What are the buildings in Australia. The most unusual places in Australia
Mysterious pink lake Hiller on Middle Island Wondering what to visit in Australia , be sure to include a landmark such as Lake Hillier , to your travel plan. The picturesque lake, whose waters have an unusual pink color, is located on Middle Island, covered with dense eucalyptus forests. If you look at this island from a bird's eye view, then against the background of the rich greenery of eucalyptus forests there will be a small bright spot, this is the pink Lake Hiller. The spectacular framing of sand and salt, which are located along its shores, gives even more expressiveness to the lake.
Lake Hillier has acquired the status of an Australian landmark precisely because of its eccentricity. Travelers from all over the world come to the shores of the unique lake to see for themselves that the water in it is really pink. What is the secret of such a shade of water? Despite numerous studies, there is still no exact answer to this question.
- According to one version, the pink color is formed due to the pigment secreted by certain microorganisms living in the reservoir.
- Another statement suggests that the pink hue is formed due to a combination of salts contained in the waters of the lake and specific microorganisms.
- Studies conducted in the 50s of the 20th century refuted all previously put forward assumptions.
Thus, the mystery of Lake Hillier remains unsolved to this day.
3. Blue Mountains (New South Wales)
The Blue Mountains are one of the most picturesque places in the world. Lovers of contemplating natural landscapes untouched by civilization will definitely find something to see in Australia , because on its territory there is a unique miracle of nature - national park"Blue Mountains". This area got its name for a reason. A huge number of eucalyptus forests growing on a mountain range constantly releases vapors of essential oil into the air. The rays of the sun, refracted in billions of tiny droplets of oil, form a bluish haze, creating an atmosphere of mysterious fabulousness.
In the conventional sense, the Blue Mountains are not mountains. In fact, this is a set of mountain plateaus and cliffs, above which Mount Victoria rises majestically at a height of about 1300 m above sea level.
Sandy plateaus, carved by gorges and canyons, are interspersed with many crystal clear mountain rivers and streams, creating an amazingly beautiful landscape. No wonder the national park has become one of Australia's most popular attractions.
4. Mount Uluru (Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park)
Unique rock formation Mount Uluru If you are planning a trip, you will have no doubt what to visit in Australia, because these lands are fraught with real wonders. The eighth wonder of the world, the Sacred Site, Red Mountain - all these honors are awarded to Mount Uluru, also called Ayers Rock. This is one of the most recognizable natural attractions of Australia, one of the main symbols of the continent. During the day, its red-orange rock is able to change color: at dawn, the mountain has the lightest shade, with the sun rising to the zenith it turns purple-red, then pink and, finally, a golden hue, and darkens in the evening.
How was Uluru formed? Millions of years ago mountain range was more like an island. Gradually, along the edges, the rocks collapsed and settled, forming a rock. Now in the desert where Uluru is located, winds are rushing, heavy rains are falling, creating deep cracks on the surface of the mountain.
The fantastic red rock, resembling a huge elephant, is not only unique in appearance, the age of the natural monument is also remarkable - the history of its existence is about 6 million years. This is confirmed by rock paintings that testify to the life of ancient people.
5. Yarra Valley (Melbourne)
Australia's wine region Yarra River Valley South Australia is famous for its wine industry. And perhaps one of the most spectacular wine regions here is the Yarra River Valley, where many varieties of grapes grow. The first vine was planted here in 1838, since then more than 40 wineries have been formed on these lands, which today collect excellent harvests here.
Thousands of wine connoisseurs visit these fertile lands to taste the luxurious bouquet of local wines. In addition, travelers can see a lot of interesting things here.
- For example, you can visit one of the many nature reserves that exist here, admire the breathtaking views of wildlife, see representatives of the local fauna, such as kangaroos, wombats, emus and some species of birds of prey.
- Everyone will find a memorabilia in the markets of local small towns located in the vastness of the valley.
- You can even take part in collective multi-day itineraries to feel the local color and learn as much as possible about the mysterious valley.
And to see the valley from a new angle, it is worth taking to the sky in a balloon, taking in the expanses of a bird's eye view and landing in one of the many vineyards to have breakfast with fresh products washed down with sparkling wine.
Feel the atmosphere of Australia in this beautiful video!
6. Opera House (Sydney)
Symbol of Sydney Opera House The attractiveness of the Green Continent lies not only in the extraordinary nature of the mainland. An important role is also played by cities that have become centers of business and cultural life, where the oldest sights of Australia are adjacent to modern skyscrapers, parks immersed in greenery - with busy avenues, historical museums - with huge supermarkets.
So, for example, the landscape of Sydney is uniquely recognizable among thousands of other cities thanks to the world-famous landmark - the building of the Opera House, one of the most famous in world architecture. This unique building was designed by a Danish architect named Jorn Utzon. Having designed the roofs of the theatre, original in shape, the Dane presented Sydney with a symbol of the city, by which now almost every inhabitant of the planet recognizes this city.
Many years after the erection of the famous building, the architect admitted that he was inspired to create the unique roof of the theater ... an orange peel, taken from a fruit in triangular segments. The difference is only in scale. The sloping vaults of the roofs are covered with countless tiles that, reflecting the sun's rays, create an unusual color scheme. The opera house has always attracted the attention of tourists with the originality of its forms, in connection with which this architectural creation has become an almost integral element of any city.
7. Kangaroo Island (Bay St. Vincent)
Kangaroo Island park and beach Perhaps everyone knows that for a long time the true symbol of Australia is the kangaroo. But not everyone knows that there is a whole island dedicated to these amazing animals, it is called Kangaroo Island. On its territory there is a huge park inhabited by rare species of ancient animals and relic plants. Aborigines lived on the island several millennia ago, after which they left these lands, and all this time the lands remained completely isolated from the outside world, giving local animals the opportunity to live in complete peace and security. And only in 1802, the European Flinders set foot on Kangaroo Island, who gave this name to these lands.
