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MacDonnell Range Holiday Park

Alice Springs, Northern Territory

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Casa Nostra Restaurant

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Dine in a relaxed and family friendly atmosphere at the Casa Nostra Restaurant located in Alice Springs. Select from their delicious wide ranging menu of home made pizzas, pasta or meat dishes, a genuine example of Italian cuisine, while enjoying their hospitality.

The Casa Nostra is a 'bring your own' alcohol restaurant.

Attractions

  • Dining and Eating Out (20)
    1. Adelaide House Museum Journey to the heart of Alice Springs and be inspired by Rev John Flynn’s historic vision for the bush.
    2. Araluen Cultural Precinct A self-guided walking tour around the Araluen Cultural Precinct provides a fascinating glimpse into the art, culture and heritage of Central Australia, and into some of the local identities that helped develop the region.
    3. Balloons Bistro The mood is easy and casual at the licensed Balloons Bistro located within the Crowne Plaza Alice Springs. The menus are varied and fresh, and the service attentive. Enjoy a variety of contemporary Australian cuisine, whilst overlooking the pool and landscape gardens. Balloons Bistro also offers both a continental and full American breakfast.
    4. Barra on Todd Restaurant and Bar The Barra on Todd Restaurants is Alice’s first seafood inspired restaurant. Come along and experience the stylish surrounds and contemporary cuisine. Barra on Todd’s menu pays homage to its namesake, with a variety of barramundi dishes, and meat lovers, and vegetarians haven't been forgotten either.
    5. Bojangles Saloon and Dining Room Bojangles Saloon and Dining Room, located in Alice Springs, is just like a licensed museum. Grab a cold beer and wander around as you view Australia’s history through the vast collection of memorabilia on display.
    6. Casa Nostra Restaurant Dine in a relaxed and family friendly atmosphere at the Casa Nostra Restaurant located in Alice Springs. Select from their delicious wide ranging menu of home made pizzas, pasta or meat dishes, a genuine example of Italian cuisine, while enjoying their hospitality.
    7. Cat's Tango Due to forthcoming renovations that will be undertaken at the Comfort Inn Outback Alice Springs, they will be closed from 1 December 2009 until 1 March 2010.
    8. Coolamon Cafe The Coolamon Cafe located within the Alice Springs Desert Park offers a full cafe dining experience. Views of the picturesque West MacDonnell Ranges and the sounds of the native birds and wildlife await you, as you sit back and relax. Choose from a wide range of hot and cold buffets, sandwiches, wraps, pastries and cakes with great espresso coffee and teas, fresh juices and cool drinks. The airconditioned cafe is licensed from 11.30am daily with a range of wine and beer available.
    9. Gemtree At the gateway to the Central Australian gem fields and 140 kilometres north east of Alice Springs on the Plenty Highway, Gemtree, a quiet bush caravan park, is nestled alongside the Gillen Creek in attractive natural mulga country. The billabong at the entry to the park attracts a wide variety of birdlife and the 100 hectare property has a popular nature trail along which many plant species have been identified.
    10. Hanuman Restaurant Alice Springs Conveniently located at the Crowne Plaza Alice Springs, the Hanuman, with the grandeur of Australia’s desert landscape all around and the stylish decor with striking Asian artefacts, makes an ideal setting for lunch or dinner. The award-winning team, headed by renowned chef, Jimmy Shu, presents the finest South East Asian cuisine showcasing classic dishes using fresh produce and authentic ingredients.
    11. Lasseters Hotel Casino Nestled at the foot of the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges, Lasseters Hotel Casino is the centre of excitement in Alice Springs. You can enjoy great entertainment, dining and gaming. Try your hand at blackjack, roulette or other games. Enjoy the slot machines and TAB facilities.
    12. National Road Transport Hall of Fame The National Road Transport Hall of Fame is a museum that is unique to most other road transport museums throughout the world in that it has taken a lateral approach to the restoration of its world. Vehicles are props to the trials and tribulations of road transport pioneers covering all forms of road transport, from the camel strings of old to today’s modern roadtrains and stretchliner coaches.
