This Victorian Island is Now Home to One of the Most Unique Getaways in the State

Ever wanted to stay on your own remote island, but don’t want the hefty price tag that’s often involved? This unique new accommodation on Gabo Island, 500m off the coast of Victoria, has just reopened to the public (at a rate you can actually afford!).

The Victorian Government has recently opened unique accommodation on Gabo Island, an isolated natural retreat off the coast of East Gippsland’s Croajingolong National Park. Restoration works on the island’s Assistant Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage are now complete, meaning the historic accommodation will be open for bookings from Friday 13th of March. Rates start at $431.90 a night for up to eight people, just over $50 per person per night.

Sunset overlooking the lighthouse

About the Assistant Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage

The accommodation boasts three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a laundry, and two bathrooms. It can host up to eight guests, with a minimum two-night stay.

If you don’t own your own boat, charter boat businesses can transport you to Gabo Island off the coast of Mallacoota (a 14km trip). You should check in with your transport arrangement 24 hours in advance, as weather conditions can cause delays.

What is there to do on Gabo Island?

Constructed in the 1850s, the Gabo Island lighthouse is built from pink granite local to the island, and at 47m high, it’s the second-tallest lighthouse in Australia. For the maritime history nerds among us, you can even arrange a tour of the lighthouse and learn more about its use. Check out the monument to the ship Monumental City, the historic jetty shed on the island, and the old cemetery.

For the bird-lovers, bring your binoculars, because there are White-bellied sea eagles, Whistling kites, Marsh harriers, and Brown falcons that can be spotted on and around the island throughout the day. After dusk, keep an eye out for Short-tailed shearwaters and Little penguins.

There’s also a colony of Australian fur seals that live close to the island, and you can even spot whales in the right season (May – July or October – November).

The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage, Gabo Island

‘Gabo Island is one of the most serene, untouched corners of Victoria’, says Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos.

‘Whether you’re looking to learn more about its lighthouse, get amongst the abundance of native flora and fauna, or curl up on the couch with a good book, a stay on the island is sure to be equal parts restorative and unforgettable.’

For more information about Gabo Island Lighthouse and how to book your stay at the Assistant Lightkeepers Cottage, visit the Parks Victoria website.

Images supplied by Parks Victoria