In addition to animals, visitors to the park are attracted by interesting geological formations - the so-called Remarkable Rocks, huge boulders of the most unusual and bizarre shapes, located at a low altitude above sea level.
Not far from the Remarkable Rocks is another attraction of Australia - the Arch of the Admiral. This creation of nature is a cave inside a huge boulder, from the depths of which it is so interesting to contemplate the beauty of the sea tides.
8. Lake Gippsland (Victoria)
Lake Gippsland Australia is rich in amazing places that attract the attention of tourists from all over the world. Among them is Lake Gippsland, which is sometimes also called the "Fire from the Underworld." During daylight hours, this lake is no different from any other body of water, but with the onset of darkness, real miracles begin to happen here. A fascinating bluish glow emanates from the water depths of the lake. This phenomenon has a very real scientific explanation, and has acquired the term "bioluminescence". The fact is that the waters of the lake are inhabited by plants and organisms endowed with bioluminescent abilities. It is this property that allows all living things in the reservoir to emit a kind of light that we see in the dark. In general, such light is constantly emitted, but only with the onset of darkness, when the sun is completely hidden behind the horizon, we can observe a real extravaganza of bluish lights along the shores of the lake.
In addition to the amazing views that open up at night, during the day you can also enjoy the extraordinary beauty of landscapes - the lake is surrounded by cliffs and fern forests around the entire perimeter.
9. King's Canyon (Vatarrka National Park)
View of King's Canyon Located in the Red Center of Australia, King's Canyon once had the status of a sacred land for the local Aborigines. Today, it has gained the status of an Australian landmark due to its unique appearance and peculiar natural beauty. Sheer walls of the canyon, formed of sandstone, reaching 200 meters in height, were formed over millions of years, acquiring unusual shapes under the influence of wind erosion. Dense thickets of ferns and cycads grow inside the canyon, palm forests, hundreds of species of animals find shelter - all this thanks to the walls of the canyon, which for the local flora and fauna play the role of protection from the desert drought that prevails outside the canyon.
To the edges of the canyon, from where travelers have an amazing view, there are several rocky ascents.
- The most popular is the 6 km route, which will take about 3-4 hours. This is the optimal route in terms of complexity, which allows you to enjoy the incredible panoramic views of the canyon, to see unusual rock formations. Lost City, and descending into the canyon itself - admire the beauties of the Garden of Eden, the so-called reservoir in the rock, surrounded by lush vegetation.
- The easiest and shortest route runs right along the bottom of the Royal Canyon, where you can see numerous boulders and giant eucalyptus trees, and this route ends on a viewing platform on the height of the gorge, from where you can see the sheer cliffs.
- Finally, the most difficult route with a length of 22 kilometers, connecting the Royal Canyon and the city of Kathleen Springs, will be able to conquer the most inveterate travelers.
10. Tasmania Island (Tasmania, 240 km south of the mainland)
The coast of Tasmania To the south of the mainland is another unique attraction of Australia - the island of Tasmania, famous throughout the world for its unique beauty of tropical forests.
The nature of the origin of the island is amazing - the Gondwana continent, which existed on earth several hundred million years ago, united the lands of the future Australia, Africa, South America and Antarctica. As a result of the movement of the earth's plates, a single continent gradually broke up into many parts, forming several separate continents that have retained this appearance to this day.
Tropical beauty lovers will definitely find something to see in Australia, because the island of Tasmania is a real gift of nature, full of lush vegetation. Just imagine: majestic giant trees, mainly eucalyptus and ancient beech, have grown so densely that it is impossible to get between them. Everything around is overgrown with dense greenery, the undergrowth is complemented by ferns and thick mosses with a dense carpet, whips of lianas hang between the trees. A variety of fauna live in these parts - the famous Tasmanian devil, red wallaby, marsupial wolf and Tasmanian bettong.
The whole valley abounds with lakes, streams and mountain rivers - such a striking and exciting sight will undoubtedly be appreciated by a real traveler.
Sightseeing in Australia: what else to visit while in Australia
It’s worth thinking about what places to visit during your vacation long before you board a plane. You should not think that they will tell you about all the local attractions, because there are hundreds of them. Fortunately, you have our list at your disposal, with which you will not be lost even at the ends of the earth!
11. Fraser Island (East Coast of Australia)
Large sandy Fraser Island The world of the Green Continent is rich and diverse, and Fraser Island, another interesting attraction of Australia, is a bright spot on the map of the mainland. The world's largest sandy island consists entirely of sand, which has been carried by sea currents and blown by winds for thousands of years, forming another amazing creation of nature - sand dunes. These are real mountains of white sand, reaching a height of 240-250 meters.
An amazing feature of the sandy island is that on its lands, washed from all sides by the salty waters of the ocean, there are more than a hundred freshwater lakes. Why are there so many lakes with fresh water on an island that does not receive food from rivers or glaciers? It's all about precipitation and groundwater, which constantly replenish reservoirs, preventing them from drying out. The panoramas of these lakes are unusually beautiful - the purest waters are framed by a border of snow-white sand, and all this is surrounded by wild forests. Among the most picturesque reservoirs is Lake Mackenzie, located at an altitude of 100 meters above the sea, and the largest of them is Lake Boemingham, whose area reaches 200 hectares. In general, the climate of Fraser Island is milder than the rest of the mainland, due to the high amount of moisture in the air and soil.
