The opportunity to stay at one of Victoria's most spectacular and remote locations has returned.
Gabo Island lies just off the pristine coast of Croajingolong National Park, at the far easterly point of Victoria.
The remote and rugged island features a historic lighthouse, resident penguins and seals, and magnificent views.
The lightstation buildings have just received an upgrade thanks to support from the Regional Tourism Investment Fund and it's once again possible to stay at the old assistant keeper's cottage.
The cottage has been given a fresh coat of paint and any wear and tear from a life in the teeth of southerly gales has been patched up, ensuring a warm and dry stay in any weather.
Up to eight people can stay at the cottage in three bedrooms. There are two bathrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen and laundry.
During the day, lucky visitors may spot whales and dolphins swimming past and sea eagles circling for prey.
In good weather, people can ramble over the shoreline and rock pools, discover the amazing underwater world in the clear waters of Santa Barbara Bay or relax on the sandy beach. Lighthouse tours can also be arranged.
At night, guests will have the island to themselves, and may see penguins from the colony return to their nests at dusk.
The Gabo Island lighthouse is the oldest still functioning in Victoria, and at 47 metres, the second-tallest in Australia. It was built from 1858 to 1862 in pink granite hewn from the island itself.
The granite is similar to stone found in Scotland, and it's believed many of the stonemasons that built the lighthouse were Scottish, used to working with such a hard material.
Gabo Island offers a unique destination but a visit requires careful planning as well as patience.
Access to and from the island is weather dependent, by boat from Mallacoota or with a licensed commercial aircraft from Merimbula. The Parks Victoria website
