Australia's top attractions The main attractions of Australia: photo and description What you need to visit in Australia

For lovers of the water element, the ocean, the exotic beauties of the natural landscape and unique species of animals and plants, a place like Australia is ideal. The cities combine in a unique way the modern architecture of business districts and the antiquity of preserved historically significant buildings. A rich variety of bizarre outlines of lakes, mountain ranges, rocks creates an unusual atmosphere. Crystal clear waters, comfortable beaches and interesting parks - all this attracts tourists who come for an unforgettable vacation.

: where to go

Show table of attractions in Australia

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Important! All tours, sightseeing trips should be booked in advance before arriving in Australia. So you save not only your time, make the rest less troublesome. But it is also guaranteed that during the active tourist season you will get a place in hotels, vehicles, restaurants, the service of which is included in the price of the tour.

Beautiful Sydney Harbor

The picturesque panorama of the Sydney harbor will not leave indifferent any tourist. All over the world, she is considered the most beautiful in Sydney. Attractive sites close to the harbor are numerous islands, the Harbor Bridge, the Opera House shell building, areas with interesting and historical buildings "Rocks", "Darling Harbour".

It is equipped with everything sailing and yachting, and not just for the berths of other ships.

The largest bridge Harbor Bridge

The world's largest arch bridge is built in Sydney. Its steel structure is so strong that it can withstand the riot of winds and bad weather for generations of people in the country. Thousands of tourists flock to this place to see the amazing structure.

You can not only admire the Harbor Bridge from a distance and take pictures against its background, but also take a walk along the side arch. For this, a tourist service is specially provided - a walk to the top of the bridge with an instructor. Many are tempted by this attraction because from the top of the bridge there are simply stunning views of the N.S.W state capital.

Everyone who wishes is equipped with a special suit and insurance. The bridge is rightfully considered one of the main decorations of the urban landscape.

The unique tower of the city of Sydney

It is called "Centrepoint Tower" ("Central Point"). The structure was built in 1981. It attracts attention from almost any point of view in the metropolis. This is not a telecommunications tower, although there is also a TV zone here. It is designed to be used as a shopping and entertainment complex. It is this design architectural solution as a shopping center, the building has no analogues in the world.

The Tower is open for visits:

• restaurants;
• Cafe;
• the shops;
• cinemas;
• transparent floors;
• several viewing platforms.

The most memorable event for a tourist will be staying on the upper tier. A retractable observation deck is well thought out here. Not everyone agrees to climb to a height of 268 m. But still there are such daredevils among the guests of Australia. The panorama is simply amazing - the city landscape, the amazing illumination of the evening Sydney, the expanses of the ocean. Impressions will remain, indeed, sharpened and inspiring.

Another name for the tower is "Needle to Heaven". Photographs are allowed for free.

Former residence of the English monarchy - Queen Victoria House

Sydney is famous not only for the beauty of buildings in a modern style. He also carefully preserved the historical antiquity. In the business district of Sydney - the capital of the state of New South Wales (N.S.W.), a building of historical significance is located. It stands out from the whole ensemble with its Gothic style, serving as a highlight of the urban look. The building was built in 1898 by a Scottish architect.

Important! Today it is used as a modern shopping center. Therefore, lovers of shopping and architectural value will be especially interested in this object.

Working mode:

• Mon-Wed, Fri, Sat - 9:00-18:00;
• Thu - 9:00-21:00;
• Sun - 11:00-17:00.

Free admission.

You can get to the House by bus routes - 412, 413, 422, 423, 426, 428, 431, 433, 436, 438, 439, 440, 470, 500, 501. Inside there are many different boutiques, jewelry stores, British-style cafeterias .

War memorial - the memory of the soldiers of Australia

Located in the city of Canberra, which is the capital of Australia. The idea of ​​organizing a memorial in honor of the fallen soldiers belonged to Charles Bean. The project was created in 1917, but it was built only in 1941. I had to conduct extensive research of documents in order to compile a list of those killed in various battles (I, II World Wars).

What is here:

• memorial zone;
• museum;
• research center;
• theatre;
• newsreel;
• themed rooms dedicated to valor, aviation, ANZAC (heavy weaponry);
• Cafe;
• sculpture garden, etc.

