Heard Island and McDonald Islands

About Heard Island and McDonald Islands

Explore Heard Island and McDonald Islands — from Heard Island Volcano, Laurens Peninsula, to Sub-Antarctic Wilderness. Iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and unforgettable travel experiences await.

Wonderful Tourist Locations

Must-see destinations and iconic landmarks in Heard Island and McDonald Islands.

Heard Island Volcano

Active Big Ben volcano.

Laurens Peninsula

Glaciers and elephant seals.

Sub-Antarctic Wilderness

Remote UNESCO nature reserve.

Top Restaurants in Heard Island and McDonald Islands

Famous dining destinations, local flavours, and must-try culinary experiences.

Expedition

Atlas Cove Research Station Kitchen

Atlas Cove

Australia's Heard Island expedition base at Atlas Cove operates a communal kitchen serving hearty Australian field rations, canned goods, and fresh-baked bread for the small scientific teams who visit during brief summer windows. Meals are shared in the station's heated mess amid sub-Antarctic winds and penguin colonies. The only dining facility on these uninhabited volcanic islands.

Australian Shipboard

RSV Aurora Australis Mess

At Sea

Australian Antarctic Division supply voyages to Heard and McDonald Islands serve crew and scientists in the RSV Aurora Australis mess hall with standard shipboard fare—roast lamb, vegetable stews, and Anzac biscuits—during multi-week expeditions. The vessel's galley is the primary dining experience for anyone visiting these remote territories.

Expedition

Macquarie Island Base Canteen

Macquarie Island

While technically separate from HM, the Australian Antarctic Division's provisioning chain for Heard Island expeditions originates from Macquarie Island's research base canteen, serving expedition-grade hot meals—beef stew, damper bread, and tea—for transit personnel. These field kitchens define dining logistics for Australia's most isolated territories.