12. Big Pineapple in Queensland (Woombay)
Big pineapple statue Undoubtedly, there will be something to see in Australia , and lovers of creative architecture. In the state of Queensland, in the town of Woombye, for many decades tourists have been pleased with the brightness and positiveness of a large statue of a pineapple. The incessant stream of inquisitive travelers, eager to look at this creation, does not dry up year after year. A large 16-meter fiberglass structure was erected here in 1971, when the Taylors, having built a small farm and a recreation park, decided to attract the attention of visitors. It is worth recognizing that they succeeded perfectly, because a huge and bright statue in the shape of a pineapple catches the eye from afar.
The farm, by the way, exists to this day, both domestic animals live here - donkeys, pigs, and exotic ones - for example, alpaca, whose valuable wool is used to make various woolen products.
Here, in the neighborhood, you can also visit a small zoo where kangaroos, deer, koalas and other representatives of the local fauna live.
Visitors also have the opportunity to observe how pineapples and Australian macadamia nuts are grown on local plantations.
13. Rock "Stone Wave" (Western Australia)
stone statue of a wave The amazingly beautiful landmark of Australia in the form of an unusually shaped rock formation is located in the west of the mainland. This is the “Stone Wave” rock, whose name comes from its shape - outwardly, this miracle of nature looks like a huge sea wave has stirred right in the middle of the land. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come to see this stone statue every year. The visible part of the "wave" rising above the ground is about 15 meters high, and over a hundred meters long.
For many centuries, this creation of nature played a big role in culture. local population. It was once believed that it was in the place where this “wave” was formed that the forces of spirits and nature accumulated and intertwined. Australians treat this statue with special trepidation to this day, making considerable efforts to preserve the beauty of the natural monument. For this purpose, back in the 50s of the last century, a reinforcing dam was built to protect the "Stone Wave" from natural erosion.
14. Twelve Apostles Rocks (Victoria, Port Campbell National Park)
Limestone rocks-giants “The Twelve Apostles” One of Australia's most famous and recognizable landmarks is the Twelve Apostles, a group of rocks that has become a symbol of the Great Ocean Road, stretching at a breathtaking height above the coast. It is the “12 Apostles” that are often depicted on numerous tourist booklets, and every year hundreds of thousands of interested tourists visit these places to observe the peculiar beauty of the rocks and their ability to change their color throughout the day. The most picturesque panorama opens up in the morning and evening, when the subdued sunlight gives the landscape a mystery and saturation of colors.
The age of these rocky formations is tens of millions of years old: year after year, waves and wind destroyed the soft limestone, forming cavities in the cliffs, and the resulting arches collapsed over time, forming rocks up to 45 meters high.
Some interesting facts are connected with the rocks of "12 apostles".
- In fact, having visited these places, you will find that there are not 12 rocks here, but only 8. Initially, there were 9 of them, but one of them collapsed in 2005.
- Previously, the complex of rock formations was called "Pig and Pigs", but in order to make the name more harmonious, this creation of nature was renamed "12 Apostles".
15. Kuranda (Queensland)
At the Kuranda Zoo And in what corner of Australia can you learn the most about the life of the indigenous inhabitants of the Green Continent? What to visit in Australia to get acquainted with their culture, the peculiarities of life, the characteristic features of their mentality? Perhaps, the best place for this - a small hilly town of Kuranda in the north of Queensland. It is so small that it can be walked around in a matter of minutes - from edge to edge of the town the distance is only 1 kilometer, but there is definitely something to see there.
- For example, in local markets you can not only buy ordinary souvenirs, but also get to know the features of the craft and folk art of the indigenous people to the fullest extent.
- Under a large mesh canopy is the bird world Birdworld, where you can safely walk among the soaring birds, including parrots, quails, pigeons, cassowaries.
- Koala Gardens is the name of a small wildlife zoo on the continent. In addition to koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, lizards and snakes live here.
- Aboriginal Research Center - is a village inhabited by the true indigenous people of the mainland. Here you can fully explore the culture and life of the natives, watch their traditional dance, watch a boomerang or spear throw, listen to the game on the ancient African didgeridoo instrument.
16. House of Queen Victoria (Sydney)
Late 19th century Queen Victoria building in downtown Sydney When exploring the places of interest in Sydney, you can start with the most emblematic monuments - such as the house of Queen Victoria, towering in the middle of the city's business district. The majestic building was born in 1898 in honor of the 60th anniversary of the reign of the queen, on the site of the former city market, which existed here since the beginning of the 19th century. Today, this place is an impressive shopping center that houses various fashion boutiques, cafeterias, jewelry stores and more. Recognizable elements of the building are exquisite stained-glass windows, a mosaic floor, a characteristic staircase, one of the ten most beautiful staircases in the world, as well as an interior made in a traditional Gothic style. Right in front of the entrance to the house rises a majestic monument dedicated to the queen, and a separate reason for admiration is the Great Australian Clock, which shows the history of the country in pictures.
17. Harbor Bridge (Sydney)
Steel arch bridge Harbor Bridge across Port Jackson Bay in Sydney Perhaps, the Sydney Harbor Bridge, the largest arch bridge in the world, built of steel, deserves to be included in the top 5 attractions in Australia. Often the locals call it a "hanger", due to the similarity of the design with this item. The grand opening of the bridge took place in 1932, although construction was planned in the middle of the 19th century. All previous 25 bridge projects were rejected, and only the project of the London architect Ralph Freeman won, and in 1926 construction started. The Harbor Bridge spans Port Jackson Bay, connecting the North Shore and downtown. The bridge can be used by both pedestrians and cyclists, as well as cars - special roads are provided for everyone. The bridge has a length of 1150 meters, a height of 134 meters, and those who wish can climb to its highest point to explore the beautiful city panoramas.