The entrance is free. Working hours - from 10:00 to 17:00.

The memorial museum is considered the only one in the world in terms of scale. Here are collected huge collections of weapons, uniforms, art objects and other things related to the military theme.

Popular in the country area "Albert Hall"

The Albert Hall can be found in Canberra on Commonwealth Avenue. The style follows the Royal Albert Hall in England. After the opening in 1928, a modification was made - an organ was installed (1980). It is noteworthy that it was delivered from the UK, the Odeon Theatre. Now the concert hall is included in the list of objects of national heritage of the country.

Today, various musical events of the city and timed to coincide with the celebrations of the common holidays of the country are held here. The hall is rented for parties, banquets.

Modern skyscraper-tower "Eureka"

The skyscraper was built in 2006. The overall budget was close to 2 million Australian dollars. It was located in one of the major cities - Perth (western part of the mainland). The height of the skyscraper is 200 m, but if other details (for example, underground floors) are taken into account, then the tower will reach a height of 297 m. Total floors built - 91 above ground and 9 - parking (including underground - 1 this.). The entire structure is steel, the frame is concrete.

The observation deck is located on the 88th floor. The building is surrounded by beautiful steam with the Yarra River, along which you can walk and take pictures against the backdrop of a miracle of modern architecture.

Wonder of the World - Ocean Road

Like the Chinese Wall, the Australian road is also called the Great. It would be a great remiss not to ride on this miracle of human engineering. The length is - 243 km. And they all stretch along the coast of the ocean.

Use is possible at any time of the year. The road is free.

To find such a road, it is enough to come to the state of Victoria. There is also a walking route running parallel to the roadway. It is open mainly for those who like to admire the beauties of the water element and the original flat-rocky land landscapes.

Here you can see interesting 8 rocks protruding from the water, as well as the Grotto and Locke Ard ridges.

The beautiful Melbourne Cathedral of St. Paul

The cathedral belongs to the Anglican Church. Divine services are still held there. Therefore, everyone is kindly invited not only to admire the majestic building, but also to pray. The construction of a historical building dates back to the 19th century.

Working hours:

• Mon-Fri - 8:00-18:00;
• Sat - 9:00-16:00;
• Sun - 8:00-19:00.

There is no entry fee.

The architecture is dominated by Gothic - numerous spiers raised to the heavens, turrets elongated upwards, round and arched structures of window and doorways, lattice finishing of plaster, red brick and more. There is also an organ, which is rightfully considered the largest in the world, which was equipped in the 19th century.

At the entrance to the cathedral there are small shops-kiosks where you can buy small temple paraphernalia and souvenirs.

The original opera house in Sydney

This original architectural object is a visiting card of Australia. Built in the form of a shell that dissolves its shells. Here, 5 performances can be shown at the same time. Cafes, restaurants, bars, souvenir shops are also included in the area.

Halls are designed for the following number of spectators:

• concert - 2500 people;
• opera - 1500 people;
• drama productions - over 500 people.

There are also small drama and comedy halls, theater studios. And one hall - under the open sky.

The white sandy beach of Bondi

10 km from Sydney, you can see the stunningly beautiful and well-groomed Bondi Beach (in the language of the locals - “Wave breaking on the rocks”). This is a popular place among Australians and visitors. But it is also included in the TOP 10 of the best beaches in the world!

You can come here at any time of the year. The entrance is free.

The beach is equipped for:

• jogging;
• beach volleyball and other sports games;
• holding competitions, races;
• recreation.

Comfortable sun loungers, umbrellas, clean soft white sand and gentle water - all in order to swim and sunbathe with maximum comfort. Water surfers often come here to ride the azure waves.

The length of the strip is within 1 km, the width is 50-100 m. Please note when you swim that a net is provided in the water - a special fence that protects vacationers from sharks.

Twelve rock "apostles"

The attraction is located in the state of Victoria. These are limestone rocks of the Great Ocean Road. Their number does not coincide with the name "Twelve Apostles" from the fact that over time the rocks collapse and are washed away by waves. Today there are 8 of them, not 12. The last one, the 9th rock, was destroyed by the force of water in 2005. But the name stuck as a memorable one.