    13. Old Ghan Heritage Railway and Museum Relive the history of the Old Ghan and the pioneering past as you wander through the Old Ghan Train Museum and take a s stroll through the old train and carriages. Learn a little about the legend that is the Old Ghan Train – one of the most famous railways in the world. Enjoy a Sunday morning train ride at the MacDonnell Siding, located 8 kilometres south of Alice Springs or get a group together and book a dinner on the Old Ghan Train for the night. This is the ideal way to view the magnificent Central Australian desert at sunset followed by the clearest of night skies while at the same time reliving an adventure that is truly unique to Central Australia.
    14. Olive Pink Botanic Garden The Olive Pink Botanic Garden lies adjacent to the Todd River not far from the centre of Alice Springs. Miss Olive Muriel Pink, legendary anthropologist, Aboriginal rights campaigner and artist, was responsible for the gazettal of the garden area in 1956. Miss Pink was the Honorary curator and lived on site until her death in 1975. Miss Pink and her Warlpiri gardener, Johnny Jambijinpa Yannarilyi, planted groves of mulgas and rows of bean trees, river red gums and many other native plants which they arduously maintained through the long drought in the 1950s and 1960s. Several of these original plantings still survive in the garden today. After Miss Pink's death, the NT Government took over management of the reserve and established the visitor centre and most of the infrastructure present today. The botanic garden was opened to the public in 1985.
    15. Red Ochre Grill Restaurant Located in the heart of the Todd Mall, Alice Springs, the Red Ochre Grill Restaurant has created a whole new menu of Australian cuisine using traditional native fruits, berries, Australian seafood and game meat, and also offers some of Australia’s finest wines and beers.
    16. Royal Flying Doctor Service The Royal Flying Doctor Service is an Australian icon and a world first. With the help of Alf Traegers pedal radio and advice from one of Australia's most famous pioneer aviators Hudson Fysh, the Reverend John Flynn's Aerial Service took to the sky on 5 May 1928, to help sick and injured outback pioneers. The organisation now services an area of more than 7,150,000 square kilometres providing a Mantle of Safety to an area larger than Western Europe. The service now has 27 bases Australia wide and maintains 51 aircraft.
    17. Samphire Restaurant The Samphire Restaurant is located within Lasseters Hotel Casino, Alice Springs. Named after an edible herb found in the Australian desert, the Samphire Restaurant is fully licensed and provides a variety of Australian cuisine for all tastes, in a modern, comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. The Samphire Restaurant offers a continental and hot breakfast buffet and different dinner options.
    18. Sounds of Starlight Theatre Experience the pulse of Australia. The Didgeridoo Show Outback has earned a reputation as one of Central Australia’s most memorable live shows. Internationally acclaimed didgeridoo player and story teller, Andrew Langford presents this ancient instrument with live percussion and spectacular sounds and visions at the Sounds of Starlight Theatre. You will be moved by the stirring renditions and spectacular imagery that captures Central Australia’s unique natural, cultural and pioneering history. A spellbinding musical and visual journey, and a truly unique experience in the heart of the Alice.
    19. The Juicy Rump The Juicy Rump is a dining and entertainment venue in Alice Springs, catering to a wide variety of customers and offering affordable meals for the whole family. Boasting an open kitchen and modern decor, The Juicy Rump provides a place to relax and enjoy a good time. The spacious deck area, with views of the MacDonnell Ranges, is a great place to enjoy a drink or casual meal in the appealing Alice Springs weather.
    20. The Overlanders Steakhouse The Overlanders Steakhouse, located in Alice Springs, was established in 1971 to honour the men and women of Australia who ventured into its great outback country. Overlanders were the people involved in the largest movements of cattle in the history of Australia. Also honoured are explorers, miners, settlers and bush workers. The Steakhouse is now often described as a living museum, offering a unique dining experience. One feature of the menu is the Drovers Blowout, which includes soup, emu, crocodile, camel, barramundi, beef and kangaroo. Finish off with tea, coffee and dessert and take your souvenir menu home. An a la carte menu is also available. Accommodation pick ups and drop offs are available as part of the Drovers Blowout package.