18. Sydney Tower (Sydney)
Sydney Tower in the area of skyscrapers and the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary in Sydney Among other things, Australia is known for high-rise buildings, one of which is the Sydney Tower - the highest building in Sydney, the second tallest in the southern hemisphere of the planet. The tower project was developed in 1970, after 5 years active construction work began, and after 6 years the building was opened to the public. The structure consists of three main sections with viewing platforms, and you can climb into any of them on one of the three high-speed elevators. The first section is a closed observation platform at a height of 250 meters with a viewing angle of 360 °, the second section is a platform 18 meters higher than the first, the main trump card of which is a transparent glass floor. A visit to the second site turns into an exciting attraction, with an overview of the huge city, skyscrapers, the bay and the picturesque Blue Mountains from a dizzying height. The third section is a restaurant with a capacity of up to 220 people.
19. St. Paul's Cathedral (Melbourne)
Facade of St. Paul's Cathedral in the center of Melbourne Adam.J.W.C. 
Interior of St Paul's Cathedral in Melbourne Choosing the historical and cultural sights of Australia , you can not do without one of the religious symbols of the country - St. Paul's Cathedral, located in the historic district of Melbourne. It is the largest Neo-Gothic Anglican church and was the tallest structure in Melbourne at the time of construction. One of the main values of the cathedral is the largest organ from Great Britain, created by the English master T. Lewis and including more than 6.5 thousand pipes. The cathedral itself looks very majestic, and in the evening and at night with illumination it is simply fantastic, its hall with a mosaic floor impresses with its huge size. The height of the building, together with the spire, makes it possible to call it the highest Anglican cathedral in the world. Previously, there was a stone parish church here, and in 1891 it was replaced by a grandiose sandstone building, and only in the 20th century its spire and tower were completed.
20. Kakadu National Park (northern Australia)
Huge termite mound in Kakadu National Park Kakadu Park will surely appeal to those who love ecotourism, natural attractions , Interested in archeology and history. This is a picturesque place on the continent where you can see wildlife in all its beauty and diversity. It is a plateau surrounded by rocks, where there are rainforests, and savannas, and rivers, and waterfalls. Each of these objects is saturated with abundant vegetation - the flora is represented by 1600 plant species. The fauna of the park is no less rich - here you can find traditional marsupials, more than a hundred species of reptiles, about 3 hundred species of birds, which is one third of all birds inhabiting Australia. The park pays special attention to river tourism, water safaris are organized, trips are made to some waterfalls. The reserve is managed by the Aboriginal community - they conduct educational excursions here, demonstrating local customs and some original products.
21. Bondi Beach (Sydney)
Bondi Beach is the most popular city beach in Sydney. Sometimes it is enough to download a photo of an Australian landmark to appreciate its beauty and aesthetic appeal. The 6-kilometer Bondi Beach, located just outside the center of Sydney, is a strip of white sand, with clear turquoise water and incredible waves that are so attractive to surfers. And it is also a string of trendy cafes and bars, shops and cozy hotels, as well as numerous festivals, competitions and holidays. For example, it has long been a tradition on the beach to celebrate Christmas with grandiose fireworks. At the same time, this place is devoid of excessive pretentiousness and secular glamour, here you can just soak up the sand, admiring the magnificent scenery, views of rocks, waves and the coast with its hiking trail connecting Bondi to several other beaches.
22. Australian Zoo (Birwa)
Entrance to the Australian Zoo in Beerwah Kaus To decide what to see in Australia in 2 weeks , it is worth considering that such a period of time allows you to go beyond the standard route in Sydney. Adding variety to the trip, you can go to Queensland to visit the most interesting zoo, which bears the name of Steve Irving. This outstanding nature lover showed great interest in Australian wildlife since childhood - for example, he demonstrated miracles of courage and dexterity, catching crocodiles for the reptile park created by his parents. The park is located on an area of 40 hectares and is inhabited by a huge variety of animals - there are about 30 species of reptiles, the same number of mammals, about 40 species of birds. You can not only see some of the inhabitants of the park, but also feed them from your hand, and even stroke them. The spectacular crocodile show impresses visitors deeply.
23. Penguin Parade (Phillip Island)
The famous penguin parade at sunset on Phillip Island Upon arrival in Australia, it is worth purchasing a travel booklet - Australia is presented there in the form of main attractions, descriptions and ways to get to them. But if this is enough for a novice tourist, then a sophisticated traveler will not stop at the standard list of objects - he will look for something new and exotic. For example, he will go to Phillip Island, famous for its parade of penguins - a huge colony of these birds is registered here. Every day at sunset, the penguins, returning from sea hunting, walk together and waddled to their minks, and this action takes on a large-scale and very spectacular look. And in order to make it convenient to watch this fascinating parade without disturbing the birds, special platforms and stands are equipped for visitors.
24. Great Ocean Road (Victoria)
The Great Ocean Road is 243 kilometers long along the ocean coast in Victoria If Western Australia, with its dry and sunny climate, is famous for its wine-growing regions, bizarre rock formations, sand dunes and ancient eucalyptus trees, then the most important attraction of southern Australia can rightfully be called the Great Ocean Road. It stretched across the entire state of Victoria for hundreds of kilometers along the coast of the Indian Ocean, and connected Melbourne and Adelaide. But the main feature of this path is the excellent views of the coast, its nature, flora and fauna, which open up from a wide variety of angles along the winding road. Basically, the road leads along the ocean, but sometimes it dives deep into the mainland, passing through vineyards and fantastic rain forests, flickers along the steep foothills of the rocks, allows you to admire grottoes, caves, limestone columns. This amazing path was built in 1932 in order to develop tourism.
