Did you know the average human spends 240 days of their life on the toilet? Dunny, outhouse, lavatory or restroom – whatever you call it, that’s a lot of throne time. You’d think with that much sitting around, we’d care a bit more about the décor. Lonely Planet’s latest book, Toilets of the World, shines a spotlight on 100 of the most bizarre and beautiful loos across the globe – and we could all take some inspo. Here are four worth the pit stop in Australia.
The d’Arenberg Cube, McLaren Vale, SA
Visitors might come to d’Arenberg Cube for wine tastings and long lunches, but they’re often delighted to discover the winery’s quirky toilets. Each pod features a cartoon inspired by the name of a d’Arenberg wine, such as these silly clown-face urinals. Now that’s what we call a royal flush!
Cistern Chapel, Maryborough, QLD
Who needs Italy’s Sistine Chapel when you’ve got Maryborough’s Cistern Chapel? Just 3.5 hours north of Brisbane, this public toilet block is a cheeky nod to Michelangelo’s masterpiece – and we’re petitioning for crystal chandeliers, golden seats and stained-glass windows in every toilet from now on.
Backwoods thunderbox, Mungo National Park, NSW
Aussies are no strangers to a thunderbox (slang for portable toilet), like this classic pit stop in remote Mungo National Park. Pro tip: check for spiders before taking a seat.
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Outback (tin) can, WA
In Western Australia’s dusty outback, you’ll find plenty of ‘tin cans’ – which are basically waterless toilets that use a dual-chamber or composting system to dispose of your business. They might be a little smelly, but you’ll rarely have to wait in line.
You can explore more of the world's most lavish lavatories and outstanding outhouses in Lonely Planet's Toilets of the World here.