  • Entertainment (2)
    1. Alice Springs Turf Club Visit the Alice Springs Turf Club, located at Pioneer Park Alice Springs. Horse racing has been part of the pioneering history of Alice Springs and today, 125 years after the first race meeting was conducted, Pioneer Park Racecourse offers race meetings 34 times per year. From April to May, the racecourse showcases Central Australian racing with the staging of the annual XXXX Gold Alice Springs Cup Carnival.
    2. Araluen Arts Centre The Araluen Arts Centre is the focal point of Alice Springs’ performing and visual arts scene, incorporating a series of art galleries and a professional theatre. The galleries feature a program of exhibitions with a focus on Aboriginal art from Central Australia, and contemporary art by local and Australian artists, with traveling exhibitions being a key feature of the annual visual arts program. The Albert Namatjira Gallery displays a rotating selection of paintings by this famous Aboriginal artist, his descendants and contemporaries.
  • Galleries, Museums and Collections (23)
    1. Aboriginal Desert Art Gallery Aboriginal Desert Art Gallery is one of Australia's largest Aboriginal art galleries. Located in the Todd Mall, Alice Springs, the gallery was established in 1985. Over 50 local Aboriginal artists are represented, and there is an extensive display of Aboriginal art on display. Travellers can visit to view unique, beautiful artworks, to either browse or purchase.
    2. Alice Springs RSL Military Museum The Alice Springs War Museum is housed within the Alice Springs RSL Club. The museum is acknowledged as the most significant regional collection of war memorabilia in Australia, dating from circa 1854 to the Timor conflict.
    3. Alice Springs School of the Air History, Lifestyle, Innovation – Immerse yourself in the distinctive history of Alice Springs School of the Air that dates back to 1951. Gain an insight to the lifestyles of its students and discover the innovative techniques making it possible for children living in remote central Australia to participate in school classes without having to travel vast distances everyday.
    4. Alice Springs Telegraph Station The township of Alice Springs obtained its name from the waterhole at this historic Telegraph Station. This historical reserve marks the original site of the first European settlement in Alice Springs. Established in 1872 to relay messages between Darwin and Adelaide, the Alice Springs Telegraph Station is the best preserved of the 12 stations along the Overland Telegraph Line.
    5. Arunta Art Gallery and Book Shop Explore the Arunta Art Gallery and Book Shop, located at the southern end of Todd Mall in Alice Springs, and discover an impressive display of local Aboriginal art and craft, including paintings.
    6. CAAMA Visitor Centre The Central Australian Aborigianl Media Association (CAAMA) Visitor Centre is a static and interactive exhibit giving visitors a brief history of Indigenous media in Australia.
    7. Central Australian Aviation Museum Located in the original Connellan Airways hangar on the site of Alice Springs’ first air strip, the museum houses early flying doctor planes, a restored DC3 and other historical aircraft and aviation memorabilia. View the remains of the ‘Kookaburra’, and learn the tragic story of its crew who perished in the Tanami Desert searching for Kingsford-Smith, the famous Australian Aviator.
    8. Central Craft This building was originally the single staff quarters and mess for Connellan Airways employees. Now it’s headquarters to Central Craft. Head to the studio where you can watch and talk to the artists at work, before exploring the shop where local art and craft is sold. There’s a diverse range of crafts including jewelry, pottery, weaving, printed silk and woodwork.
    9. Fred McKay Museum Be inspired by the story of an outback ‘hero’, Rev Fred McKay - a much loved and highly respected friend of the many people who lived and came to pioneer new lifestyles in the outback. Learn about his hand in the development of hospitals, medical services, and hostels for school children and his support of bush mothers. Also, explore 'Voices from the Heart' - a project which share insights into who and how people live in the outback and what makes them 'tick'. There are stories of ordinary people who achieved extraordinary success against huge challenges.
    10. Gallery Gondwana Pty Ltd Recognised as one of Australia’s leading Indigenous art galleries since 1990, Gallery Gondwana, located in Todd Mall, Alice Springs, sources work from leading established and emerging artists from Australia and the South Pacific. Gallery Gondwana showcases fine art in the mediums of painting, works on paper, fibre, glass, metal and wood.
