Recently I found myself in the scenic landscapes of the Flinders Ranges, one of South Australia’s most prized possessions and for Australian travellers at least, one of the most underrated landscapes to experience.
My visit to the Flinders Ranges was in the month of April, the perfect time to experience the region as the weather begins to cool off (summer is too hot) and before the winter settles in with chilly nights. April is therefore a perfect time of year to visit as would be May, and again in September/October before the heat of summer kicks back in.
Throughout my weeklong visit to the Flinders Ranges I experienced some of the best this region has to offer – from multi-day hikes to overnight heliswag camping, these are the experiences in the Flinders Ranges not to be missed.
Heliswag Camping in the Flinders Ranges
By far the most surreal experience of my time in the Flinders Ranges was to board a helicopter flight and land on a secluded ridge where a swag and camp set-up awaited me for a night of complete seclusion. The next morning you are collected by the pilot for a short flight back to Rawnsley Park Station where you can continue your journey through the scenic national parks below.
Flinders Retreat Glamping
If glamping is more your style, the new Flinders Retreat eco-glamping tent is about as romantic as it gets. This eco-friendly tent is located inside a private reserve, whereby your host will send you on your way with a loaded Eski full of treats and dinner for the evening, which you can enjoy in the privacy of your luxe tent (complete with a bathroom, bbq and private fire spot for the evening!)
The Arkaba Walk in the Flinders Ranges
This four-day hike is perhaps the best way to really get to know the land in a short space of time. The hike is guided by local guides who know their geology and are all too keen to share it with you. On this walk I learned about the history of the Flinders Ranges, all about the wildlife we encountered and many out of the ordinary facts I’m sure I’ll never remember! The highlight of this experience is sleeping under the stars in a swag, waking up to freshly brewed coffee and packing your day pack for another day of adventures on foot.
Arkaroola Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are interested in wildlife and want to guarantee sightings, make your way further north to the Arkaroola Wildlife Sanctuary where wildlife is in abundance. It is also here where you can enjoy unparalleled stargazing, join a ridgetop tour, and experience one of the most off-the-beaten-path locations in all of the country!
Visit the Iconic Prairie Hotel
If you’re passing by the Prairie Hotel on your travels, you can’t pass up the opportunity to stop at this classic outback pub. Although they are famous for their “feral feast”, vegetarians will be delighted to learn there are veggie-friendly options in the outback, too!
Read more: Hiking the Arkaba Walk in the Flinders Ranges