Australia interesting places. Beautiful places in Australia. Review from a tourist

Wondering what to visit in Australia , be sure to write a landmark such as Lake Hillier , in your travel plan. A picturesque lake, the waters of which have an extraordinary 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 Hill Hill lake. Even more expressiveness to the lake is given by a spectacular frame of sand and salt, which are located along its shores.

Lake Hillier acquired the status of a tourist attraction in Australia precisely because of its originality. Travelers from all over the world come to the shores of the unique lake to see with their own eyes that the water in it is really pink. What is the secret of this shade of water? Despite numerous studies, there is no exact answer to this question to this day.

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

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

3. Blue Mountains (New South Wales)

Lovers of contemplating natural landscapes untouched by civilization will definitely find what to see in Australia , because on its territory is located a unique miracle of nature - the Blue Mountains National Park. This area acquired its name for a reason. A huge number of eucalyptus forests growing on the mountain range constantly emit essential oil vapors into the air. The sun's rays, refracting 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, about 1300 m above sea level.

Sandy plateaus, cut by gorges and canyons, are interspersed with many crystal clear mountain rivers and streams, creating an amazingly beautiful landscape. Unsurprisingly, the national park has become one of Australia's most popular attractions.

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

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, Sacred Place, Red Mountain - all these honors were awarded to Mount Uluru, also called Ayers Rock. This is one of the most recognizable natural attractions in Australia, one of the main symbols of the continent. During the day, its red-orange rock is capable of changing color: at dawn, the mountain has the lightest shade, with the rising of the sun at the zenith it turns purple-red, then pink and, finally, 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 of the rocks collapsed and settled, forming a rock. Now in the desert, where Uluru is located, winds are blowing, heavy rains are falling, creating deep cracks on the surface of the mountain.

The fantastic red rock, reminiscent of 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, testifying to the life of ancient people.

5. Valley of the Yarra River (Melbourne)

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 formed on these lands, which today harvest excellent harvests here.

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

• For example, you can visit one of the many reserves that exist here, admire the breathtaking wildlife, see representatives of the local fauna, such as kangaroos, wombats, emus and some species of birds of prey.
• Everyone will find a memorable thing for themselves 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 experience the local flavor and learn as much as possible about the mysterious valley.

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

Feel the Australian atmosphere in this beautiful video!

6. Opera House (Sydney)

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

For example, the landscape of Sydney is unambiguously 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 theater, original in shape, the Dane presented Sydney with the symbol of the city, by which now almost every inhabitant of the planet will recognize 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 roof vaults are covered with countless tiles that reflect the sun's rays to create an unusual color scheme. The opera house has always attracted the attention of tourists with the originality of its forms, and therefore this architectural creation has become almost an integral part of any.

7. Kangaroo Island (Saint Vincent Bay)

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

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 forms, located at a low altitude above sea level.

Not far from the Remarkable Cliffs is another landmark of Australia - the Admiral's Arch. 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)

Australia is rich in amazing places that attract the attention of tourists from all over the world. Among them - Lake Gippsland, which is sometimes also called "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 mesmerizing bluish glow emanates from the 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 a reservoir to emit a kind of light that we see in the dark. In general, such light is emitted constantly, 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 to the eye at night, during the day you can also enjoy the extraordinary beauty of the landscapes - the lake is surrounded by cliffs and fern forests around the entire perimeter.

9. Royal Canyon (Watarrka National Park)

Located in the Red Center of Australia, the Royal Canyon was once sacred land for local Aborigines. Today it has acquired the status of a landmark in Australia, thanks to its unique appearance and peculiar natural beauty. Formed from sandstone, the steep walls of the canyon, reaching 200 meters in height, have been forming for millions of years, acquiring unusual shapes under the influence of wind erosion. Inside the canyon, dense thickets of ferns and cycads grow, palm forests find shelter for hundreds of species of animals - all this thanks to the canyon walls, which for the local flora and fauna play the role of protection from the desert drought prevailing 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 difficulty, which allows you to enjoy the incredible panoramic landscapes of the canyon, view the unusual rock formations of the Lost City, and go down into the canyon itself - admire the beauty 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 a view of numerous boulders and giant eucalyptus trees opens up, and this route ends at a viewing platform on the hill of the gorge, from where a view of the sheer cliffs opens.
• Finally, the most challenging route, 22 kilometers long, connecting the Royal Canyon and the city of Kathleen Springs, will be able to conquer the most avid travelers.

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

To the south of the mainland, there is another unique attraction of Australia - the island of Tasmania, which is famous all over the world for its uniquely beautiful tropical forests.

The nature of the origin of the island is amazing - the continent of Gondwana, 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 disintegrated into many parts, forming several separate continents, which have retained this appearance to this day.

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

The entire valley abounds in lakes, streams and mountain rivers - such a striking and breathtaking sight will undoubtedly be appreciated by a true traveler.

Attractions in Australia: what else to visit while in Australia

You should think about which places to visit during your vacation long before getting on the plane. Do 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 disappear even at the ends of the earth!

11. Fraser Island (east coast of Australia)

The world of the Green continent is rich and diverse, and Fraser Island is a bright spot on the map of the mainland - another interesting attraction of Australia. The world's largest sandy island consists entirely of sand, which for millennia was applied by sea currents and blown by the winds, 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 on all sides by the salty waters of the ocean, there are more than a hundred freshwater lakes. How many fresh water lakes on an island that is not fed by 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 white sand, and all this is surrounded by wild forests. Among the most picturesque bodies of water is Lake Mackenzie, located 100 meters above the sea, and the largest of them is Lake Boemingham, whose area reaches 200 hectares. In general, Fraser Island has a milder climate than the rest of the mainland due to the high amount of moisture in the air and soil.