There is a tourist center

• helicopter flight;
• hiking on the beach.

You can come and admire the rock formations in any season. Payment is not provided.

Great Barrier Reef

The reef is interesting not only for tourists, but also for scientists. The length of the barrier is 2600 km. A large accumulation of reefs (about 3000) and a large number of islands (about 900) allow a large number of tourists to come here to relax, athletes to compete, and scientists to explore unique varieties of flora and fauna.

In the water area live:

• 134 species of sharks, rays;
• 1500 species of various fish;
• 411 hard corals;
• 1/3 of the world's soft coral range.

It is offered here:

• Shark watching.
• Diving.
• Relax on the spacious beach.
• Hotels on the ocean.

The reef area is 344,400 km. sq. Great variety of underwater life. This gives ample opportunities for lovers of diving. For students in diving schools there is one advantage - without exception, all students receive PADI certificates,SSI.

Shrine of Australia - Uluru (or - Ayers Rock)

The rock for the local population is a sacred place. The monolith is the oldest on the planet. It stretches for 2.5 km in length and 348 km in width. Periodically, the color of the rock changes, which is unique and of interest to tourists.

Visiting time - all year round.

The cost for the tour per person is 180 AUD. Duration - 3 days.

Interesting:

• plateau;
• rock color;
• caves;
• rock paintings.

Nearby is the city - Yulara. It has comfortable hotels, cafes and restaurants to stay for a day or two. And a comfortable airport allows a tourist group of visitors to quickly move to a historical destination and back.

You can get to your destination using a transfer, which is easy to order both upon arrival at the airport and at the hotel. You can separately (for a fee) order the service of a private Russian guide.

Magic of the Blue Mountains

This name has taken root to the mountain range to the west of Sydney because they are periodically covered with bluish evaporation of moisture. Mostly the surface is covered with eucalyptus forests. An impressive part of this area is listed by the state as a National Park (UNESCO). It is best to start traveling through the mountains from the city of Katoomba. This is also a picturesque place where there is:

• waterfalls;
• caves;
• canyons;
• the woods;
• mountain railway of the town of Katoomba.

Arrival time - any season of the year. Payment is provided for visiting individual objects. It is not provided by the State Department.

There are some sections of the tourist trails where entry is prohibited due to landslides and other hazards.

Kakadu Park

Another National Park, which is called "Kakadu" in honor of one of the local tribes. It is located 171 km from Darwin. Therefore, it has nothing to do with the bird. It is located south of the coastline for 200 km, and from west to east - 100-150 km. The park is visited all year round.

For tourists it will be interesting to see here:

• beautiful landscapes, surprisingly not similar to other similar world objects;
• rare birds;
• animal species;
• many interesting reptiles;
• red rocks, which is why the place is called the "Red Heart of Australia";
• caves;
• alligator river;
• rainforests;
• wastelands.

For lovers of archaeological subjects, there are two unique objects - caves, where mysterious rock paintings were found. Their age is dated no more, no less - 18,000 years.

In the village of Jabiru Park there is a visitor center for guests - "Bovali". There you can study information stands about animals, birds, plants, buy souvenirs.

Philippine Penguin Parade

On Phillip Island you can see an interesting sight - a mass procession of penguins. Every day, little penguins march to the ocean, and at sunset they return to land to their homes. Millions of tourists flock to this event at any time of the year to watch such a show.

Entrance fee to the Koala Conservation Center and to see the Penguin Parade:

• adults - $17;
• children - $10.

Photographing the procession is prohibited. This is due to the fact that you can scare away birds with camera flashes.

The island is also famous for its Koala Sanctuary. There are three ways to get to it: by boat (from the Cultural Center Pontoon embankment in Brisbane, Queensland), by car (buses No. 430, 445), by car rental (GPS coordinates: 27.533333,152.96861).

Hospitable Queensland Zoo

The Australian Zoo is located in Beerwah, pc. Queensland. Once upon a time, the world-famous long-lived tortoise (175 years old) - Henrietta, lived here. Ch.Darwin studied it.

The zoo has many viewing platforms equipped with seats for visitors. In the center is a stadium where you can watch performances of crocodiles and other animals. Comfortable conditions are also created for its abode: tigers, elephants, rare birds, cheetahs, turtles, lemurs, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, kangaroos.