    11. Hartley Street School The former Hartley Street School, of Alice Springs, was initially constructed in 1930 to cater for an increase in population resulting from the town's status as a railway terminal. Enrolments over the next decade caused continual overcrowding and in 1945 a kindergarten and classroom, designed by the architect, B.C.G. Burnett, were constructed. The wooden floors and distinctive octagonal shape of the new addition with its adjacent classroom provide a great contrast with the concrete floored, simple design of the earlier construction. The buildings reflect the changing styles and requirements of school design at different periods.
    12. Ironwood Arts Located in beautiful surrounds, Ironwood Arts specialises in contemporary indigenous fine art and have a local understanding and knowledge of Central Australia art. Artwork is bought directly from well known and emerging artists and all artwork sold comes with a photograph of the artist and a certificate of authenticity.
    13. Irrkerlantye Arts Irrkerlantye Arts is a vibrant community art centre for Central and Eastern Arrernte people living in Alice Springs and surrounding outstations. They produce a variety of artworks including works on canvas, prints and quality giftware exhibited and sold in select galleries and stores across Australia.
    14. Iwantja Arts and Crafts Iwantja Arts and Crafts offers authentic Aboriginal art and crafts. The gallery has a large display of items, including woven baskets, leather goods, Punu (wooden artefact) and paintings. You’ll have the opportunity to meet and observe the artists at work and to purchase one or more of these beautiful works of art.
    15. Mbantua Art Gallery and Cultural Museum Alice Springs Mbantua Art Gallery and Cultural Museum in Alice Springs is home to one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia. Located in the Todd Mall, and specialising in indigenous art from the Utopia region of Central Australia, Mbantua Gallery and Cultural Museum has over 1,500 square metres of fabulous displays, with more than 200 Aboriginals artists represented.
    16. Museum of Central Australia Journey through the fascinating evolution of Central Australia from the big bang to ancient rocks containing the earliest traces of life and evidence of a great inland sea. Follow the development of the landscape and local mega-fauna to the more familiar mammals and insects found today. The museum features a replica of a local paleontological dig, an ancient waterhole with some surprising mega-fauna including a giant freshwater crocodile and the largest bird that ever lived, Dromornis Stirtoni, dated at eight million years.
    17. Ngurratjuta Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre Ngurratjuta Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre, located in Alice Springs, offers the rare opportunity for visitors to not only view the many superb dot paintings and expressive watercolours on show in the gallery, but to also to see the artists at work and to talk to them about their paintings. Experience and learn about Aboriginal culture through their dramatic art pieces, as you browse through the exhibition of completed works, which are also for sale.
    18. Old Timers Traeger Museum Old Timers Traeger Museum, in Alice Springs, houses a collection of photographs and paraphernalia from the early days of white settlement in Central Australia. See how early Territorians lived, worked, travelled and obtained their supplies.
    19. Papunya Tula Artists Papunya Tula Artists, located in Alice Springs, are dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the Western Desert Culture and have a total of more than 100 contributing artists. Artworks from the Papunya Tula Artists are internationally renowned and have been exhibited in major galleries, museums, both within Australia and overseas as well as many large private collections. Distinctive and powerful artworks capture the artist’s knowledge of traditional body and sand paintings.
    20. Stuart Town Gaol The construction of the Stuart Town Gaol and associated police station, located in Alice Springs, was commenced in 1907 utilising the expertise of local builders with stone and timber obtained from the district. Inadequate facilities, jeopardised by periodic flooding of the Todd River, at the former site adjacent to the southern side of Heavitree Gap, prompted the move, which was officially completed in 1909.
    21. Studio 12 Studio 12 is a refreshingly different style of gallery located right in the heart of town and showcases the work of respected local artists and reflects the vibrancy and diversity of the Alice Springs art community. Studio 12 offers a wide range of contemporary Australian and landscape art in a variety of media, and is owned and operated collectively by the artists, with assistance from Leaping Lizards Gallery. Studio 12 aims to maintain high standards of art, presentation and customer service that will further raise the profile of Alice Springs as a destination for art lovers.
    22. Tangentyere Artists Tangentyere Artists is an Aboriginal Art Centre, owned and directed by the Tangentyere Council. Located in Alice Springs at the council headquarters, the enterprise specialises in acrylic paintings and local seed jewellery produced by over 400 Town Camp residents.
