Instagram-able Flinders Ranges and Outback – your best photo ops!
Instagram-able Flinders Ranges and Outback – your best photo ops!
The ultimate way to experience Wilpena Pound and the Ikara Flinders Ranges is aboard a scenic flight with Air Wilpena. Depending on your flight of choice, the flight provides breathtaking views of Wilpena Pound and its surrounds including the Elder Range, Heysen Range, Bunyeroo Gorge, Brachina Gorge, St Mary Peak, Parachilna Gorge and Blinman township and Copper mine. You will clearly see how the Flinders Ranges appear to be a backbone on the landscape and the varying colours and textures of this ancient and beautiful land. An extraordinary sight and great for photographers.
Embark on the Blinman underground experience through the heritage Blinman Mine for a unique journey into the heart of an historic copper mine. Copper mining occurred in the area from 1862 through to 1918 when the ore ran out. Today, with the installation of an innovation sound and light system; which includes storytelling, light boxes, a mix of theatre and mining history, it transports people back in time, to the lives of the miners and their families during the second half of the 19th century. The Mine is the town’s cultural heritage and encourages people to have a different perspective and understanding for the area, enriching the lives of those who come to visit.
From outside the Mine, look up for the most spectacular view of the Milky Way and starlight sky. No binoculars are required to experience the beauty of the southern stars here.
Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is located 130km east of Leigh Creek in the rugged northern Flinders Ranges. Arkaroola features rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, magnificent gorges and mysterious waterholes, but the biggest draw card of all is the three astronomical observatories. Fitted with all manner of professional telescopes and other equipment, be totally enthralled as the beauty of the southern stars twinkles above you.
Located 4km south of Leigh Creek, and another 6km along a dirt road, you will find Aroona Dam. In 1996 the area surrounding Aroona Dam was declared a sanctuary, at which point a protected colony of Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies were reintroduced into the area, many of which can be spotted around the Dam today. Located in a beautiful valley making it a stunning scenic attraction, the sanctuary offers a spectacular walking trail, viewing and picnic area as well as established camping grounds.
With the choice of day, overnight or extended tours, guests wake up at the dawn of time in one of the oldest landscapes in the world. Ancient dramatic panoramas, peaceful tree-lined gorges, sand dunes, and a seasonal wealth of wildlife in this semi-arid zone create a journey back in time to life before the early settlement during which your form of transport is by camel. Guests can join Camel Treks Australia between the months of March - October. For overnight treks, sleep under the southern stars in comfortable swags - a pinnacle experience for many.
Where to stay? Leigh Creek Outback Resort is offering 2-night packages from $235*, plus receive a gourmet picnic hamper.