The Temple of the Tiger is also interesting here - a transparent pavilion in which 15 individuals of various species of the cat family live.

Stone Wave Invincibility

The pretentiousness of natural phenomena often makes one admire its strength and originality. Near the small town of Hayden (350 km from Perth) in the western part of the Australian mainland, it is not clear how a stone block in the form of a wave was formed. You can get there in 4 hours by any vehicle. More than 140,000 tourists come to see this miracle every year. Science dates the formation of the granite rock to 60 million years ago!

When can you visit? In any season. The price for climbing the rock varies, you need to specify.

The height of the phenomenal boulder is about 15 m, the length is 110 m. Its originality is in the change in the shade of the rock with the difference in daily lighting. On a specially adapted ladder, you can even go upstairs.

The Romance of Cape Byron

It is located on the easternmost point of the mainland. The cape received its name in 1770 from the English sailor and traveler James Cook. From the cape it is very convenient to admire the vastness of the ocean, a beautiful architectural water structure - a white lighthouse. Tourists are attracted by the attraction precisely for its beauty and inspiring romance.

Time of stay - any (as agreed with the organizers of the tour). The price varies depending on the type of travel.

Due to its location, the cape allows tourists to be the first in Australia to meet the sunrise. Here they watch humpback whales, turtles, stingrays. You can admire the vastness of the Gondwanan forests, Mount Warning National Park after climbing to the ancient volcanic crater.

Natural phenomenon - horizontal waterfalls

To the north-west of the mainland itself, you can find an interesting phenomenon of the water element. Ocean water flows between the rocky island formations. When the tide increases, a strong current forms in the channels. In addition, it is formed by the narrowness of the clefts of the rocks. And the difference in the levels of the thresholds gives the water even more dynamics. As a result, we have a great view - seething waterfalls. But they are almost horizontal!

The height of the thresholds is 5 m, width - 10 m, 20 m. For a fee, you can order an air tour by helicopter or a small seaplane. Land cruises last 4-14 days. They are usually booked between April and October.

Wild sandy island Fraser and Unique Fr. middle island

Previously, such an island was simply called "Paradise". This name was given to him by the natives who lived here. Natural expanses remained practically unaffected by human civilization. Therefore, this area is interesting for many unique wild plants and fauna.

You can look at the unique "hanging" lakes from afar, which received such a name because of the visual floating effect on the island above the salty ocean surface. Scientists still do not understand how fresh water appears in lakes in the absence of rivers and other sources. Presumably from marsh streams and springs. Today, this attraction is protected and put in order because it is on the verge of extinction due to heavy pollution by tourists.

The season for tourists is all year round. The cost of walks is not set at the state level.

In total, there are over 40 lakes with fresh water on the island. Here you can also admire the dunes. Some reach a height of up to 240 m.

On the west coast of the island are beautiful mangrove forests. But they have swamps. So walking there without a guide is not recommended.

On the island of Middle Island, located in the southwestern part of Australia, there is a unique object - pink Lake Hillier. Its water is really that color. And scientists still have not solved the mystery of why water acquires such a shade. She is salty. Salt was mined in the lake. True, not for long - only 6 years (beginning of the 20th century).

You can also take a walk around the lake in the eucalyptus forest or along the beach with snow-white soft sand.

Barros Valley - the origin of Australian wines

The Barros Valley is located on the southwestern side of the Green Continent, 60 km from Adelaide. The Northern Para River flows through its territory. One of the many valleys in Australia where grapes are grown and a wonderful drink is prepared according to old recipes

The main road runs through the valley. Therefore, it will not be difficult to get to its cities by any vehicle.

Winemaking is another of the industries that, along with tourism and water sports, significantly boosts the economy of the entire country. In the state of South Australia, this valley belongs to the main wine-growing region. The plantations are owned by the owner of Australia's most famous brand, Penfolds Grange.

Popular tourist activities in the valley:

• Climb to the top of Mangler Hill.
• Australian Wine Festival.
• Riding biker moto.
• Balloon flights.
• Visiting restaurants in the cities of the valley, where wine tasting is offered.

Main three cities:

• Tanunda;
• Nariutpa;
• Angaston.

