Bookings open to see one of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks - and it will cost you
Tourists now have to book and will soon also have to pay to see the Twelve Apostles, the stone rock stacks along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.
As attractions around the world battle over tourism, the fee will include entry to a new $126 million tourist centre as well as the chance to see the seven remaining apostles.
You’ll soon have to pay to see one of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks, the Twelve Apostles. Getty Images
Tourism bosses had mooted the plan last year and now the details have been revealed.
The area sees about two million visitors a year – about 16,000 per day – and the charge would go toward preserving the area and protecting it from overtourism.
It’s one of the nation’s most famous road trips.
The Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre, which will have a café, kiosk, gallery space, visitor information spaces and facilities, and a rooftop lookout opens next week.
It will also have a big car park to handle the thousands of cars and dozens of tourist buses which arrive daily. Accessible pathways have also been created.
Bosses call it a “stunning gateway to Victoria’s south-west,” and say it will connect millions of visitors to the region’s famous natural wonders and captivating towns.
And while entry will be free until April 2027, bookings are now open and essential to visit and get car parking.
The Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre, which will open next week. Twelve Apostles
However, the cost for next year has still not been set but has been reported to be under $20.
The Victorian government said the money will help to “protect and improve the coast and parks of the Great Ocean Road for generations to come”.
“The natural wonder of the Twelve Apostles is a drawcard for millions of people and this new visitor centre will support sustainable tourism along Victoria’s southwest coastline.” Catherine King Acting Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories said.
Michaela Settle, Victorian Minister for Rural and Regional Development, said it was a “once-in-a-generation investment in the Great Ocean Road” and said it will create jobs and help local businesses.
Torquay is the starting point of the Great Ocean Road Road. Getty
Multiple attractions across the world have introduced entry fees over the past few years.
The Trevi Fountain in Rome is one of the most famous. It costs $3.50 to visit during daylight hours.
Other famous natural landmarks in Australia charge fees: a three-day park pass to see Uluru will cost you $38, and most national parks require daily car passes.
Many cities, such as Amsterdam and Edinburgh, also charge visitors a tourist tax.