    23. Titjikala Arts Titjikala Arts is located in a small Aboriginal community, about 120 kilometres from Alice Springs. Inspired by their striking environment, characterised by red sand hills and desert oaks, the artists create colourful paintings and intriguing wire creations that include animal and bird representations. These inventive sculptures of wire, metal and discarded bits and pieces have been exhibited as far afield as New York.
  • Historical Sites and Heritage Locations (14)
    1. Anzac Hill The most visited landmark in Alice Springs, Anzac Hill is the ideal spot for an overview of the town. The lookout offers a panoramic view of Alice Springs and the beautiful surrounding ranges. Anzac Hill has significance for the local Aboriginal people. The Anzac Hill Memorial was unveiled on 25 April 1934 (Anzac Day) and was originally dedicated to all those members of the armed services who had paid the supreme sacrifice during World War I. It has now become a memorial to all those who have served in the defence of their country during all wars in which Australia has participated.
    2. Arltunga Historical Reserve Located 110 kilometres east of Alice Springs, via the East MacDonnell Ranges, the historic town of Arltunga was officially Central Australia's first town and once supported up to 3000 people. Arltunga was born out of a gold rush in 1887, when alluvial gold was discovered in a dry creek bed. Fortune seekers had to travel 600 kilometres from the Oodnadatta railhead, often on foot, to seek their fortune in a harsh environment. At the time, Alice Springs consisted of just the Overland Telegraph Station, and was little more than an outpost that had expanded as it became the supply base of Arltunga. Mining activity continued in the area for 30 years.
    3. Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve, located 160 kilometres from Alice Springs, is home to Chambers Pillar, a spectacular solitary column towering 40 metres above the Simpson Desert plain.
    4. Corroboree Rock Conservation Reserve As the name suggests, Corroboree Rock Conservation Reserve, is a site of great significance to local Aboriginal people, as are many of the sites in the MacDonnell Ranges.
    5. Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve, 145 kilometres south west of Alice Springs, contains 12 craters which were formed when a meteor hit the earth’s surface 4,700 years ago. The Henbury Meteor, weighing several tonnes and accelerating to over 40,000 kilometres per hour, disintegrated before impact and the fragments formed the 12 craters.
    6. Illamurta Springs Conservation Reserve The Illamurta Springs Conservation Reserve is one of the most peaceful and isolated reserves in the Northern Territory. Its natural values are due to the impressive southern foothills of the James Range and the presence of a permanent natural spring. The site provides a moist habitat for several relict aquatic plant species, and it protects the ruins of the Illamurta Police Camp. The Illamurta Springs Police Camp was established between 1893 and 1912 after the closure of the Boggy Hole Police Station, in the Finke Gorge National Park.
    7. John Flynn Memorial Uniting Church John Flynn dreamed of an cathedral within Central Australia where people of all faiths could worship. After his death, his friends across Australia built one in his memory. It was opened by the Prime Minister in 1956, and its design was a result of a national architectural competition incorporating passive cooling, local and national symbolism in its design.
    8. John Flynn's Grave Historic Reserve The John Flynn's Memorial Historical Reserve, located seven kilometres west of Alice Springs, is the resting place for the ashes of the Reverend John Flynn, founder of the Flying Doctor Service and the Australian Inland Mission.
    9. Owen Springs Reserve Owen Springs Reserve, formally Owen Springs Cattle Station, opened in 2003 and is fast becoming a favourite location for four-wheel drive visitors seeking quiet bush camping without facilities. The main access track through the reserve closely follows the route of John McDouall Stuart through the MacDonnell Ranges. The Old Owen Springs Homestead (now ruins), was the first station homestead built in Central Australia.
    10. Ryan Well Historical Reserve Ryan Well Historic Reserve, located 129 kilometres North of Alice Springs, is of historic significance and illustrates an important part of the development of the Northern Territory, particularly the watering systems associated with the movement of stock along the Overland Telegraph Line.
    11. Serpentine Chalet Bush Camping Area The quiet, out of the way Serpentine Chalet Bush Camping Area, along Namatjira Drive, in the Alice Springs region, presents an opportunity for simple bush camping and the chance of several walks to visit spectacular sites along the MacDonnell Ranges.