Time to travel - May-September. The cost depends on the type of event.

This place is worth visiting not only for a visit to the local famous cellars and wine sampling, but also just to admire the beauty. The landscape of farming and horticultural lands and all nature in general fascinate the eye!

The wine festival in Australia lasts a long time - a whole week! But it is held only once every 2 years.

Memorial Port Arthur (prison)

The attraction is located in a plane isolated from the continent - to the southeast of it on about. Tasman in the state of the same name. The distance between Australia and the island is 240 km, from Hobart - 97 km. Separates the island and the mainland by watering Bass. Nearby there are also other islands - Kang, Flinders, Macquarie and others.

Visiting time - any. The cost is included in the tour.

Today, there are quests and real attractions "Ghost Journey" and stuff like that. You need to dress warmly for the visit. The island has a rather cold and damp climate.

After the colonization of Australia by Europeans, criminals were often exiled to Tasmania and imprisoned. The most terrible place for convicts was the Port Arthur prison. Today the building and the church are well preserved and serve as a museum. A visit to such an object allows you to get an idea of ​​\u200b\u200bhow the convicts lived during the time of the operating prison.

The southernmost part of the inhabited planet - Tasmania

The cluster of islands is remarkable not only for its unique location, but also for its popularity among tourists and sportsmen. This Australian state is considered one of the southernmost inhabited points of the planet because the ocean and another continent, Antarctica, begin further. Beautiful landscapes and unique nature make you admire these places throughout your stay.

It is better to visit the islands during the seasons directly related to public events. If you just want to relax - then April-October - will be ideal for you.

The following sporting events are held annually in Tasmania:

• Regatta - sailing, rowing, where I usually participate in vessels of different classes.
• Racing on water sailboats or yachts.
• Ski activities.

The capital of Tasmania is Hobart. Competitions are usually held on the route from Sydney to Hobart.

For fans of extreme water sports, it will be interesting to know that for the regattas there is a difficult route with different weather conditions on the way.

Tasmania hosts Australia's southernmost ski slopes. In total, there are 28 mountains, which are measured in height - more than 1220 m. The highest point - Legs Tor - is located in the Ben Lomond mountain range. It is 60 km from Launceston.

The lowest point is 1500 m, the highest is 1780, drops, jumps - up to 280 m. The best time to come is during the skiing season - June-September.

Useful information from a professional traveler

As soon as you arrive in Australia and settle in the department, you need to immediately find out and book places on your favorite tours and excursions. It is very convenient - on the basis of hotels, to choose where you must go without looking for the Australian tourist Center.

One of the popular such centers is Darling Harbor in Sydney. Opening hours from 8:00 to 20:00.

If you want to admire such a miracle of nature as the Horizontal Falls in Australia, you need to take into account the time of low tide and high tide. Moreover, take an interest on the website of the local Hydrometeorological Center about the strength of the current of the tidal stream. Because when there are no strong by-catch, then, alas, the turbulent water waterfalls disappear.

Feedback from a tourist

Oleg Barkovsky.

“I did not expect the Port Arthur hard labor museum to be so interesting. Especially when you go around all the expositions with a guide. Without a guide talking about the old days, there is, in fact, nothing to do. The visit is free, but the price for the services of a guide is included in the price of the tour. Each building is interesting in its own way. The prison itself is destroyed, but the walls are still standing. Of all the museums I've been to in Australia, this is the most amazing place I've ever visited that talks about Australian history."

Australia seems to us a mysterious and distant country. Thinking about it, kangaroos, the ocean, crocodiles and "antipodes" walking upside down from Kipling's fairy tale "Alice in Wonderland" come to mind. And what other sights of Australia can be seen?

When deciding what to see in Australia, remember that it is simply impossible to explore the whole country in a couple of days, because it is too huge and diverse. In order to see and fall in love with Australia, you need at least a month to travel through its vast expanses.

We bring to your attention only the most famous sights of Australia with the name, photo and a brief description. This amazing country will surely interest you and encourage you to go on an amazing journey to the other side of the world.

Perhaps the most interesting natural place in Australia, known to every schoolchild, is this. Indeed, this is the world's largest living coral reef, located in the northeast, near the coast of this continent. Interestingly, it is included in the well-known UNESCO list as a World Heritage Site. This giant natural reef is visible from space and is considered a true wonder of the world.

