of the trunk, where you can dine in the shade of bushes. At a height of 40 meters above the ground, a suspended hiking trail was laid. The walk will tickle your nerves and give you an unforgettable experience.

Within the boundaries of the Port Campbell National Park there is an amazing place that attracts with its impressive ascetic beauty. Off the coast, in close proximity to each other, there are 8 cliffs of yellow sandstone. "Why then are they called the 'Twelve Apostles'?" - you ask. The answer is simple, there really were more of them before, but the stone pedestals could not withstand the pressure of storms and collapsed into the depths of the sea.

Tourists here, as if smeared with honey. During the holiday season, queues line up at the observation decks. Everyone wants to be photographed against a breathtaking backdrop. In the evening, the beach at the Twelve Apostles is flooded with Australian penguins. Small birds nest among rocks inaccessible to humans.

Don't sit still, pack your things and go on an adventure. By visiting all 18 locations from the selection, you will become the happiest and tanned representative of the human race. And unsurpassed photographs will complement your album, later you will proudly show them to your grandchildren and tell stories about unusual places in Australia.