Curtin Springs, a privately owned cattle station located deep in Australia's red centre, is probably best known as one of the closest spots to Uluru on the drive from Alice Springs. The Curtin Springs roadhouse and campground is 80km from Uluru and is a popular choice for travellers looking for alternate accommodation or a rest stop on the long drive.
Curtin Springs is also home to Mount Conner (Atila in Yankunytjatjara language), considered to be the third major formation in this area along with Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Mount Connor
Mount Conner is on private land and the only access is via a guided tour. While this may be an option if you really want to get up close, you can certainly take in the natural beauty and true outback experience from the roadhouse.
Full Service Station, Curtin Springs
While the camping and room accommodation may not be suitable for everyone's taste, Curtin Springs offers a welcome respite from the vast wilderness that is the Northern Territory. We were staying in Yulara at the resorts near Uluru, but opted to take the drive to Curtin Springs to see Mount Conner. If you have your own transportation is it well worth the drive.
There is a onsite bird aviary with some surprisingly impressive displays of native birds. You can also have a meal, with steaks straight from the cattle station. For the more adventurous, you can sample a camel burger as well.
Resident Emu at Mount Connor
You will get to see the large mesa formation that is Mount Conner, visit the resident emu at Curtin Springs roadhouse and can even enjoy a cold beer in the bar.
