The Twelve Apostles: Australia’s Magnificent Natural Wonders
The Twelve Apostles are an iconic natural wonder of Australia, located off the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. These majestic limestone stacks are a breathtaking sight to behold, and a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Although the original number of stacks has been reduced to eight due to erosion, the remaining formations are still an awe-inspiring sight. Here, we take a look at the history, facts and things to do at this remarkable natural wonder.
History of The Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles were formed over 10,000 years ago when the Southern Ocean began to erode the limestone cliffs of the mainland. This process of erosion has continued over time, and is still ongoing today. The limestone stacks have been given their name due to their resemblance to the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.
The area was first discovered by Europeans in the 1800s, when the area was explored by John Gardner and his party. The first recorded sighting of the Twelve Apostles was made by the surveyor George Smythe in 1845.
Amazing Facts About The Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles are a remarkable natural wonder, and there are many interesting facts about them. For example, the stacks are constantly changing due to erosion from the sea, and the number of stacks has decreased from twelve to eight over time. The tallest stack is 45 metres in height, and the widest is 27 metres across.
The area is also home to many species of wildlife, including seabirds, seals and whales. The stacks are also home to a variety of plant species, including the rare and endangered species of the Prickly Moses wattle.
Things To Do At The Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles are a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. Visitors can take a guided tour of the stacks, or take a scenic helicopter ride over the area. There are also plenty of walking trails in the area, and visitors can take a boat ride to explore the coastline.
The nearby town of Port Campbell also offers a range of activities, including fishing, surfing and swimming. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, as well as a range of accommodation options.
Conclusion
The Twelve Apostles are a magnificent natural wonder of Australia, and a must-see for anyone visiting the area. With its fascinating history, amazing facts and range of things to do, it’s easy to see why the Twelve Apostles are a popular tourist destination. So, why not plan a visit to this remarkable natural wonder today?