12. Big pineapple in Queensland (Wumbai)

Surely they will find something to see in Australia , and lovers of creative architecture. In the state of Queensland, in the town of Wumbai, for many decades, a large pineapple statue has been pleasing tourists with its brightness and positiveness. An incessant stream of inquisitive travelers eager to see this creation does not dry out from year to year. The large 16-meter fiberglass structure was erected here in 1971, when the Taylors, having built a small farm and recreation park, decided to attract the attention of visitors. We have to admit 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 - donkeys, pigs, and exotic ones - for example, alpaca, whose valuable wool is used to make various woolen products, live here.

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

Visitors also have the opportunity to watch pineapples and the Australian macadamia nut being grown on local plantations.

13. Rock "Stone Wave" (Western Australia)

An amazingly beautiful landmark of Australia in the form of an unusual rock formation is located in the west of the mainland. This is the rock "Stone Wave", the name of which is due to its shape - outwardly, this miracle of nature looks like a huge sea wave stirred up right in the middle of the land. Every year hundreds of thousands of tourists come to see this stone statue. The visible part of the "wave", towering above the ground, is about 15 meters in height, and over a hundred meters in length.

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

One of Australia's most famous and recognizable landmarks has become the Twelve Apostles rock group, which 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 in 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 richness of colors.

The age of these rocky formations is tens of millions of years: year after year, waves and wind destroyed 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 "12 Apostles" rocks.

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

15. Kuranda (Queensland)

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

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

16. Queen Victoria House (Sydney)

When exploring Sydney's attractions, you can start with some of the most emblematic monuments, such as the Queen Victoria House, which rises 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 has existed here since the beginning of the 19th century. Today, this place is an impressive shopping mall, which houses a variety of fashion boutiques, cafeterias, jewelry stores and more. Recognizable elements of the building are exquisite stained glass windows, a mosaic floor, a characteristic staircase that is one of the ten most beautiful staircases in the world, as well as an interior made in a traditional Gothic style. A majestic monument dedicated to the Queen rises right in front of the entrance to the house, and a separate cause of admiration is the Great Australian Clock, which shows the history of the country in pictures.

17. Harbor Bridge (Sydney)

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

18. Sydney Tower (Sydney)

Among other things, Australia is known for high-rise buildings, one of which is the Sydney Tower - the tallest 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 6 years later the building was opened to the public. The building consists of three main sections with viewing platforms, and you can get to any of them using one of three high-speed elevators. The first section is a closed observation deck at a height of 250 meters with a 360 ° viewing angle, the second section is a platform 18 meters higher than the first, the main trump card of which is a glass transparent 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 for up to 220 people.

19.St Paul's Cathedral (Melbourne)

Choosing the historical and cultural attractions of Australia , you cannot do without one of the country's religious symbols - St. Paul's Cathedral, located in the historic district of Melbourne. This is the largest Anglican church in the neo-Gothic style, which at the time of construction was the tallest structure in Melbourne. One of the main values ​​of the cathedral is the largest organ from Great Britain, created by the English master T. Lewis and containing 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 the tallest Anglican cathedral in the world. Previously, there was a stone parish church, 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)

Kakadu Park will certainly appeal to those who love ecotourism, natural attractions , is interested in archeology and history. This is a picturesque spot on the continent, where you can see wildlife in all its beauty and diversity. It is a plateau surrounded by rocks, where there are rain forests, savannahs, rivers and waterfalls. Each of these sites is rich in 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 to some waterfalls are carried out. The reserve is managed by the Aboriginal community and they conduct educational excursions here, demonstrating local customs and some distinctive products.

21.Bondi Beach (Sydney)

Sometimes it is enough to download a photo of a sightseeing in Australia to appreciate its beauty and aesthetic appeal. The 6 km long Bondi Beach, located just outside Sydney's city center, is a strip of white sand, clear turquoise waters 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, contests and celebrations. For example, on the beach it has long become a tradition to celebrate Christmas with volleys of grandiose fireworks. At the same time, this place is devoid of excessive pretentiousness and secular glamor, here you can simply soak up the sand, admiring the magnificent landscapes, views of rocks, waves and the coast with its hiking trail that connects Bondi with several other beaches.

22. Australian Zoo (Beerwa)

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 Sydney route. Add variety to your trip, you can go to Queensland to visit the most interesting zoo, which bears the name of Steve Irving. Since childhood, this outstanding nature lover has shown a great interest in Australian animals - for example, he demonstrated miracles of courage and dexterity, and caught 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. Some of the inhabitants of the park can not only be viewed, but also hand-fed, and even stroked. Visitors are deeply impressed by the exciting crocodile show.

23. Penguin Parade (Phillip Island)

Upon arrival in Australia, it is worth buying a travel booklet - Australia is presented there in the form of main attractions, descriptions and ways of how to get there. But if this is enough for a beginner tourist, then the sophisticated traveler will not stop at the standard list of objects - he will look for something new and exotic. For example, go to the island of Philip, famous for its parade of penguins - a huge colony of these birds is registered here. Every day at sunset, penguins, returning from sea hunting, waddle and waddle to their burrows, 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)

If Western Australia, with its dry and sunny climate, is famous for wine-making regions, bizarre rocky formations, sand dunes and ancient eucalyptus trees, then the Great Ocean Road can rightfully be called the most important attraction in 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 from a variety of angles along the winding belt of the road. Basically, the road leads along the ocean, but sometimes it dives inland, passing through vineyards and fantastic rain forests, flashing along the steep foothills of the rocks, allows you to admire grottoes, caves, limestone columns. This amazing path was built in 1932 with the aim of developing tourism.