25. Cape Byron (New South Wales)
Snow-white lighthouse at Cape Byron on the east coast of Australia in the state of "New South Wales" In order to comprehend all the beauty and diversity of Australian nature, you can go around the Australian islands to the east of the mainland and explore the sights of Oceania , see coral reefs, fantastically shaped rocks, colored lakes and mountains with eucalyptus forests. And you can, without leaving the land, go to Cape Byron - the easternmost tip of the mainland. This is a unique place that, despite the developed infrastructure, retains its wild and original appearance, impresses with its grandeur, picturesque and diverse nature. The cape is named after the poet John Byron, a famous adventurer who loved to embark on various adventures. One of the prominent sights of the cape is the snow-white lighthouse of 1901, where an observation deck is equipped. And the town of Byron Bay, nestled in this region, is a popular tourist resort with excellent opportunities for water sports.
In whatever corner of the Green Continent you find yourself, you will undoubtedly be welcomed by the local population, and the nature of Australia will open the gates to you. wonderful world tropical forests, crystal clear lakes, untouched lands, far from our usual everyday life and the bustle of modern civilizations.
Tourism does not provide for any restrictions and prohibitions in terms of visiting certain states. It all depends on the financial condition and personal preferences. They are known to many for their large cities. However, Australia remains a mystery to most tourists. And some of them don't even know what to see there. And there are many interesting things in this country.
Of the architectural sights, the building erected in 1898 in honor of Queen Victoria is interesting. This building is listed as a cultural heritage site. Now there is a large shopping center inside the building. Tourists can visit fashion boutiques or jewelry stores.
Once inside, you can not only buy the necessary goods and souvenirs, but also see large hanging clocks, as well as look at a small exhibition of royal clothes.
- Where is: in the business district of Sydney.
- Work time: from Monday to Wednesday, as well as on Friday - from 9:00 to 18:00, Thursday - from 9:00 to 21:00, Saturday - from 10:00 to 16:00, Sunday - from 11:00 to 16: 00.
- Entrance: free.
It is in Australia that tourists can go to the zoo, which is named after Steve Irwin. This person from early years was engaged in catching crocodiles for the parent reptile park. With age, he did a lot of useful development documentaries about wildlife, often finding themselves in extreme situations.
Now the 40-hectare zoo houses many different species of animals. Its territory is divided into separate pavilions. The central stadium deserves special attention, where a show with crocodiles, birds and snakes takes place.
A well-known architectural landmark is the huge Anglican Cathedral in Melbourne. The building is a majestic structure with a unique finish and elegant shape. It houses one of the largest organs made in the 19th century.
St. Paul's Cathedral was erected on the site where the first services were originally held immediately after the founding of the city. Before the advent of the parish church, there was a market here.
While in Sydney, it is worth visiting the tallest building in the city. It is also the second tallest tower in all of Australia. The height of the object, built in 1981, is 309 meters. Anyone can get inside. The building is open to the public.
At the top there is a viewing platform with a good restaurant. It will be possible to rise there on one of three high-speed elevators. With their help, tourists find themselves at the top in just 40 seconds.
Along the Pacific coast stretches the Great Ocean Road, the construction of which began back in 1919, when Australian soldiers came from the war. During the work practically no special equipment was used. Everything was done with hand tools.
The large construction was completed in 1932, after which it became one of the major military memorials. Over time, a route for pedestrians with a length of 104 km was opened along the highway.
Visitors to Australia can visit one of the largest aquariums in the world. It is home to many different animals. Its territory is divided into separate sections, and this is done according to the geographical principle. The most interesting is the collection of sharks - the largest on the planet.
The entrance to the building is easy to find. When visiting, you will have to go through the mouth of a huge shark. It should be borne in mind that the aquarium has quite impressive dimensions, so it will take a lot of time to fully examine it.
In the vicinity of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta park there is a huge mountain, which is a solid stone, which is the largest on the planet. Its height reaches 348 m. If desired, tourists can climb up with a guide or just take a walk next to the massive cliff.
In ancient times, a stone lay in the middle of a large lake and acted as a kind of island. Now it is surrounded by desert, and rock art flaunts on its surface.
The Harbor Bridge is one of the largest bridges in the world. Not only cars, but also pedestrians, cyclists, and rail transport move along it. It was opened in 1932 to provide communication between the North Bank and the central part of the city.
The length of the arch span is 503 meters, and its total length is 1149 meters. The structure weighs about 54 thousand tons. The steel parts of the structure are connected with rivets. Mighty towers located on opposite banks act as holding elements.
An unusual rock formation can surprise any tourist, as it has the shape of a huge wave. The length of this object, created by nature itself, is 110 meters. The alternation of light and dark rocks enhances the similarity with the sea wave.
There is an assumption that the rock took this shape due to deformation under the influence of winds and precipitation. To avoid further destruction of this composition, a retaining wall was attached to it.
Archaeological, natural, as well as ethnological value is the Kakadu National Park. Its name is not associated with a breed of famous parrots. This is what the local tribe calls itself. This natural miracle is isolated from the outside world on all sides, so rare species of animals have been preserved here.
The park began to be popular not only because of the abundance of unique flora and fauna. On its territory there are interesting caves, the walls of which are decorated with rock paintings.
Not far from the Sydney Harbor Bridge is an important cultural attraction - the Opera House. It has an unusual shape - it resembles a huge shell. The building was erected in the style of structural expressionism. For his project, the architect received an award in the field of architecture, and the object itself was included in the UNESCO list.
The huge structure is washed by water from three sides. It stands on a pile foundation, the elements of which are driven as deep as possible. Beautiful evening illumination looks spectacular, the building turns into a shining stone.
No less interesting is the Blue Mountains National Park. Its scenic area is represented by eucalyptus forests, numerous cliffs and waterfalls. In the villages you can find a cozy guest house to spend the night or just take a break from a long road.
