 Day 1: ADELAIDE - HAWKER
Travel to Hawker through the Pichi Richi Pass - detouring to the spectacular Buckaringa and Middle Gorges, both popular picnic and scenic areas. Yellow-footed rock wallabies (small relative of the kangaroo) can be found here. Travel north to the grave of Hugh Proby, and visit the Yourambulla Caves which have a number of Aboriginal rock paintings as well as offering a fine panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Overnight Hawker
Day 2: HAWKER - WILPENA POUND
Take the Morolana Scenic Drive that meanders its way through the natural beauty of the central Flinders Ranges where kangaroos and emus abound. The Elder Ranges Lookout provides an excellent view of the purple hues of the rugged peaks. Continue along the Hawker / Wilpena Road to Arkaroo Rock, to view ancient Aboriginal artwork.
Overnight Wilpena Pound
Day 3: WILPENA POUND
Experience the grandeur of the Wilpena Pound whilst exploring the Flinders Ranges National Park. This area is rich with bird and wildlife, and offers excellent bushwalking opportunities. Scenic flights over Wilpena Pound are available and are highly recommended.
Overnight Wilpena Pound
Day 4: WILPENA POUND - BLINMAN
Tour the Flinders Ranges National Park to Cazneaux Tree, immortalised forever by the photographer Harold Cazneaux. From here continue onto Blinman, taking time to view the Great Wall of China, a unique natural formation. The headstones at the Blinman cemetery recount events of this historic copper mining town.
Overnight Blinman
Day 5: BLINMAN - CHAMBERS GORGE - ARKAROOLA
East of Blinman the road winds through the Eregunda Valley to Chamber's Gorge, a rugged area with permanent rock pools, Aboriginal carvings and excellent bushwalking, the continue on to Arkaroola.
Overnight Arkaroola
Day 6: ARKAROOLA
Explore the rugged Mt. Painter Sanctuary. There is an abundance of bird and wildlife, unique geological formations and stunning scenery. Scenic flights can be arranged or those who enjoy bushwalking will find a treasure trove of walking trails.
Overnight Arkaroola
Day 7: ARKAROOLA - UMBERTANA - HAWKER
From Arkaroola skirt the side of the Gammon Ranges to the old Cornish-style Bolla Bollana Smelters. Travel to Beltana then detour east to the Sliding Rock copper mine ruins. Caution should be taken at this site due to the numerous mineshafts. Continue south to the historic township of Hawker.
Overnight Hawker
Day 8: HAWKER - QUORN - ADELAIDE
Depart the Flinders Ranges through the picturesque town of Quorn and return to Adelaide enjoying the scene of rolling fields of golden wheat and oats. |
