ALICE SPRINGS - AN OUTBACK ADVENTURE
We recently swapped beaches and bays for the red dirt and 30 degrees, which made for the perfect mid-Winter break. What felt like a quintessentially ‘Australian’ experience, exploring the outback had us coming home feeling invigorated and connected to the raw, rugged beauty of our remarkable country.
Our journey spanned four days amidst the celebration of an intimate destination wedding for some of our dearest friends. See here our top recommendations and highlights from our Alice Springs adventure.
Accommodation
Desert Yurt - avoiding your normal hotels and motels, we researched Airbnb options and could not pass up staying in this Desert Yurt. Hosted privately by a lovely married couple Phillipe & Belinda, this was the best scenario of glamping with home amenities and comforts. Waking up with nothing but morning birds and ending the day with magical sunsets and cooking by the outdoor fire, this glamping style oasis was located in the East of Alice Springs - a mere 10 bike ride or 6 minute drive into town.
Food & Drinks
Base Café 8070- excellent coffee with friendly staff, this café is part of the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility. We were sad they aren’t open on Sundays.
Page 27 Café - best for all day breakfast, fresh and healthy lunch options, coffee, locally made juices and smoothies. This green-house dining vibe is located in the heart of Alice Springs town centre, with friendly service and (although we didn’t have ours this trip) - dog friendly!
Epilogue Lounge & Rooftop Bar - serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with each night featuring a special/live entertainment/ leisure activity. We enjoyed a casual lunch as we landed, with great diverse menu offerings and alfresco dining options to bask in the Winter sun.
Hanuman - perfect for an elevated dinner option, this restaurant is part of the Hilton Hotel and features another location in Darwin. Renowned for taking you on a food journey through South East Asia, the menu does not disappoint. Serving up fresh ingredients, authentic dishes accompanied by a decent wine list - the attentive service staff are the icing on the cake. Warning: make sure you book to avoid disappointment of missing out, and ensure you dine with an empty stomach!
Leisure & Adventure Activities
When you are in the heart of Australia's outback oasis, time is the only limitation. To make the most of our adventure, we hired a ‘Jimny’ that offers 4WD characteristics enabling you to comfortably get around this captivating gem. Here we share our curated ‘must-do list’ that ensures you make the most of your adventure, even if you're short on time.
Alice Springs Telegraph Station - a stunning piece of history located in the center of Alice Springs with multiple connecting hiking and mountain bike trails for all fitness levels.
The MacDonnell Ranges, or Tjoritja in Arrernte, is a mountain range located in southern Northern Territory, split into the East MacDonnell Ranges and West MacDonnell Ranges.
West MacDonnell Ranges is a popular National Park that spans over 200km just west of Alice Springs. Our 6 hour self-guided return day trip saw us exploring the following locations. Advice: pack a picnic, swimmers and a towel - most locations include BBQ facilities and gorgeous swimming holes that is the perfect break in the midday heat.
Simpsons Gap - where you will officially find the ‘red dirt’. A great place to start and set the tone for a scenic day ahead.
Standley Chasm - stunning natural architecture with the option to hike upwards as part of the Larapinta trail. Warning; this is not for the faint hearted, as your first climb will see you walking an incline for a solid 20 minutes up steep rocks. Trust us when we say the view is worth it!
Ellery Creek Big Hole - the perfect location to conclude with a swim after you have spent the middle of the day in peak heat, along with a BBQ cooked lunch.
What we would have also included if we had more time?
West MacDonnell Ranges - exploring further to Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen Gorge
Did you know…
At Mills + Franks, we specialize in crafting tailor-made travel experiences?. Let us curate every detail of your next adventure, ensuring that every moment is as unique as you are. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter itineraries and hello to a personalized journey that reflects your passions, interests, and desires. Contact us today to embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure designed just for you
