Twelve Apostles: Victoria's Coastal Giants

The Twelve Apostles are arguably the most iconic sight along Australia's Great Ocean Road. These impressive limestone stacks, sculpted by the relentless forces of the Southern Ocean, stand as testaments to the power of nature. Located within Port Campbell National Park, about 275 kilometers west of Melbourne, they draw millions of visitors each year. Over 10 to 20 million years, the harsh weather conditions gradually eroded the soft limestone cliffs, forming caves and arches. Eventually, the arches collapsed, leaving behind the isolated rock stacks that rise dramatically from the sea. Originally, the formation was known as the Sow and Piglets, with Muttonbird Island being the 'sow'. To attract more tourists, the name was changed to the Twelve Apostles, despite there never actually being twelve stacks. Today, only seven of the original nine stacks remain, with six visible from the main viewing platform. The Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, the second-largest in Victoria, spans over 17 kilometers of coastline and 7,500 hectares. This area is rich in both history and Aboriginal Dreamtime stories. In March 2023, the Federal Court of Australia formally recognized the Eastern Maar peoples as the traditional owners of more than 8,500 square kilometers of land in southwestern Victoria, including the Twelve Apostles, giving them the rights to access, use, manage, and protect the land according to their traditional laws and customs. Visitors can explore the Twelve Apostles via well-maintained boardwalks and viewing platforms. The dramatic play of light at sunrise and sunset makes these times particularly popular for photographers. Nearby attractions include Loch Ard Gorge, the London Arch, and the Gibson Steps, offering diverse coastal scenery and historical insights. Currently, a new visitor experience center is under construction and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The new center will include an exhibition space, retail and hospitality offerings, office spaces, and a rooftop lookout with views of the Shipwreck Coast.