Called the invisible continent, as it is comprised of more water than land, Australia and Oceania is a huge geopolitical region of boundaries which are rather hard to define. Capturing the beauty of this water world is also an ambitious challenge. The words and pictures, although insufficient to express the true beauty of this region, may at least spur your imagination and wanderlust.
7. The Great Ocean Road. Australia.
Limestone rocks along the Great Ocean Road.
Splendid Great Ocean Road hugs the coastline of Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean. Amazing limestone rock formations, and among them the famed 12 Apostles and the London Arch - giant rocks that emerge from the water - give the route its stunning beauty. The road is 243 km (150 miles) long and it was constructed by 3,000 returned soldiers as a memorial for the servicemen killed in the First World War.
London Arch.
Great Ocean Road.
6. Te Mata Peak. New Zealand.
Te Mata Trail.
Located in the North Island of New Zealand, in Hawke's Bay Province, Te Mata Peak surrounded by green rolling hills and vineyards is an amazing site of panoramic views and great trails perfect for bikers and walkers. The bay is famed for world class wines and the nearby Ruahine, Kaweka and Maungaharuru ranges offer breathtaking, dazzling vistas of mighty peaks and lush valleys.
View from Te Mata Peak.
Te Mata Peak.
5. Palau Islands
Palau Islands.
Palau, the country located on 200 exotic islands in the Pacific Ocean, is one of the world's smallest and youngest states (it became fully independent in 1994). The islands surrounded by amazing coral reefs and blue holes immersed in the crystal waters are great diving and snorkelling destinations, while its lush flora and rich fauna attract nature enthusiasts. Lonely Planet accurately concluded that the name of the country is an acronym for 'Palau's Archipelago: Lovely and Unique'.
Palau's landscape.
Palau.
4. Uluru. Australia.
Uluru.
Uluru (also called Ayers Rock or The Rock) is magic, inimitable, and spiritual. What makes this large sandstone rock formation so unique and beautiful? Is is size? The location? The color that changes at different times of the day and year? There could be as many answers as there are Uluru's visitors. For sure standing at the foot of the Rock is an unforgettable feeling and a mystical experience for those willing to understand the cultural significance of the place.
Climbing Uluru.
Uluru.
3. Fiji
Fiji. Liku Lagoon.
This South Pacific archipelago of around 300 islands and 500 islets is one of the most charming destinations around the globe. The paradise for swimmers, surfers, kayakers, and honeymooners - a place that seems to be this brighter side of the world. Fiji has it all to amaze you: dazzling coastline, eternal sunshine and fascinating interior of lush hills, volcano craters, and splendid waterfalls.
Navala Village.
Mamanucas. Fiji.
2. Sydney Harbour. Australia.
Sydney Harobour.
The Sydney Harbour (or Port Jackson) is considered the most beautiful natural harbour in the world. It is quite understandable why. The harbour is the heart of the city as well as a magnet for travellers, locals and visitors. The jewels of the harbour are not only the iconic Opera House and splendid Sydney Harbour Bridge, but also beautiful natural sites: little coves, calm beaches, bays and waterside parks.
Sydney Harbour.
Opera House.
1. The Southern Alps. New Zealand.
Arthur's Pass.
New Zealand is a remote and outlandish spot of mind-blowing beauty. Among its most amazing sites are the Southern Alps that run along the western side of the South Island. This powerful mountain range is home to the famed Mount Cook, huge Tasman Glacier, turquoise lakes and numerous national parks covered with dense temperate rainforests. It's one of those destinations to fall in love with at first sight.
Mt. Cook.
Mt. Cook.
