Outback Articles

Coober Pedy - you’ve never seen anything like it

"Coober Pedy-you’ve never seen anything like it”

Welcome to Coober Pedy, opal capital of the world. Famous for many things including its underground lifestyle with dugout homes, churches, museums, motels, shops and galleries; this cosmopolitan town lays claim to supplying the lion’s share of opals to the world.

You can’t come to Coober Pedy without soaking up some of its mining history at The Old Timers Mine or having a round of golf at one of the outback’s most unique Golf Clubs – a must for all serious (and not so serious) golfers. See more of Coober Pedy's Outback Tours and Attractions

Several guided tour options are available from Ando Tours (underground B & B), Riba’s and the Old Timers Mine ranging from 1.5 hours, full day and evening tours.

Sites to take in include one of the few drive in theatres still operating today.

Step back in time to our childhood with your regular screenings – details available from the Visitor’s Information Centre.

Various locations around town have been the backdrop for big budget movies and commercials including the Breakaways, the Painted Desert, Moon Plain and The Dingo Fence; all well worth a visit.

The lunar like landscape devoid of trees and grass makes for a spectacular sunset scene and a photographers delight.

Unique accommodation can be found at Underground B & B, and Riba’s Underground Camping and Tourist Park, something you will not experience anywhere else in the world.

Coober Pedy also makes a great starting point to explore the surrounding towns of Oodnadatta, William Creek and Marree – which houses an interesting Graveyard of local rail and transport history of the area, or the beginning of your exploration of the Oodnadatta, Strzelecki or Birdsville track, Lake Eyre or even The Simpson Desert – a word of warning though – make sure you and your vehicle are properly prepared if you intend to venture off the main roads and into the outback.

Remember: This is still frontier country!

Coober Pedy Home Page

June 27 2011