TWELVE APOSTLES CRUMBLE, & GIBSON STEPS
The Twelve Apostles over time dwindle in number. Due to wind, rain and waves. Recent collapses have occurred.
The Twelve Apostles
These are a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of Port Campbell National Park, by the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia. The Twelve Apostles walking track and the extended viewing platform are one of the most visited places in Australia.
About five sea stacks are in close proximity to one another and may be seen from the official Twelve Apostles viewpoint. One sea stack collapsed in July 2005.
TRAVEL DOWN UNDER
Melbourne to The Twelve Apostles via the Princes Highway is approximately 225ks and just short of a three hour drive. The best scenic route is via the Great Ocean Road coastal town of Lorne. Less than 300ks and a four hour drive. Seven of the original limestone stacks remain. The official viewpoint has a large parking area for cars and buses. Can get very busy in peak periods. There is a Tourist Information building and café. A wide long and flat walking track leads to the viewing area. Scenic helicopter flights may be available from the Twelve Apostles. Nearby limited motel/cabin type accommodation is available at the Twelve Apostles.
From the Twelve Apostles it's a short driving distance to Loch Ard Gorge towards Port Campbell. The small seaside town of Port Campbell is about a ten minute drive also with accommodation and some retail.
Gibson Steps
A few minutes drive away, almost within viewing distance of the Twelve Apostles, nestled along the picturesque Great Ocean Road on the way to Apollo Bay, you will discover the breathtaking Gibson Steps. These steps, meticulously carved into the rugged cliffside, provide visitors with a unique opportunity to descend to the pristine beach below, offering a close encounter with the raw beauty of the coastline. As you navigate your way down the Gibson Steps, numbering near the hundred, the sheer magnitude of the towering cliffs above and the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean stretching out before you create a truly awe-inspiring experience.
It is important to note that while the Gibson Steps offer a remarkable vantage point to witness the power of nature, swimming in the waters here is not recommended. The area is known for its strong rips and rough waters, making it unsafe for swimming. However, the dramatic scenery, the sound of waves crashing on the beach, and the feeling of standing at the intersection of land and sea make the Gibson Steps a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Take a moment to breathe in the salty air, feel the cool ocean breeze on your skin, and marvel at the ancient geological formations that have been shaped by the elements over millions of years. A few of the Twelve Apostles may be viewed from the beach.
Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor to this stunning region, the Gibson Steps offer a glimpse into the untamed beauty of Australia's southern coast. So, take your time to explore, immerse yourself in the natural wonders that surround you, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this captivating coastal paradise.
Tourists often want to drive Philip Island to Twelve Apostles or vice versa. Underestimating the distance of more than 400 km and six hours with no stops via Melbourne. A more realistic time is at least seven to eight hours.
Alternate route of a Port Philip Bay car ferry crossing is perhaps more enjoyable and feasible. Via the Queenscliff\Sorrento car ferry.
Traveldriven
DRIVE TWELVE APOSTLES TO PHILLIP ISLAND
ENTER CLICK/TAP
REMAINING STACKS OF THE
TWELVE APOSTLES
ATTEMPTING THE GIBSON STEPS WITH
MOBILITY ISSUES & GRADUAL IMPROVEMENT