Australian aborigines use the coral islands that make up the Great Barrier Reef tens of thousands of years ago. The notorious Captain James Cook arrived here at the end of the 18th century. The reef has been explored and studied by biologists from all over the world for the third century. Today it is the most favorite place for divers and boat lovers. Here you can see the underwater and surface marine world in all its glory. This unique reef has been named a large marine park by the government.

This is one of the most famous musical theaters in the world. The opera house has become a symbol and hallmark of the city of Sydney, the main cultural attraction of Australia. The theater stands in Sydney Harbor, where there was once a fort in its place. Its building looks like a sailboat sailing on the sea surface. The architecture of the theater is attributed by experts to the new expressionism. It was opened in 1973, and today it is included in the UNESCO list.

This is an architectural wonder of the world, which even today delights specialists and ordinary people with its structure, external beauty and magnificent interior decoration. The best classical and modern opera singers perform at the Sydney Opera House, and world-famous opera directors work. This is one of the centers of world opera art. If you visit this city, be sure to go to its opera house, you will get a real pleasure from its opera and architectural personality. This building is also called the Opera House.

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

This unique natural landmark of Australia is a beautiful oval orange rock that arose many hundreds of millions of years ago. A nearby airport is named after her. At the base of Uluru there are many caves, the walls of which are covered with ancient rock art and carvings. For the natives, this is a sacred place; they still conduct their rituals near the rock.

This rock in the middle of the desert was discovered for Europeans in the second half of the 19th century, and was first named after a local statesman. Only a hundred years later, she was returned to the name given by the natives. Uluru is made up of red sandstone. He is able to change color within 24 hours: black, purple, purple, red, pink, gold. These changes look fantastic. Today, the whole area is a national park, it was visited by about half a million tourists.

This cape was discovered for Europe in the second half of the 18th century by the famous James Cook. He gave him the name of the famous British navigator - John Cook, the ancestor of the poet Lord George Byron. This attraction on the map occupies the easternmost point of Australia. Cape Byron is very popular with tourists who like to walk along the trail to see the first sunrise in the country.

From Cape Byron you can admire the life of humpback whales, sharks, turtles, dolphins living in unusually clear and clean sea water. Here you can see the volcano located nearby in the national park, extinct many millennia ago, the magnificent Minyan waterfall. Separately, we can say about the lighthouse at Cape Byron, it is considered one of the most beautiful in Australia. The lighthouse was built at the beginning of the last century, and since then you can see all the splendor of the Pacific Ocean from its observation deck.

Australia is one of the best and favorite travel destinations. This country consists of the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania and several other small islands. Australia is estimated to be the sixth largest country in the world. It has some wonders that make it different from the rest of the world. Below is a list with photos and short descriptions of the top ten attractions in Australia.

The Kakadu National Park, whose name comes from the Kakadu tribe that lived in this territory, is located in the northern part of Australia, 171 km east of the city of Darwin. Was created in 1981. It covers an area of ​​19,804 square kilometers (equivalent to the size of Slovenia, or almost half of Switzerland) and is the world's largest protected area. The park is home to over 280 bird species, about 60 mammal species, over 50 freshwater fish species, over 10,000 insect species, about 117 reptile species, and over 1,600 plant species. The main attractions of Kakadu Park are the picturesque Jim-Jim and Twin Falls.

In ninth place in the ranking of the main attractions of Australia is located Kings Canyon (Kings Canyon), which is part and the main attraction of the Watarrka National Park in the Northern Territory, Australia. Kings Canyon is located 1316 km south of the city of Darwin. Ernest Giles was the first to discover it in 1872. The canyon is made up of impressive, over 100 meters high stone walls that range in color from red and yellow to white. Part of the gorge is sacred to the natives, so tourists are advised not to deviate from the footpaths.

Uluru or Ayers Rock is a large orange-brown oval-shaped rock located in the north-central part of Australia in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, 18 km from the city of Yulara. It is one of the most famous visiting cards of Australia and is famous, first of all, for its ability to change color depending on the incidence of light at different times of the day and at different times of the year. It is also of great cultural importance to local landowners who organize walking tours to acquaint tourists with the local flora, fauna and stories of the natives who revere Uluru as a sacred place and believe that under its surface there is a huge cavity in which the owner of the mountain lives - water python. The cliff is 3.6 km long, about 3 km wide, and 348 meters high.