25. Cape Byron (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, rocks of fantastic shapes, colorful lakes and mountains with eucalyptus forests. Or, without leaving the land, you can go to Cape Byron - the easternmost tip of the mainland. This is a unique place, which, despite the developed infrastructure, retains its wild and pristine appearance, amazes 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 area, is a popular tourist resort with excellent opportunities for water sports.

Wherever you find yourself in the Green Continent, you will undoubtedly receive a warm welcome from the local population, and the nature of Australia will open before you the gates to the wonderful world of tropical forests, crystal clear lakes, untouched lands, far from the usual everyday life and the hustle and bustle of modern civilizations.

The description of Australia's attractions is impressive. Mountains, rocks, gorges, deserts, amazing shores and bays - the shortest listAustralia's landmark names can be hundreds of pages long. Most of them are parks and reserves.What attractions in Australia are not related to nature? Here is a short list of them:

Cape Tribulation ... This unique location is the convergence of two Natural World Heritage National Parks, the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. This is one of the few places in Australia where the rainforest descends directly to the sea.

Australian butterfly sanctuary located in the middle of nature in a village Kuranda , offers to see 2000 species of butterflies.

Lone Pine Sanctuary Koala Sanctuary - the animal home of Australia's wildlife. Kangaroo, possum, Tasmanian devil, wombat, emu and lyrebird live here. And his main pride is about 130 koalas. Here you can see animals and birds without cages or be inside cages with them, get as close as the animal allows.

Lamington National Park -the kingdom of the subtropical jungle. It is a forest with lianas, palms and ancient ferns. A beautiful panorama of mountains and valleys opens up from the Oreilis plateau, almost a kilometer above sea level.

Carrumbin Game Reserve -27 hectares of beautiful landscapes near Carrumbin Beach. In one of the largest Australian parks you can feed kangaroos, parrots, and there is a snake show.

Rottnest Island , Western Australia - a nature reserve off the coast of Perth, an ecologically clean area where it is forbidden to travel by car. Ancient forests of cypress and tea tree have survived here, as well as unique small short-tailed kangaroos - cuocca, mistaken by the Dutch discoverers for rats, who named the island Rottnest, which means "rat's nest".

Kimberly -region of Western Australia, located in the north of the state. Kimberley is 3 times the size of the whole of Great Britain. It is a land of striking contrasts. There are gorgeous Cable Beach in Brumen to the west and rugged red ridges and gorges to the east. Kimberley is home to some of the most ancient landscapes dating back to millions of years.

Geiki Gorge National Park ... The gorge, more than 14 km long, was formed by the waters of the Fitzroy River, which for many years made its way through the ancient coastal limestone barrier reef.

Vindiana Gorge National Park ... East of town Derby is the 3.5 km long Vindiana Gorge, formed by the Lennard River in a 350 million year old limestone reef. The river bed is filled with water only in the summer season, from November to May.

Northern Territory Wildlife Park offers to plunge into the world of wildlife and enjoy the diversity of tropical Australia. Particular attention in the park is paid to the restoration of local animal species that are on the verge of extinction.

Lichfield National Parkis one of the most beautiful parks in the Northern Territory. The park is located 140 km south of Darwin and is famous for its rainforests, natural bodies of water, picturesque cascading waterfalls, the most famous of which are Vangi, Tolmer and Florence.

Nitmiluk National Park is home to the Javoyne people. Over millions of years, rain has carved 13 individual gorges of incredible beauty from the sandstone. You can not only take a boat ride on the river flowing through the gorges and swim in it, but also walk along scenic trails to the Seventin Miley Crystal waterfalls, the Katta-Katta caves and the Mataranka hot thermal springs. The park has the beautiful Katherine Gorge.

Arnhemland is located in the northeast of the Northern Territory and is bordered by the Kakadu National Park, the Coburgi Peninsula by the Arafura Sea. A huge area of ​​the park is occupied by tropical savannas, wild sea beaches, deserted islands, rivers teeming with fish, lush tropical forests, huge snow-white dunes. These lands belong to the aborigines, so you can get here only with a special permit or with a tourist group.

West McDonnell National Park it is a picturesque nature reserve west of Alice Springs. Parallel Ridges McDonnell are among the oldest mountains on the planet. The gorges of extraordinary beauty are home to many endemic plant and animal species. The Simpson Gap is located 20 km from Alice Springs. Part of the McDonnell West Ridge is an Aboriginal sacred gorge and rainwater lake.

Tasmania - an island off the southeastern coast of Australia, separated from the mainland by the Bass Strait. Tasmania is named after the explorer Abel Tasman, who discovered the island. It is the smallest state in the country. There are mountains and hills, valleys with historic cities, plateaus, volcanoes, rainforests, hundreds of lakes and white beaches.

Mount Wellington the height of 1270 m. The top of the mountain is often snow-covered in almost all seasons except the summer. The mountain offers beautiful views of Hobart and its surroundings, including Bruni Island, the Huoney Derwent Valley, and the areas west of Hobart that are classified as national parks.

Southeast National Park -the largest national park in Tasmania. It is a land of majestic mountains, dense forests and green plains. A convict settlement was established on Sarah Island in Macquarie Bay in 1821.

Franklin gordon national park with turbulent, rushing rivers, majestic mountain peaks, dense forests are located in the center of the Tasmania region, included in the list of nature reserves of world importance.

Lake St Clare National Park... In this part of the nature reserve are Mount Cradle, Tasmania's tallest mountain Ossa, Lake St. Clair, the deepest freshwater lake in Australia.

