【Must-Visit in Melbourne】Twelve Apostles: A Natural Masterpiece!

If you ask me which place near Melbourne is a "once-in-a-lifetime must-visit," my answer would undoubtedly be the Twelve Apostles! This place is absolutely breathtaking, and you'll leave with a sense of awe, thinking, "Wow! The Earth is truly incredible!"

📍 Where are the Twelve Apostles?
They are located along the **Great Ocean Road**, about 275 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, which takes roughly 4 hours by car. But the journey itself is stunning, with coastal views, forests, cliffs, and charming towns—it feels like you're in a scenic movie.

🏛️ What are the Twelve Apostles?
They are a series of massive limestone rock pillars in the ocean, originally part of the mainland. Over millions of years, erosion from waves and wind sculpted them into their current form. Although called the "Twelve Apostles," only seven to eight remain today, as some have collapsed over time.

🌅 When is the best time to visit?
• Sunrise and Sunset: The sunlight casts a golden glow on the pillars, creating a mesmerizing view you won't want to miss.
• Dusk: The sky turns shades of orange and red, accompanied by the sound of waves—it's poetic and serene.

🚁 What can you do there?
• Take photos from the viewing platforms: Wooden boardwalks allow you to capture the pillars from various angles.
• Helicopter tours (extra cost): Get a bird's-eye view of the entire coastline—it's absolutely breathtaking.
• Gibson Steps: Walk down to the beach for a close-up view of the pillars, which stand up to 45 meters tall!
• Nearby attractions: Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and The Grotto are also worth visiting.

🚌 How to get there?
• Self-drive: Offers the most freedom, but be cautious as the road has many curves.
• Join a tour: If you prefer not to drive, there are plenty of day tours available, many with Chinese-speaking guides.
• Helicopter tours: For a more luxurious experience, you can add an aerial tour, which lasts about 15 minutes and costs around AU$165.

📝 Tips
• Bring a windbreaker; it's very windy by the coast.
• Fully charge your camera/phone—you won't stop taking photos.
• Arrive early to avoid crowds.
• Don't just focus on the rock pillars; take in the entire coastline—it's truly spectacular.

🎯 Conclusion
The Twelve Apostles are more than just a collection of rocks; they are nature's masterpiece, sculpted over time. Here, you'll feel the power of the Earth, the traces of history, and a quiet sense of awe.
If you're in Melbourne, missing this spot would be a regret. Set aside a day to explore the Great Ocean Road and witness this world-class wonder! 🌊📸