The seventh place in the list of the main attractions of Australia goes to the Outback. This is a vast sparsely populated arid region in Central Australia. It covers an area of ​​about 5.36 million square kilometers, or approximately 70% of the area of ​​the entire continent. According to the 2006 census, there were 690,000 people living in the Outback, 17% of whom were Australian Aboriginals.

The Pinnacles is a desert located within the Nambung National Park near the city of Cervantes in Western Australia. It got its name from the towering 1-5 meters of free-standing stones, which are a combination of the remains of trees that once grew here, as well as the remains of sea shells and marine life deposited during previous geological epochs when this territory was covered by the sea. According to the legend of the natives, these rocks are the enemies of the ancient tribes, which were turned by the Gods into stone pedestals.

Lord Howe is a small volcanic island located in the Tasman Sea (Pacific Ocean) about 600 km east of Australia. On the island, whose age is estimated at about 20 million years, there are 2 national parks, occupying 70% of its entire territory. Lord Howe was opened on February 17, 1788 by Briton Henry Lidgbeard. Its area is 14.6 square kilometers and its shape resembles a boomerang. About 300-350 people live here permanently. At the same time, 400 more tourists are allowed on the island. In 1982, along with the offshore islands, Lord Howe was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Mount Olga or Kata Tjuta is a group of 36 massive rounded rocks and many gorges and valleys. It is located approximately 365 km southwest of the city of Alice Springs, in the southern part of the Northern Territory, in central Australia. The name "Kata Tjuta" in the language of the natives means "many heads" and among the locals this mountain is sacred. Many rituals have been and are being held here. One of the former ceremonies held in this place were public executions in extremely harsh forms. The European name Olga, the mountain was given in honor of the Queen of Württemberg, Olga Nikolaevna Romanova, by the English traveler Ernest Giles in October 1872. The height of the mountain is 546 meters. Area - 21.68 km. sq.

The Twelve Apostles are a group of limestone rocks located in the ocean off the coast of Port Campbell National Park in the Australian state of Victoria. At first this place was called "Pig and Pigs". However, in the 1950s, the name was changed to "The Twelve Apostles" (although then there were nine rocks) in order to attract more tourists. The height of some columns reaches approximately 45 meters. The continuous process of erosion leads to the fact that these columns are gradually destroyed. So, on July 2, 2005, at about 9:00 am local time, in front of many tourists, unable to withstand erosion, one of the highest (about 50 m) collapsed. Currently, there are 8 of them left. Due to their appearance and small distance from each other, these rocks have made this place a popular tourist attraction in Australia.

The Sydney Opera House is a Modern Expressionist musical theater located at Bennelong Point in Sydney. This is one of the most famous, most modern and easily recognizable buildings in the world, designed by the Danish architect Jorn Utzon, who was awarded the most prestigious award in architecture - the Pritzker Prize. The construction of this modern architectural wonder began in March 1959, and its official opening took place on October 20, 1973 - Queen Elizabeth II attended the ceremony. In June 2007, the Sydney Opera House was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with such attractions as the Egyptian pyramids, the Taj Mahal in India, and others.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, along the east coast of Australia. This is the largest single structure on earth, created by living organisms, which is visible even from space (in the form of a white stripe against the background of the blue ocean). Its total area is 348,698 km², larger than the area of ​​Great Britain. The Great Barrier Reef is made up of millions of tiny organisms called coral polyps that are found underwater and exposed at low tide. This is the main attraction of Australia, bringing the country about 1 billion US dollars a year. Included in the list

Australia is an amazing country of contrasts. It is simultaneously the smallest continent and the largest island. It is not particularly open to migrants, but thus attracts tourists who want to conquer its pristine beauty.

It is in Australia that megacities are combined with endless land untouched by man. Its unique nature reserves have been included in the World Heritage lists for a reason, there really is something that is not found in other places.

What to visit in Australia so that after the trip you have the best memories?