Port Arthur - a former convict settlement, the largest in Australia, which from 1830 to 1877 contained more than 12,500 convicts. There are regular boat trips to the Isle of the Dead, where more than 2,000 people are buried. Port Arthur is located on the Tasmanian Peninsula, famous for its extraordinary rock formations: the Tasmanian Arch and the Devil's Kitchen.

Tasmanian Devil Park located near Port Arthur and the small town of Tarana. Tasmanian devils are fed here every morning at 11 am. Here you can also see typical Tasmanian animals up close, such as wombats, marsupials and others. The park is also a haven for all injured animals.

Mount Field National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Tasmania near Hobart. Eucalyptus and fern trails lead to scenic Russell Falls.

The territory of Australia occupies an entire continent, so the main attractions of the country are natural sites. Australia has many national parks and reserves with a developed tourist infrastructure. Separately, it is worth noting the Australian beaches, they attract not only fans of huge waves - surfers, but also connoisseurs of refined resorts or lovers of a relaxing beach holiday.

The cities are famous for their modern architecture - it was appreciated not only by Australians, but also by the World Organization of UNESCO, including a number of objects in and. There are old age-old buildings, all of which are used for modern needs. Cultural life is represented by museums, art galleries, war memorials.

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What to see and where to go in Australia?

The most interesting and beautiful places to visit, photos and a short description.

1. Great Barrier Reef

An incredible natural phenomenon. The natural complex, consisting of almost a thousand islands and three thousand coral reefs, can be seen even from space - it covers an area of ​​350 km². From the shores of the islands, there are views that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Diving enthusiasts have also long appreciated this place and its beauty, however, remember that during diving, corals should not be touched by hands due to their fragility.

2. Tasmania

Tourists call this place ideal for recreation - a mild climate, picturesque landscapes, unique flora and fauna. The relief of the island allows you to engage in water, mountain, and beach tourism. Many inhabitants of Tasmania are found only here, and relict plant species grow in evergreen forests. Therefore, one fifth of the island is occupied by nature reserves and national parks, which are accessible to visitors.

3. Port Jackson

One of the largest bays in the world. It was in this area that the colonization of Australia began, and it is still of great importance for the country. There are many ports in the bay. Famous landmarks are located on the shores of the bay - the Sydney Opera House and the Harbor Bridge, the unspoken symbols of the country. Ferries in the bay every day carry up to 100 thousand passengers - local residents and tourists.

4. Sydney Opera House

Built in 14 years on the shores of Port Jackson Bay. Its flying silhouette seems to hover over the water surface. Due to its unusual architectural forms, similar to sails, the theater is included in the UNESCO list of protection. The theater complex consists of several halls, the largest of which can accommodate 2,500 spectators. 5 performances can be performed simultaneously. The theater also houses souvenir shops, bars and restaurants.

5. Harbor Bridge (Sydney)

Along with the theater, the opera is the hallmark of Sydney. The length of the bridge is 1200 meters. It is used for automobile, pedestrian and railroad traffic. Its steel arched structure is similar to a coat rack, which is why the locals call the Harbor Bridge among themselves that way. On New Year's Eve, the bridge becomes the main point of attraction for people, because on New Year's Eve hundreds of fireworks are launched from it.

6. Sydney Tower

A popular city landmark with a total height of 305 meters. High-speed elevators lift visitors to a height of 250 meters. There is an observation deck, which offers a panoramic view of the Sydney neighborhood. Tourists can see the skyscrapers of the city, the bay and the ocean against the backdrop of mountains from a bird's eye view. There is a turret under the observation deck that houses a revolving restaurant.

7. Queen Victoria Building (Sydney)

The grand building of the shopping center. Its dimensions are impressive - 190 meters long, 30 meters wide. The Romanesque building was built on the site of the city market in 1918. Its decoration is a copper dome with glass inserts. The interior is decorated with a dial, which is a copy of Big Ben. Each time a small theatrical performance about the life of the royal family takes place with the chimes.

8. Carleton Gardens (Melbourne)

Located in the center of Melbourne, it is a green oasis with a Victorian garden, fountains and two artificial lakes. There are tennis courts and a children's playground. A single complex with gardens is the Royal Exhibition Center, which hosts exhibitions on various topics. The whole complex is under the protection of UNESCO. In addition to the exhibition center, visitors can explore the Melbourne Museum. It consists of 10 galleries of permanent and temporary exhibitions, auditoriums, small theaters, and a research center. There is an IMAX cinema.

9. City Circle tram (Melbourne)

Antique excursion tram. The interior of the tram is quite modern with elements of retro design. Tourists will be especially pleased to know that it is free. Its route is laid near the most notable attractions of the historical center of the city - the Royal Botanic Gardens, Chinatown, the building of Queen Victoria. The journey takes about 40 minutes. For tourists there is an audio guide in English.

10. National Gallery of Victoria (Melbourne)

It is the largest art gallery in Australia. Founded in the 19th century. It exhibits paintings by Van Dyck, Rubens, Monet, Picasso and others. All in all, the gallery funds make up 65,000 exhibits. In addition to paintings, the public is presented with objects of the ancient, vases from the ancient, ceramics. The number of visitors to the Victoria Gallery is about a million people a year.

11. MONA Museum (Hobart)

Founded by a Tasmanian millionaire in 2011. Having made a fortune in gambling and sweepstakes, the tycoon has poured nearly $ 80 million into a museum with an avant-garde art collection. The building is an underground pyramid bunker. Most of the exhibits are not only striking in their originality, but also shock some visitors who are accustomed to classical paintings and sculptures.