The presence of eucalyptus forests makes the air especially useful. It is saturated with essential oils, so it is very pleasant to inhale it. More than 90 species of eucalyptus grow on the territory of forests.
The sights of Australia include a whole island stretching along the east coast. Its length is approximately 120 km, while the width varies between 7-23 km. Of the sandy islands, the Fraser Islands are the largest in the world.
Surprisingly, there are a large number of fresh lakes here. There are more than a hundred of them. They are fed by streams that originate in peat bogs. However, it should be noted that all of them are significantly contaminated.
Many will want to be in the easternmost point of Australia - at Cape Byron. This is one of the most picturesque places on the entire continent. With a fairly high popularity among tourists and a relatively developed infrastructure, this place has preserved its original appearance.
The Eastern Cape attracts travelers with its rich and very diverse nature. Here you can surf, hang glider, swim with dolphins or just wander around.
A natural attraction in the form of horizontal waterfalls may be of interest to many travelers. In Australia there is a place where two ridges converge at a short distance from each other, thus forming narrow clefts through which the bulk of the water rushes during high tides.
If you wish, you can order a sightseeing tour and enjoy the views directly from the seaplane, and then plunge into the purest waters of the bay. Fans of extreme entertainment can ride a surfboard here.
Summing up
You may notice that in the list of listed attractions in Australia, natural objects are more often mentioned. There are plenty of them throughout the country. Thus, if you are more attracted by picturesque views and unusual representatives of flora and fauna, then you should definitely visit this state.
An alternative solution may be another option. It will succeed in interesting natural areas, waterfalls, parks and beaches, as well as other places created by nature.
Huge modern cities, picturesque beaches, the steepest railway slopes, the real UFO capital - 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 visitor to Australia, 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 true ecosystem with the richest fauna and flora, consisting of three thousand coral reefs and covering 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 a snow-white lighthouse built in 1901.
Here is an observation deck, from where an incredible, breathtaking view of the surroundings opens.
From the lighthouse you can observe the life of dolphins, whales and sharks, which often visit these places.
Cockington Green Gardens
The 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 Victorian Apostles and the Great Ocean Road leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
The Victorian Apostles are 12 huge limestone rocks. jutting straight out of the sea.
The amazing coastline also has beautiful grottoes, caves and rocks.
Red Rock Ayers Rock
It rises in the middle of the desert in the central part of Australia.
Fraser Island
This island is famous for whites sandy beaches, tropical forests, pristine lakes and amazing dunes.
The UNESCO World Heritage Island 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 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.
Blue Mountains Park
The Blue Mountains National Park is famous for its picturesque nature - lakes, waterfalls, steep cliffs and tropical forests.
pink salt lakes
The bodies of water are considered one of Australia's most amazing and unusual natural wonders.
The unusual color of the lakes is associated with algae growing in them.
Australia's largest cities
Australia's largest metropolitan areas are Melbourne and Brisbane, each of which undoubtedly deserves attention.
Sydney
Sydney, where 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 of the city are the national pride of Australians and certainly deserve attention.
Melbourne
Guests are attracted by numerous boutiques and shops, cafes and souvenir shops.
You can get to the suburbs of St. Kilda by tram, and a walk along the Yarra River will also be interesting.
The coastline of Port Phillip Bay is famous for its excellent beaches, and in the Yarra Valley and in 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 city of Brisbane, in the vicinity of which there are numerous reserves and zoos.
Brisbane, with its one million inhabitants, 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 skyscrapers and skyscrapers, Brisbane can even compete with New York.
Australia surprises guests not only with natural beauties and picturesque places, but also many interesting customs and traditions:
- all adult Australians are required to appear at the polls, otherwise local residents face a fine;
- locals almost never leave tips;
- Canberra was declared the capital of Australia, as two cities claimed it - Sydney and Melbourne. As a result, the Australians compromised, and the capital was located between competing cities;
- kangaroo meat is sold in Australian supermarkets and offered in restaurants, considered a healthy alternative to beef or lamb, since the fat content in kangaroo meat is no more than 1-2%;
- despite the fact that most travelers associate the country of kangaroos 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 world's most venomous snake lives on the continent– coastal taipan;
- There are many immigrants living in the country. Every fourth inhabitant of the continent, according to statistics, was born outside its territorial boundaries;
- the first unit of the Australian police consisted of only 12 people, and all policemen were chosen from prisoners who distinguished themselves by good behavior;
- as statistics show, the population of Australia is considered the most law-abiding in the world;
- Australian football team owns the most grandiose victory: 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, in terms of the number of its attractions, confidently overtakes most countries of the world.
This continent will never cease to attract numerous travelers with its natural and sightseeing diversity and original traditions.
Australia is not only an interesting country, but also a whole continent. It is quite simple to visit there, but first you should study the peculiarities of culture, the best sights and opportunities for pastime - this will allow you to relax in comfort in any season.
Briefly about Australia
Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere on the mainland of the same name. About 24,067,700 people live here, and the territory of the state is 7,692,024 km 2. Desert areas, large modern megacities, tourist areas, local farms, rivers and much more are spread on this area.
Australia has a hot and dry climate
Thanks to its distinctive culture, an abundance of attractions and ample opportunities for a varied holiday, tourists from all over the world seek Australia.
Full official name of the country
In advertising, tourism, information sources, as well as in colloquial speech, the country and the continent on which it is located are called Australia. Complete official name states - the Commonwealth of Australia. This combination is used in political, scientific documents and other similar situations.
Capital and geography of the country
Australia ranks sixth in the world in terms of area and includes the mainland and several islands: Tasmania, Cartier and Ashmore, Christmas Island, McDonald, Heard, Cocos Islands and others. The eastern and northern coasts of the country are washed by the small seas of the Indian and Pacific Oceans: Coral, Tasmanovo, Arafura. Along the northeast coast of the continent stretches the most famous coral reef in the world - the Great Barrier Reef.
