If you’re looking to get away from it all, why don’t you head to far east Victoria and get off the mainland with a stay on Gabo Island? This isolated, 154-hectare island is located 14 kilometres away from Mallacoota, and can only be reached by boat or plane. It’s a unique place to visit all year round, and now, you can once again stay on Gabo Island. The Assistant Lightkeeper’s Cottage has been restored, so you can treat yourself to a private getaway.
Gabo Island
Located 500 metres off the cost of Croajingolong National Park, this island is home to impressive landscapes, awesome wildlife and the second tallest lighthouse in Australia. During the day, check out the lighthouse, which is 47-metres high and made from the island’s distinctive pink granite. Climb up to the top, and be rewarded with panoramic views. Tours of the lighthouse can be arranged as part of your accommodation package.
Explore other historic sights, including ruins from World War II, an old cemetery, a radar station and a monument to the ship ‘Monumental City’.
If history’s not your thing, enjoy the beauty of the island and take in the scenic bays and dramatic cliffs. Check out the rockpools, laze about on the beach and go snorkelling in Santa Barbara Bay. At dawn and dusk, watch out for little penguins as they waddle their way to and from the sea. From May to November, you might be lucky enough to spot a whale. Dolphins and seals can also be seen frolicking in the water.
Assistant Lightkeeper’s Cottage
When night falls, retreat to the newly restored cottage, which features three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, laundry and two bathrooms. It fits up to eight people, and there’s a two night minimum stay on Gabo Island, so you’ll have plenty of time to relax and unwind. Go stargazing, and feel amazed by spectacular views of the cosmos.
Due to the remoteness of the area, you will need to plan ahead. Access to and from the island is weather dependent, so do bring enough food, medication and clothes with you in case there’s a delay with leaving the island. All rubbish must be taken off the island with you.
You can book your stay here, and learn more about the island here.