12. Australian War Memorial (Canberra)

Erected in honor of the soldiers who participated and died in hostilities. It is one of the most impressive in the world. The memorial complex includes the Hall of Memory and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Memorial Museum and the Research Center. A sculpture garden is also part of the complex. A sculpture of an Australian soldier is installed in it, and plaques with stories about the country's military history are located on the sides of the footpath.

13. Memorial Monument (Melbourne)

Built by the architects who took part in the First World War. Built in the style of classicism from marble in 1934. Its appearance resembles a mausoleum. In its center there is a sanctuary surrounded by a gallery. It contains the Stone of Remembrance. Beneath the sanctuary is a marble room, where the panels list the Australian troops that fought in the First and Second World Wars.

14. Convict settlement Port Arthur

Included in the list of 11 Australian convict settlements built by Britain. All of them constitute a single UNESCO heritage site. Port Arthur is located in Tasmania. This prison was considered the most terrible in the world - it contained the most notorious violators of the law. The prison complex consisted of 60 buildings for various purposes - from punishment cells to the cathedral. Now the remains of the buildings are available for tourists to see.

15. Salamanca Market (Hobart)

Popular outdoor market in Tasmania. Every Saturday, over 300 tents are set up here with a wide variety of amazing products. Vintage jewelry, pine and glass animal figurines, lamps, paintings - the list is endless. Music accompaniment from street musicians gives a special flavor. For relaxation, you can go to a small cafe - eat a national dish with local wine.

16. Melbourne Cricket Ground

Cricket stadium. Was the main site of the 1956 Summer Olympics. Accommodates over 100,000 spectators, making it the tenth largest in the world in terms of capacity. The attendance record is over 120,000 people. The stadium was built in 1884, since then it has been reconstructed and completed several times. Artificial lighting has been installed, which allows games to be played at the stadium at any time of the day.

17. Royal Botanic Gardens of Sydney

Located in the business district of Sydney - a green corner of nature among skyscrapers. The garden area is 30 hectares. The land in this area is not fertile and is not suitable for food crops. The Australian authorities decided to collect plants from all over the country here. Now there are nearly 9,000 plant species and 5,000 trees. The entrance to the garden is free. It is visited by about 3.5 million people a year.

18. Queen's Park (Perth)

Located on the banks of the Swan River in downtown Perth. Covers an area of ​​4 km². The park was founded in 1895 and more than half of it is occupied by the Australian bush. The rest of the territory is planted with trees. The park's botanical garden is home to about 2,000 Australian plants. The pride of the park and botanical garden is the festival of wildflowers, which is held once a year and attracts a large number of visitors.

19. Royal Botanic Gardens of Melbourne

On an area of ​​38 hectares. 12,000 plants have been planted along the Yara River in Melbourne. These are samples of flora not only in Australia, but throughout the world. The total number of plants exceeds 50,000. A branch of the botanical garden is located 50 km from Melbourne. The total area of ​​gardens in this place exceeds 300 hectares. The work of the scientists in the Australian Plants Section of the Branch has won numerous world-class awards.

20. South Shore Park (Brisbane)

Opened in 1992. The territory of the park is not at all like the cityscape - rain forest and savannahs, beaches, lakes and the Brisbane River promenade. The attractions of the park are the 60-meter high Ferris wheel, the Queensland Conservatory, the Nepal Peace Pagoda. Many festivals and entertainment events are held in the park every year. About 11 million people visit the park every year.

21. The Twelve Apostles

Limestone cliffs on the ocean coast. Located in Port Campbell Victoria Park. They are eight, standing not far from each other rocks. Some of them reach a height of 45 meters. Helicopter rides are popular in the area. There are hiking trails through the park to the rocks; you can look at them from a steep cliff. The Twelve Apostles look especially beautiful against the background of the ocean in the rays of the setting sun.

22. Uluru (Ayers Rock)

A natural landmark in the middle of the desert is protected by UNESCO. About 400,000 people visit it annually. It is a brown-orange rock. Its peculiarity is the ability to change color depending on the lighting. At dawn, the color of the rock has a lilac hue, during the day the hue becomes alternately pink, purple, red, gold. The height of the mountain is 348 meters, width is 3.6 km.

23. Blue Mountains

A scenic location in a national park near Sydney. Eucalyptus and ferns grow in the park. The peculiarity of the mountains is the color of their peaks. Drops of eucalyptus oil cover the leaves of the plants and in the sunlight it seems that the tops of the mountains are covered with a bluish haze. There are several observation decks with excellent views on the territory. The Blue Mountains are popular with climbers and mountain bikers.

24. Cockatoo

It is a large national park in Australia. Its dimensions are approximately 200 * 100 km. The flora and fauna are diverse - thousands of species of plants and animals grow and live in the park. The park's caves contain well-preserved rock art by Australian Aborigines. Some of the samples are almost 20,000 years old. For tourists, there are camping grounds, cafes and shops.

25. Horizontal waterfalls

Looking at these waterfalls, the illusion is created that they are not falling from top to bottom, but "horizontally". This effect appears during the ebb and flow. During these periods, water accumulates in gorges and does not have time to leave through narrow passages. The height difference created gives the effect of a waterfall. The water direction changes 3-4 times a day. Some tourists come here just to admire the views, and some for the extreme passage of the waterfalls by boat.

26. Stone Wave

Rock formation of amazing shape. It looks like a giant ocean wave in the middle of land. About 150,000 tourists come here every year to see this natural wonder with their own eyes. A small retaining wall was built to protect it from rock collapse. According to scientists, the rock received such a shape about 60 million years ago. An underground music festival is held in this place every year.