Australia is the smallest continent, most of which is occupied by deserts. Canberra, with a population of 391,645, is the country's capital and has a satellite town of Quinbian. The Australian Capital Territory also includes Namadji National Park and a small agricultural area.
What language is spoken in Australia
Several languages are spoken throughout the country. Australian English language is official. It differs from international English, as it appeared as a result of the transformation of British English by the inhabitants of the colonies of Australia. There are also people here who speak Italian, Greek, Cantonese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Mandarin and Spanish.
Currency in the state
The country has its own currency - the Australian dollar (AUD). This monetary unit is divided into 100 cents and is valid on the continent and islands.
Dollars are valid throughout the country Before traveling, you can exchange another currency for Australian dollars or purchase these currencies directly in the country. Payment by credit card is also available.
Religion in Australia
There is no official religion in the state - it is multi-confessional. One of the largest religions is Catholicism, which is followed by about 25.3% of the population. The canons of Anglicanism are followed by 17.1%, Buddhism is practiced by 2.5% of the population, Islam by 2.2%, Hinduism by 1.3%. Non-religious are 22.3% of the inhabitants.
Time zone and time
There are several time zones in the country:
Several villages in Western Australia use UTC+8:45 Some areas of the country switch to daylight saving time and time zones change to UTC+10:30 and UTC+11. In winter, the difference between Sydney and Moscow is +8 hours.
The best places for tourism
The hot and dry climate of the country does not prevent it from becoming popular for tourism. There are several cities and regions that are especially frequented by travelers. This is due to the fact that the infrastructure is highly developed here, there are famous sights and ample opportunities for recreation.
In Australia, the following places are worth visiting:
The oldest in Australia, but at the same time ultra-modern Sydney is a city of contrasts
On the streets of Canberra there are many modern buildings immersed in greenery.
Ancient buildings on the streets of Melbourne are hiding in the shadow of skyscrapers
Perth - a city of millionaires and a developed economic center
Aboriginal village and sacred sites near Alice Springs
In modern Darwin there are memorials, museums and a monument from the First and Second World Wars.Famous landmarks of Australia
Cultural objects, architectural masterpieces, interesting entertainment centers, natural wonders - all this is in Australia. When planning a trip, it is better to plan a route in advance, choosing the most preferred places to visit.
natural attractions
The following natural objects have gained the greatest popularity:
The reef is huge and is a popular tourist attraction.
At sunrise and in the rays of the setting sun, Ayers Rock seems to light up with a mystical scarlet flame.
Natural formations carved by water and wind look very impressive
The national park got its name thanks to the Kakadu tribe, who have lived in the thick of virgin forests since ancient times.
The road runs along the coast through beautiful countryside.
In Talbot Bay, you can go boating or enjoy the wonderful views from the helicopter window.Cultural attractions
In addition to natural sites, Australia is famous for its architectural and cultural attractions. One of the most famous is the Sydney Opera House. The structure is made in the form of a sea shell and is located on the shores of Sydney Bay. Concerts, exhibitions and other events are regularly held here.
The building of the Sydney Opera House has long been a hallmark of Australia. The museum, located in the building of the former Port Arthur prison in Tasmania, offers historical exhibitions of those times when prisoners lived here. Well-groomed and beautiful area creates a contrast with the interior.
It was almost impossible to escape from this prison, and one of the most sophisticated tortures was a long-term stay in solitary confinement in deathly silence and darkness. St. Paul's Cathedral in Melbourne, built in the 19th century, is a large Anglican church. The ancient building, contrasting with modern skyscrapers, has a majestic view, rich history and is made in the Gothic architectural style.
While walking around Melbourne, you should look at St. Paul's Cathedral, famous for its organ At the Queensland Zoo you can see many rare animals and birds, as well as witness a show with crocodiles. All conditions for pleasant walks are created here, and local cafes offer dishes of national cuisine.
Crocodiles are the main inhabitants of the zoo in Queensland In Melbourne, there is the National Sports Museum, which contains everything related to the history of the development of various sports in Australia. It hosts exhibitions dedicated to the winter and summer Olympic Games, tennis, golf, rugby, etc.
The museum presents sports equipment and equipment for different types of games. There are museums in all large and small Australian cities, which contain collections of exhibits that characterize the culture and important stages in the development of the state.
Holidays in different seasons
When planning a trip to Australia, it is worth considering that the change of seasons here occurs differently than in the Northern Hemisphere. From June to September, the country is quite cool. Thus, the average air temperature in Sydney in August is +13 °C, and in January - +22 °C.
Temperatures in Australia vary by region - the farther from the equator, the cooler There is no scorching sun in Australia from June to August, although hot weather persists in the northern part of the continent. At this time, you can take a hiking trip through the caves, a trip along the Great Ocean Road, a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef, as well as visit the Tasmania region, where many famous attractions are located. During the summer months, there is a lot of rain in the country, which is especially true for the northern part.
September and October are optimal for a beach holiday. There are many comfortable and clean beaches in Sydney and other coastal cities. Museums, shopping centers, amusement parks and water rides can be found in all major cities.
In December, hot weather reigns here and therefore tourists rarely travel at this time. Even a beach holiday will not be pleasant in January, but it is worth visiting the Christmas sales, the Sydney Opera House and taking tours of Tasmania, where at this time it is about +20 °C.
The beginning of spring in Sydney is characterized by rain - in Melbourne there is no such amount of precipitation. Beach holidays are comfortable in April and May, excursions, hiking, car trips and sightseeing of historical sites are also possible.