1 Sydney Opera House

When Australia is mentioned, the first thing that comes to mind is huge billowing white sails. The building of the Sydney Opera House has been the hallmark of the whole country for many years. It is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is famous all over the world. It has no analogues, it is not surprising that the theater is the most recognizable building in the world. Here you can not only take a cultural walk, but also visit the Royal Botanic Gardens.

2 Great Barrier Reef

A real miracle is the largest living structure on the planet, another UNESCO site, the Great Barrier Reef. It can also be seen only by visiting Australia. This unique formation, visible from space, consists of 2900 coral reefs and 900 islets. Protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, this place has everything you need for a great vacation. Diving, boat trips, snorkeling and acquaintance with 1600 species of tropical fish will surprise even the most sophisticated traveler!

3 Kakadu National Park

This park is considered the largest in Australia and the second largest in the world. This place is a real treasure for those who love virgin nature. Here you can find unique species of birds, reptiles, plants, insects and fish. The territory of the park is surrounded by natural ledges and is located as if in a reservation, creating a unique natural world. Here you can also see Aboriginal rock art, and some drawings are more than 18 thousand years old. The park is also included in the list of UNESCO sites.

4 Blue Mountains National Park

This national park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located to the west of Sydney and is a popular day camping destination. Almost 1,500 square kilometers of mountains, forests and pristine beauty got their name for a reason. The blue mountains became due to the fact that a lot of eucalyptus trees grow here. They evaporate a lot of essential oils, which create a bluish haze in the air. Incredibly beautiful!

5 Fraser Island

And another example of World Heritage - the largest sandy island in the world. He keeps the skeletons of rusty ships that have fallen into his net. Its area is over 1800 sq. kilometers, on its territory there are about 40 fresh lakes, as well as mangrove forests and swamps. Herds of horses, Dingo dogs, rare species of birds and animals roam freely here.

6 Daintree National Park

In the state of Queensland you can find a unique place on Earth, where the last virgin rainforests have been preserved. Daintree Park is included in the UNESCO list because of its unique ecosystem. More than 12 thousand insects live here, 30% of all reptiles in Australia and 18% of all birds. In the park, you can visit Cape Misfortune, where James Cook's ship was wrecked, look at the life of the Kuku Yalanji tribe and meet unique animals.

7 Harbor Bridge

Along with the Opera House, the Harbor Bridge is a symbol of Sydney and all of Australia. The inhabitants of the city jokingly nicknamed him "hanger". And in the world it is known as the largest steel arch bridge. Stretching for 500 meters, it rises 134 meters above the harbor. What a tourist must do is to climb with a guide to the top of the bridge and enjoy the view.

8 Yarra Valley

This valley does not really stand out among other attractions of this unique country. But its main advantage is a unique offer for fans of extreme sports. You can take a hot air balloon flight over this valley and enjoy the view of vast vineyards and charming farms. Also, the traveler will see Melbourne in all its glory from a bird's eye view.

9 Sea world

If there is no time to go to the Great Barrier Reef, you can enjoy water activities in Australia's largest marine park - SeaWorld. The only polar bear in the country, penguins, dolphins, stingrays and other inhabitants of the seas live here. In addition, the park can offer a lot of entertainment and attractions - you definitely won't be bored!

10 great ocean road

In the state of Victoria, you can drive along the Pacific coast for almost 300 kilometers and see incredible beauty. The Great Ocean Road is beautiful on its own, but you can also visit outstanding natural formations along the way. There is the famous London Arch, Lock Ard Ridge, Grotto and, of course, the Twelve Apostles.

11 Uluru

In the very center of Australia, there is another favorite place for tourists. It is the most photographed in the country and for good reason. Uluru is a huge red monolith that formed 680 million years ago. It rises 348 meters above the surface, but most of the monolith is hidden underground. Every year it is visited by about 500 thousand tourists.

12 Kangaroo Island

What is Australia without kangaroos? To see these unique animals in their natural habitat, you can visit Kangaroo Island. It is the third largest in Australia and is great for tourists. There are a lot of national parks here, as well as many species of animals that live only on this continent.

This selection absolutely proves that it is one of the most unique places on our planet. Of course, these are not all of its wonders, but some of the most favorite destinations for tourists!

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