While we love Melbourne, it's only natural that everyone craves a weekend getaway far from the big smoke every now and then. But if you want to take your city escape to the next level, this incredibly remote stay offers total, blissful isolation. Gabo Island is one of Victoria's most secluded locations, and it's just reopened its accommodation for those wanting an adventurous escape.
The island lies about 500 metres off the coast of Croajingolong National Park in far eastern Victoria, and is only accessible by boat or by air from Mallacoota. This rugged destination is almost totally wild, except for the presence of a historic lighthouse and lodgings for its keepers.
After being closed for an extended period to receive a much-needed renovation, the assistant lighthouse keeper's residence is ready to host guests again. Up to eight people can stay at the cottage, which has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and laundry. Apart from the lighthouse keeper and visitors who come by boat just for the day, guests staying in the accommodation are the only people on the island.
The island is home to a colony of adorable little penguins, which you can see making their way to and from their nests at dusk and dawn. Fur seals also live close by, and you can even spot dolphins and whales during the right seasons.
Gabo Island Lighthouse is still in operation – it's the second tallest lighthouse in Australia at 47 metres tall, and (most unusually) it's made from pink granite.
If you dream of unwinding in a completely isolated environment, this is the holiday for you. But a word of warning: it's not for the faint-hearted, as varied weather conditions can mean that visitors might have to stay longer on the island than planned. You can book a minimum three-night stay through the Parks Victoria website, from $443.56 a night. Find out more here.
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