27. Royal Canyon

The canyon is over 2 km long and its walls are 300 meters high. There are two hiking trails along the canyon. The trail along the bottom of the canyon is easier to pass. Walking along it will take about an hour. The second, leading to the top of the canyon, is more difficult and takes about 3-4 hours. However, tourists say the stunning views from the summit are well worth the effort.

28. Cataract Gorge (Launceston)

The gorge is a 15-minute walk from Launceston. The place is popular with both tourists and locals. Here you can relax comfortably - take a dip in the outdoor pool, take a ride on the ski lift, admire the picturesque views of the gorge. Hiking trails are laid along it. Short tracks no more than a kilometer long lead to bridges over small rivers, observation platforms and to the tops of cliffs.

29. Mount Wellington (Tasmania)

A favorite place for active tourists. There are many trails on the slopes of the mountain, some of which can also be traveled by bike. The infrastructure around is poorly equipped - there are no cafes, shops, attractions. Basalt rock ledges are called "Organ pipes" - they are an extremely unusual sight. From the top of the mountain with a height of 1270 meters, in the absence of fog, a view of the national park opens up, 100 km from the mountain.

30. Cape Byron

The cape was discovered in 1770 by the navigator James Cook. The name was given in honor of the world traveler John Byron. In 1901, a lighthouse was erected on the coast of the cape. It is the only active lighthouse during the reign of Queen Victoria. In addition to its practical benefits, the snow-white lighthouse is an adornment of the area and gives it romance. There is an observation deck at the top of the lighthouse.

31. Great Ocean Road

The road is considered a tourist attraction, as it passes through iconic places for Australia. Traveling along this road, you can visit the Lock Ard ridge, Port Campbell National Park, the unusual coast of shipwrecks, the rocks of the Twelve Apostles. The length of the road is 243 km. Some of its sites are considered very dangerous. A 104 km long hiking trail for tourists has been laid along the road.

32. Kuranda Railway

It is considered one of the most dangerous railways in the world. Mostly the 37-kilometer railway line is used by tourists to get a dose of adrenaline. The train travels along fragile-looking bridges over deep gorges. But the risk is justified by the views from the window - the road is laid through rainforests and past several picturesque waterfalls. There is an opportunity to admire exotic plants and mountain peaks.

33. Sandy Fraser Island

Sandy island 120 km long. The width ranges from 7 to 23 km. The dunes that make up the island were formed about 400,000 years ago and can be up to 240 meters high. There are about 40 fresh water lakes on the island. The largest of them is more than 200 hectares in size. The nature of the island is incredibly diverse - a hundred-kilometer white sandy beach, swamps, mangrove and equatorial forests. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

34. Phillip Island Penguin Parade

One of Australia's unusual excursions looks like a show starring little penguins. This happens at the end of the day - penguins form a formation out of their ocean and go to their homes. Penguins spend all day in the ocean collecting food. To unite in organized groups, they are forced by the confrontation of a common danger - large gulls prefer to attack single individuals. Several groups of penguins march for an hour.

35. Kangaroo

The kangaroo is a living symbol of Australia. This amazing animal is featured on the country's coat of arms and on some coins. This is because, apart from this continent, kangaroos do not live anywhere. The number of these animals in Australia exceeds the number of people. There are road signs on the country's highways warning that traffic may be obstructed by kangaroos. They are favorites not only among Australians, but all over the world.

Best beaches in Australia

The most popular and beautiful beaches, photos and a short description.

Manly and Bondi Beaches (Sydney)

The oceanfront location has given Sydney wonderful beaches. Bondi Beach is considered modern and popular. Most of the youth vacationers come with a surfboard. There are many restaurants and bars on the beach, which are rarely empty. Concerts and festivals are often held here. Manly Beach features golden soft sand. It is not for nothing that it is among the best beaches in Sydney - it is always crowded on it. Hundreds of vacationers find entertainment to their liking - swimming, sports games, dancing in bars, cycling.

Surfers Paradise Beach (Gold Coast)

The beachfront capital of Australia's Gold Coast. Surfers Paradise Beach is sometimes referred to as the Australian "Miami Beach". The tallest skyscraper in the country is located here with an observation deck at an altitude of 230 meters. The name of the beach itself implies that it is a great place for surfers - huge waves and warm water. In addition, Surfers Paradise bears the title of exquisite resort, with the option of shopping right on the beach.

Mindil Beach (Darwin)

Sunset time on the beach is the best and most interesting time to visit. At this time, the evening market begins to work here. But before shopping, watching the sun sink into the sea is an obligatory ritual. In addition to the shops, you need to devote time to tasting national dishes. Representatives of 50 nationalities live in Darwin, each of which demonstrates the cuisine of their homeland.

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 vain. The country of kangaroos and koalas combines several climatic zones and is famous for its peculiar landscapes. Flora and fauna are unique 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, the beaches will appeal to both thrill-seekers and connoisseurs 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 unexplored planets.

The Heart Reef was discovered in 1975 by one of the Air Whitsunday pilots. Today it ranks among the most popular destinations in Australia. This attraction is especially held in high esteem by 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 entirely composed of coral polyps. Its dimensions are about 17 meters in diameter. The peculiar shape can only be seen from above. The heart reef 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 the Urulu-Kata Tjuta National Park. It is located in a desert area and extends a good 1,326 square kilometers. The world-wide popularity of the park is due to its specific landscape. The iconic rocks of Kata Tjuta, which is translated 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 King Charles I of Württemberg in 1846. 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 Lake Ballard, 51 metal statues are installed, each of which is unique. The monuments depict the inhabitants of the town of Menzies, founded in 1895 and flourishing in the next decade of the gold rush. The composition was presented at the Perth International Arts Festival in 2003.

