Outback Articles

Outback Australia - Top 10 Hot Spots

There is so much to do in the Australian outback.  Here is just a small snapshot of some of the fantastic tourist destinations you can explore...

1. Longreach

There is so much to do in outback Queensland's famous town. Experience the amazing Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, relax and unwind on the magical Thomson River Cruises, or view the Qantas Founders Outback Museum. There is always the option of the exhilarating MV Longreach Explorer, or why not enjoy Banjo's Outback Theatre and Woolshed.

2. Winton

Known for its stunning boulder opal, this is an ultimate outback holiday destination. Visit the dinosaur stampede at Lark Quarry or discover the history behind Australia's national song at the Waltzing Matilda Centre. For thrill seekers you cant go past the wild Winton Camel Races or Outback Festival.

3. Ayers Rock

Yulara really is base camp for the amazing mountains of Uluru and Olgas. From Yulara you can explore one of the most amazing rock formations in the world and for Simpsons fans, the Olgas can look like Homer laying flat sleeping, from a certain position.

4. Mount Isa

Mount Isa is a famous outback town nestled on the banks of the Leicharht River, the town is predominately a major industrial, commerical and administration centre. However, it is the history in mining, fossils and indigenous culture which makes it a real drawcard for tourists to outback Queensland

5. Katherine

This is the ideal town to set off on a red centre adventure. Here you can go to the breathtaking Katherine George, head south to Uluru, west to the amazing Kimberley's, or north to Darwin. Along the way, you will find brilliant National Parks boasting waterfalls, water holes and great walking tracks.

6. The Kimberley's

This tourist region offers exhilarating lookouts and boasts some of the most impressive scenery of North Western Australia including the Ord River and Mirima National Park Prehistoric looking ridges encase the banks of the Ord. You will be amazed by the serenity and calmness of the landscape.

7. Coober Pedy

This outback town is a great base to explore the Stuart Highway to the red centre and Darwin. Don't miss Lake Ayer and the surrounding National Park. You can go underground in the world capital of opal and enjoy the mesmerising arid landscapes and peacefulness of the desert.

8. Bourke

Being the one of the main centres of the outback, Bourke is a very popular tourist spot. The Kid man's Way offers fantastic camping sites with raw natural beauty. You can learn of the amazing heritage of Australia's best bush poets including Henry Lawson, and the Darling River is idea for some water sports, fishing and boating activities.

9. Broken Hill

Located in the heart of the Australian outback, this area is popular for exploring mines, and is a living museum. With exquisite art and craft shops, including Pro Hart's amazing work and sweeping views of the red, arid plains, it is perfect for a stopover to take inspiration from the magical scenery.

10. Lightning Ridge

Packed with tourists, this town boasts over 20 tourist attractions and opal mining adventures. There is so much to see, with fantastic scenic drives, walking tracks, therapeutic bore baths and friendly locals. It is the ideal base for a relaxing holiday to escape the winter blues.

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May 05 2011