I love the Flinders Ranges. There is something spectacular to see at every bend and turn of the road.
Flinders Ranges (©paula mcmanus)
I've written a few articles on some of my favourite places (so far) in the Flinders. There is so much to see, so much to do and so many wonderful experiences in the Flinders. This article is to summarise those articles as an easy reference for those who are travelling to the Flinders.
Let's start with accommodation: there's plenty to choose from. There's the resort in Wilpena Pound, there are glamping and camping and pub and station stays. When I've travelled to the Flinders, I've loved my accommodation at
Merna Mora Station. It's close to everything, is cheap, clean, comfortable and has a true outback feel. There's air conditioning in the rooms for the warmer months and a great big open fire pit outside for stargazing for those cooler nights.
Flinders Ranges (©paula mcmanus)
Close to Merna Mora Station is the western entrance to the
Moralana Scenic Drive . The 28km drive takes you through some incredibly stunning landscapes in and around Merna Mora Station, Arkaba Station, Wilpena Pound and Elder Range.
When exiting the Moralana Scenic Drive from the west, you'll be on the main bitumen road to
Wilpena Pound. There are many roadside parking bays where you can pull in and enjoy the spectacular views of the ranges.
Flinders Ranges (©paula mcmanus)
Very close to Wilpena Pound is the iconic
Cazneaux tree. The tree is named "The Spirit Of Endurance" and is definitely a spot to stop and enjoy.
From the main Wilpena road, you can also access the
Bunyeroo Valley and Brachina Gorge drives.
Yellow footed rock wallaby (©paula mcmanus)
If you continue on with the Wilpena Road towards Blinman, you'll see the signs to
Sacred Canyon and
Arkaroo Rock. These are 2 of the 3 significant Aboriginal cultural sites that are open to the public. The other art site is
Yourambulla Caves - approximately 11kms south of Hawker, near the
Kanyaka Station ruins.
The drive through Brachina Gorge or through the Moralana Track will take you to the western side of Wilpena Pound. The Bunbinyunna Range at sunset is simply magical and it's a fantastic spot to be if you want spectacular sunset photos. The bitumen road from Hawker is an easier drive, but can be tricky at sunrise and sunset due to the large number of kangaroos on the road.
Arkaroo Rock (©paula mcmanus)
For a great meal and to sample foods that are a bit different and very unique, I can recommend stopping at the
Prairie Hotel in Parachilna (population 2). You certainly won't forget it!