The area around Lake Ballard is very original. In the summer, the reservoir dries up almost completely. Salt mixes with clay soil, staining tens of kilometers in a brownish color with whitish veins. Sculptures of Gormley are placed in random order throughout the territory, it will take at least 3 hours to get around everything. The rusty figures stand out clearly against the blue sky and look somewhat intimidating. It seems as if the dead have risen from their graves. I would not like to be there at night.

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

Wherever you look, there is a solid beauty 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. For avid fans of extreme sports, the organizers in charge of leisure activities for tourists will offer to go surfing, diving or kayaking.

Whitehaven Beach is approximately 7 kilometers long and snakes around the coastline of Whitsunday Island. Getting to him is not a problem. Tourist boats leave from the ports of Airlie Beach, Shute Harbor, and Hamilton Island every half hour. Every November, it hosts a triathlon competition as part of the Hamilton Island Triathlon Event. In 2008, Whitehaven Beach received a high government award and was recognized as the best vacation spot in Australia. And in 2015 it was placed in the first place in the ranking of the beaches of the southern part of the Pacific coast.

Crystal water washes over the white sands of 98% pure silicon dioxide. 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 a unique property - it does not conduct heat and therefore does not heat up. You can safely wander barefoot even on the hottest day.

The landscape of the southwestern part of Australia is represented mainly by the sun-scorched plains. There is a small, but definitely worthy of your attention, the Pinnacles Desert. The name of the area literally translates as “desert of pointed rocks”. Impressive limestone blocks of bizarre shapes emerge from the depths 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, the Pinnacles weren't known until the 1960s. Only after the accession of the lands to the territory of the National Park, the area was opened to a wide range of visitors. The ideal travel time 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 an exciting play of shadows. In the late afternoon, ostriches and kangaroos come to the valley.

I never cease to be amazed at the inexhaustible fantasy of Mother Nature. The Great Australian Bight is home to the world's longest solid limestone plateau. The area of ​​the Nullarbor Plain (translated from Latin as "no trees") is about 270 square kilometers. The side facing the ocean is a series of observation decks.

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

The Bangle Bangle mountain range is located 190 kilometers from the town of Halls. The sand ridge is approximately 350 million years old. 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.

The sandstone has a layered structure; dark brown stripes alternate with bright orange ones. For 40 millennia, the area was revered by the aborigines for a shrine. Bangle Bangle is part of the Purnululu National Park, which was declared a World Heritage Site in 2003.

Are you frightened and at the same time delighted by the waves raging in storms on the ocean surface? Then you will definitely be impressed by the stone tsunami. The granite formation covers an area of ​​several hectares. This is all that remains of Hayden Rock. Years of erosion did not pass without leaving 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 erected along the contour of undulating rock at the direction of the Public Works Department. Its main function is to drain sediments into special storage facilities.

A small valley south of Tennath Creek is home to the brightest symbol of the desolate Australian deserts. Karl-Karl, the second name of the site, is used only by Aboriginal people. Rounded boulders, cut from all sides, balance on the ancestral rocks. It seems as if the giant's child was playing with heavy stones, like with cubes, and scattered them around.

According to an ancient legend, Karl-Karl, these are the eggs of the sacred rainbow snake. Old Believers still carry out ceremonies in this area. A later legend says that the devil himself is the culprit for the formation of the natural monument. The official version is much more prosaic. During the drift of the continents, North Australia was a tectonically active zone with frequent volcanic eruptions. Inhomogeneous lava solidified and eroded.

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

The samples were repeatedly subjected to physical and chemical analyzes, but the exact composition of Lake Hiller was never 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 location in the Kimberley region. Horizontal waterfalls are formed due to the significant difference in water level that occurs during high and low tide. The mountain ranges that form the McLarty Rangles stretch towards each other from opposite shores of the bay. They are only 10-15 meters away from contact. An association comes to mind with the Symplegades, who almost killed the Argonauts.

Be sure to visit Talbot Cove and see firsthand how hissing streams rush into a narrow crevice between the nearby cliffs. The direction changes depending on the time of day. You will be amazed by the irresistible pressure falling from a 4-meter height 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 propose to stock up on time and comfortable tents. This area is included in the list of World Heritage Sites. Eucalyptus forests have not changed since the days 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 the stunning tales of love. A striking example, the legend of the three sisters. The girls fell in love with the guys from the neighboring tribe, they reciprocated. 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. Before the decisive battle, the shaman turned the girls into mountains, but died himself and was unable to disenchant Mikhni, Vimla and Ganneda. Three cold stone peaks remained standing, waiting for their betrothed.

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

Early morning and evening are the best times to visit Kangaroo Island. Escape the crowds and admire the sunrise or sunset at a leisurely pace amid impressive natural sculptures. Intertwined in the rock are black mica, bluish quartz, feldspar and pinkish granite. A wooden bridge leads to the sight, eliminating the risk of a painful fall on 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 twentieth century continue to produce tons of precious metal. Super Pete is the largest quarry in the world. For nuggets, 550 workers descend daily to a depth of 360 meters. The size of the pit is growing continuously. Today it is 3500 meters long and 1500 meters wide.

It is not so easy to get to the mine. 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 along the perimeter with a steel mesh. The information board indicates the schedule of explosions required to expand the mines.

A long time ago, fiery chaos reigned on Earth. Volcanoes erupted all over the place, but then the planet returned to normal. One of the largest cliffs in the world is essentially a shard of those hot days. In 1788 it was discovered by the captain of the ship "Seplai" and immodestly gave the island his own name. Naturalists were in no hurry to explore the Ball's 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 Wood Lobster or the Australian Stick insect. The length of the average individual reaches 12 cm, this is without taking into account the legs and antennae. The insect does not pose a danger to humans and feeds on shrubs that grow only on the Ball Pyramid. What can I say, supernatural creatures must live in a supernatural place.