Rest for a few days
If your stay in Australia lasts no more than 1-2 days, you should not make hikes and excursions in the gorges, valleys and mountains - during this time it is best to see the sights of the city. For example, in Sydney it is worth visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens, Hyde Park, the art gallery of New South Wales.
Parks in Sydney attract tourists with well-groomed and interesting fountains. A full trip around the country in 3 days is impossible, but it is worth visiting several interesting places nearby. There are many cities on the south coast, each of which has interesting museums, natural sites and entertainment centers. It is also worth sailing to nearby islands, such as Kangaroo Island, where there is Flinders Chase National Park.
For 5 or 7 days, you can make more distant trips, for example, go to the Great Barrier Reef, visit the city of Darwin, fly by plane to Canberra or Sydney. Depending on the season, it is worth learning water sports with professional instructors or taking a hike to the caves.
Traveling with children
A trip to Australia with children is best spent in the summer months, as it is hot here in winter and the rest will not be comfortable. During the trip, you can visit the following places:
With children in Australia, you can visit the beaches, which are varied and comfortable here. It is important to consider travel safety when avoiding extreme hikes.
Photo gallery: tourist maps of cities
Canberra has an airport and developed infrastructure Sydney is popular with tourists and is a modern city The city has few streets, but there are interesting sights
Australia is one of the most interesting countries for tourists. The combination of unique natural sites, national parks, Aboriginal cultural monuments, modern architectural gems - beautiful places in Australia can be listed indefinitely. Among them there are several natural and man-made objects that can be called symbols of the country, and this primarily concerns the Great Barrier Reef.
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is a unique natural site, a beautiful place, included in the UN World Heritage List. The BBR is considered an underwater mecca for divers around the world. It stretches along the entire east coast of Australia and consists of the most beautiful coral reefs (about 2900) and atolls (more than 300).
Magnificent beaches, amazing tropical nature, the most beautiful underwater world of the reef - amazingly beautiful corals of bizarre shapes, colorful fish of all kinds do not leave anyone indifferent. The BBR is a reserve for marine animals and birds of rare breeds. It is in this incomparable place in Australia that the most beautiful shells are found, reaching a weight of more than 200 kg!
Sydney - the pearl of Australia
Sydney, although not the capital of Australia, is considered the most beautiful city in the country. It harmoniously combines advanced technology and natural beauty. In the neighborhood of the skyscrapers of the City, there are many parks and green spaces, which is only worth the Royal Botanic Gardens, located on 34 hectares!
Excellent beaches and a picturesque promenade, magically glowing with neon at night, numerous museums and art galleries, beautiful places, restaurants and bars inviting you to enjoy the original Australian cuisine.
The visiting card of the city is the Sydney Opera House, a majestic building, as if sailing under full sail on the coastal waves, is recognized as one of the most beautiful architectural buildings in Australia and the world. Its roof, shaped like 4 shells, is covered with millions of tiles that, in different lighting conditions, create an indescribable and constantly changing color picture.
Its theatrical curtain made by French masters is the largest in the world. The first place belongs to the huge mechanical organ of the concert hall, it consists of 10,500 pipes.
Kakadu National Park
Another a nice place Australia - Kakadu Park, which got its name from the name of the language of the local aborigines. It occupies about 20 thousand km 2 and is home not only to rare plants and animals, but also to 500 indigenous Australians. Steep cliffs, bewitching with their impregnability, frame and protect the landscapes of this place.
On the territory of the park there are caves and sites of ancient aborigines. The rock paintings of the ancient Australian peoples are considered the best in the world and date back to 18 thousand years.
The beauty of the Australian Kakadu Park is in its nature. Everything around looks as if a human foot has never set foot on these hills, no one has wandered in virgin forests, no one has drunk water from numerous rivers and reservoirs.
Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains are one of the most beautiful places in the world. The park got its name due to a rare optical phenomenon - sunlight is refracted on drops of oil from huge eucalyptus trees that cover most of the mountains, and acquires a delicate blue hue that turns the mountain range into a beautiful mirage.
Trees characteristic of the tropical zone of Australia grow in the park: acacia, mint, tree ferns, blue eucalyptus. The fauna is represented by the majority of marsupials - gray and mountain kangaroos, opossums, swamp wallabies. There are also many beautiful tropical birds.
The most popular places in the park are observation platforms that offer a view of the valleys, the famous rocks of the Three Sisters, which were named in the legends of the natives, Echo Gorge.
Underground city Coober Pedy
Opals of unique beauty were mined and mined in Australia. The first prospectors developing the mines were so tired of the 50-degree heat of the desert that they decided to place their dwellings in the old exhausted mines. Underground, the temperature rarely reached above 20-25 0 C, and the miners' families perfectly took root underground, organizing the city of Coober Pedy, which became the world capital of opal mining.
The city is fully equipped for a comfortable life. Its tunnels housed restaurants, a museum, shops, pottery workshops and even an Orthodox church. The only cave hotel in the world, Desert Cave, is also located in this place. Beautiful and surreal desert landscapes and original underground houses have become the setting for many famous science fiction films.
Reserved Island Tasmania
Tasmania is the most beautiful place in Australia, it is a separate state on the island, which is a wildlife sanctuary for more than 50% of its territory. Due to the significant elevation above sea level, the island has created a unique climate for evergreens and other plants that can be found only in Australia and in a few places in the southern hemisphere.
Many unique animals and birds live on the island - the Tasmanian devil, the Tasmanian marsupial wolf, the orange-bellied parrot, etc.
You can talk a lot about the beautiful places in Australia, each of them is interesting and attractive in its own way. Sometimes one gets the impression that even a lifetime is not enough to enjoy all the beauties of this mysterious and distant country.