The Watcher of the Southern Ocean: Cape Otway Lighthouse Guide

Cape Otway Lighthouse is located at Cape Otway in the southwest of Victoria, Australia. It is one of the southernmost lighthouses on the Australian continent and one of the oldest existing lighthouses in the country. The following is a brief introduction about it: 1. Geographical location - Located near the end of the Great Ocean Road, it is surrounded by the Great Otway National Park and is adjacent to the famous "Twelve Apostles". - The geographical location is strategic. Historically, it was an important navigation route where the Bass Strait meets the Southern Ocean. 2. Historical background - Built in 1848, it was built due to frequent shipwreck accidents in the 19th century and is known as the "Lighthouse Keeper of the Southern Ocean". - From the 19th century to the early 20th century, it was an important navigation mark for European immigrant fleets to arrive in Australia. 3. Architectural features - The tower is about 20 meters high, with a white stone structure and a red metal dome on top, a typical colonial lighthouse style. - Oil lamps were used for lighting at first, but later they were upgraded to modern power and automatic control systems. 4. Highlights of the tour - Climb the tower to view the scenery: You can climb to the top of the tower and overlook the magnificent Southern Ocean and the Otway coastline. - Historical exhibition: There is a museum in the lighthouse, which displays the history of navigation and the life scenes of the lighthouse keepers. - Surrounding ecology: There are often wild animals such as koalas and kangaroos nearby, and you can also explore the rainforest trails and the ruins of the World War II radar station. 5. Scenery on the road Although I didn't enter the lighthouse in the end due to time and ticket reasons, the scenery along the way to the lighthouse is memorable enough. The morning mist was filled, the air was moist and fresh, with the unique coolness of the Southern Ocean. On both sides of the road are tall and straight pine forests, like a deep green corridor, and occasionally the sun penetrates the mist, casting mottled light and shadow. The whole road is quiet and mysterious, as if leading to a secret place isolated from the world. 6. Cultural significance - Known as the starting point of the Shipwreck Coast, it has witnessed the history of hundreds of shipwrecks. - Listed on the Australian National Heritage List, it is a popular attraction for self-driving tours on the Great Ocean Road. Tip: The lighthouse area is windy, so it is recommended to bring a windproof jacket; the best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset, when the light is suitable for photography. #summervacay#travel #naturalwonders #naturalwonders #familytravel #lighthouse