Set on the banks of the American River, overlooking Eastern Cove, this welcoming lodge is perfect for wildlife lovers. It is wonderfully remote yet just a 30-minute drive from Kingscote and Penneshaw. Lodge activities include nature trails, a nocturnal walk, birdwatching and a pelican feeding experience. Facilities include a pool, restaurant and barbecue area.
*Denotes local charge
Arkaba
5
The Flinders Ranges is one of Australia’s most accessible Outback destinations, and this historic homestead offers a taste of luxury amidst the rugged landscape. It’s the ideal Australian bush adventure. A guided wilderness programme is included in the cost, with expert field guides showcasing the region’s geological history, wildlife and pastoral heritage on 4x4 safaris and guided bush walks. The local wildlife watching is excellent, and various birdlife, emus and populations of red and western grey kangaroos can be spotted around the property. An eco-friendly approach is taken to minimise the impact on the land. The experience at Arkaba is an intensely personal one – think staying with friends in the country, or a private safari lodge. Meal times are a highlight, with hosted dinners around an old wool classing table on the outdoor terrace, and the very best local produce. There’s a South Australian wine cellar, and a premium open bar adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Rooms are named after early settlers, explorers and property owners. Each room is individual in design, but all have an elegant heritage feel, with plush en-suite bathroom and shaded terrace. There are no telephones or televisions; the focus here is on the experience offered by this beautiful property and its breathtaking surroundings.
An operating sheep station, the family-owned Rawnsley Park Station has a rugged setting at the foot of Wilpena Pound – an impressive natural amphitheatre in the heart of the Flinders Ranges National Park in an area known for its ancient mountain ranges, rich Aborigine heritage, historic towns and native wildlife. It’s ideal as an accessible Outback escape from Adelaide, as part of a self- drive itinerary exploring South Australia, or if you’re travelling further north into the Outback. The owners at Rawnsley Park are committed to sustainable tourism, working with the local authorities to protect the diverse vegetation of Rawnsley Bluff, and creating environmentally-friendly villas. The Woolshed Restaurant serves up regional cuisine, and the station offers an extensive touring programme, arranging everything from guided bush walks to flights over Wilpena Pound. Accommodation ranges from camping to a traditional homestead and eight beautifully-appointed eco villas. The spacious architect-designed villas are set in a secluded site, but you’ll still be within easy reach of the station’s facilities. Designed in harmony with the natural environment, they come complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, a retractable ceiling offering views of the night sky from your bed, and private deck with uninterrupted views of Wilpena Pound.
The highlight of South Australia’s Flinders Ranges National Park, Wilpena Pound is a stunning natural amphitheatre set among the astonishing hues of an 800 million year-old quartzite and limestone outcrop that’s sacred to the Adnyamathanha people and rich in wildlife. Kangaroos and emus roam freely at this resort, which offers the only accommodation in the park and is sensitively constructed to blend in with its remarkable environment. There’s an on-site restaurant serving modern Australian cuisine, a sociable bar, and a general store for any self-catering needs. Inside the resort you’ll also find the National Park Visitor Information Centre, which has a wealth of information including detailed maps and bush walking trails. A fantastic range of tours and activities on offer include 4x4 trips into the park and scenic flights. A campground is situated on one side of the resort, with the hotel rooms in a separate area on the other side. Brachina and Aroona make up the standard rooms and are best suited to couples, while the deluxe rooms – Heysen and Edowie – are more spacious and have a kitchenette, ideal for families or if you’re looking for more self-catered facilities. For a premium camping experience, the new Ikara Safari Camp has 15 safari tents complete with kingsize bed, en suite bathroom, air-conditioning and a private deck, perfect for a rustic luxe Outback experience.
Rawnsley Park Station
Wilpena Pound Resort