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

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

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

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

Do not sit still, rather pack your things and go ahead towards adventure. By visiting all 18 locations from the selection, you will become the happiest and most tanned representative of the human race. And unsurpassed photographs will complement your album, later you will be proud to show them to your grandchildren and tell stories about unusual places in Australia.

Huge modern megacities, picturesque beaches, the steepest railway slopes, the real capital of UFOs - this and much more attracts tourists from all over the world to Australia.

All the interesting places in Australia, which are undoubtedly worth visiting for every Australian visitor, cannot be reduced to a ten-place rating. Therefore, below are just some of the attractions that most attract tourists.

Great Barrier Reef

It is the most beautiful coral reef in the world.

The Barrier Reef is a veritable ecosystem with the richest fauna and flora, consisting of three thousand coral reefs and occupying more than 300 kilometers of area along the Australian coast of Queensland.

Cape Byron

Cape is the easternmost point of the continent and is considered one of the most beautiful places in all of Australia.

The real visiting card of the cape is the snow-white lighthouse, built in 1901.

There is an observation deck here, from where an incredible, breathtaking view of the surroundings opens.

From the lighthouse, you can watch the life of dolphins, whales and sharks that often visit these places.

Cockington Green Gardens Park

Park in Canberra is a real world in miniature. Here you can see tiny villages and villages, made in different styles.

Small palaces, mills, residential buildings, people, horses - all this completely imitates life in real Mediterranean towns.

The 12 Apostles of Victoria and the Great Ocean Road will impress any traveler.

The Apostles of Victoria are 12 huge limestone rocks protruding directly from the sea.

The amazing coastline also has beautiful grottoes, caves and cliffs.

Red rock ayers rock

It rises in the middle of the desert in central Australia.

Fraser Island

This island is famous for its white sandy beaches, tropical forests, pristine lakes and amazing dunes.

The island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has some interesting Australian animals such as the wild Dingo dogs that roam freely around the island.

Sydney harbor

The harbor has a coastline of 240 km.

Many tourists begin their acquaintance with the sights of Australia right here, admiring the numerous gardens and parks.

It also offers views of world-famous landmarks such as the Harbor Bridge and the quirky Sydney Opera House.

Phillip Island

The island is one of the most beautiful Australian islands with beautiful beaches, located on an area of ​​one hundred hectares.

Park "Blue Mountains"

National Park "Blue Mountains", famous for its picturesque nature - lakes, waterfalls, steep cliffs and tropical forests.

Pink salt lakes

The bodies of water are considered some of Australia's most amazing and unusual natural wonders.

The unusual color of the lakes is associated with the algae growing in them.

Largest cities in Australia

The largest cities in Australia are Melbourne and Brisbane, each of which undoubtedly deserves attention.

Sydney

Sydney, in which, more than 4 million people live, harmoniously combines ultra-modern skyscrapers and ancient buildings, quiet parks and lively beaches.

Sydney Tower, Sydney Aquarium, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Harbor and many other attractions in the city are national pride of Australians and certainly deserve attention.

Melbourne

Guests are attracted by numerous boutiques and shops, cafes and souvenir shops.

By tram you can get to the suburb of St. Kilda, and a walk along the Yarra River will be interesting.

The coastline of Port Phillip Bay is famous for its excellent beaches, and in the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Mountains famous wineries are located.

Federation Square, the Melbourne Museum located in Carlton Gardens, and Australia's famous Eureka Skyscraper are also popular attractions in the city.

Brisbane

The attention of tourists deserves and Brisbane city, in the vicinity of which there are numerous nature reserves and zoos.

Brisbane, with a population of one million, is considered the third largest city on the continent.

The former provincial town is considered today one of the most attractive and promising for life in the country.

Its population is growing at a tremendous rate. In terms of the number of high-rise buildings and skyscrapers, Brisbane can even compete with New York.

Australia surprises guests not only with natural beauty and scenic spots, but also many interesting customs and traditions:

• all adult Australians are required to appear for elections, otherwise local residents face fines;
• local residents almost never leave a tip;
• Canberra was declared the capital of Australia, as two metropolitan areas - Sydney and Melbourne - claimed it. As a result, the Australians made a compromise, and the capital was located between rival cities;

• kangaroo meat is sold in Australian supermarkets and restaurants, being considered a healthy alternative to beef or lamb, since the fat content of kangaroo meat is no more than 1-2%;
• Despite the fact that most travelers associate kangaroo country with the sun, seaside resorts and beaches, there is more snow in the Australian Alps than in the whole winter;
• the Great Barrier Reef has its own mailbox, in which tourists can put a postcard with views of the reef addressed to friends;
• Australians are among the most gambling nation.

According to statistics, about 85% of local residents at least occasionally gamble for money.

• the continent is home to the most venomous snake on the planet- coastal taipan;
• there are many emigrants in the country. Every fourth inhabitant of the continent, according to statistics, was born outside its territorial boundaries;
• Australia's first police unit consisted of only 12 people, all of whom were selected from among prisoners with good behavior;
• statistics show that Australia's population is considered the most law-abiding in the world;
• australian football team owns the greatest victory ever: In 2001, she beat American Samoa with a unique score of 31: 0.

Summing up the above, it becomes quite obvious that Australia is one of the most interesting places on the planet, which is confidently ahead of most countries in the world in terms of the number of its attractions.

This continent never ceases to attract numerous travelers with its natural and sightseeing diversity and distinctive traditions.