    12. Stuart Town Cemetery The Stuart Town Cemetery is a fascinating and sobering reminder of early hardships in Central Australia. Located in Alice Springs, the Cemetery was the town’s first, dating from 1889. Seven graves are examples of the earliest pioneers who lived in the area, and over 50 people are known to be buried here.
    13. The Residency Since its construction in 1928, The Residency, situated on the corner of Parsons and Hartley Streets, Alice Springs, has become a tangible symbol of the brief Vice Regal power and independence that Central Australia once had from the Northern Territory.
    14. Tropic of Capricorn Marker The Tropic of Capricorn Marker, a Bicentennial community project, is set back 15 metres from the road, along the Stuart Highway 30 kilometres north of Alice Springs.
  • Natural Attractions (23)
    1. Birthday Waterhole Birthday Waterhole is the Trailhead for Sections 4 and 5 of the Larapinta Trail.
    2. Ellery Creek Big Hole High red cliffs, a large waterhole and a sandy creek fringed by gums make Ellery Creek Big Hole one of the most popular and picturesque picnic spots in the West MacDonnell Ranges.
    3. Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park Explore Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park, 10 kilometres east of Alice Springs. Emily and Jessie Gaps are perhaps the first noticeable features of the East MacDonnell Ranges.
    4. Ewaninga Rock Carvings Conservation Reserve Gain insight into an ancient culture as you explore the small, six hectare Ewaninga Rock Carvings Conservation Reserve, 39 kilometres south of Alice Springs. The Reserve protects rock engravings or petroglyphs, which are a valuable link to the activities of early Arrernte Aboriginal people.
    5. Glen Helen Gorge The West MacDonnell Ranges part briefly at Glen Helen Gorge, to make way for the Finke River. The ranges are of pacoota sandstone and form steep, broken ridges and it is here that the permanent Finke River waterhole is an important refuge in the hot summer months.
    6. Larapinta Trail The Larapinta Trail is an exciting long distance bush walking track through the West MacDonnell National Park in the heart of central Australia. The trail runs for 223 kilometres along the backbone of the West MacDonnell Ranges from Alice Springs to Mt Sonder. The grandeur and timeless beauty of the ranges are the backdrop and setting for the trail, which is divided into twelve sections, providing walkers with an opportunity to experience an ancient landscape at their own pace.
    7. Mac Clark (Acacia peuce) Conservation Reserve Explore the scenic Mac Clark (Acacia peuce) Conservation Reserve via Kulgera on the Stuart Highway or through Santa Teresa, and is accessable by four-wheel drive vehicle only. Acacia Peuce or Waddywood is one of the rarest and most striking trees of the Australian arid zone. It grows in this Reserve on a stony wind swept plain in one of the driest regions in Australia. The average annual rainfall is only 150 mm and daily maximum temperatures average almost 40 degrees in January.
    8. N'Dhala Gorge Nature Park N’Dhala Gorge Nature Park is located within the East MacDonnell Ranges, 90 kilometres east of Alice Springs, via the Ross Highway. Once you pass the Ross River Homestead the track becomes accessible to four-wheel drive vehicles only.
    9. Native Gap Conservation Reserve Native Gap Conservation Reserve, located 120 kilometres north of Alice Springs, is a registered Aboriginal sacred site. It also stands as a memorial to the Overland Telegraph Line which was constructed through the site.
    10. Ochre Pits The Ochre Pits, 110 kilometres west of Alice Springs, has been used for generations by the local Aboriginal people as a mine for the colourful mineral ochre. Ochre occurs in a range of earthy colours and is the raw material for paintings and ceremonial body decoration. An information shelter at the site provides information about how, why and when the Ochre Pits were used. After browsing this historic site, sit down in the scenic surrounds and enjoy a barbecue lunch.
    11. Ormiston Gorge and Pound Massive geological forces created the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge and Pound, located within the West MacDonnell National Park, 135 kilometres west of Alice Springs. Within the gorge is a permanent waterhole, estimated to be approximately 14 metres deep, which provides a refreshing finale to a day's exploring. The seven kilometre long Ormiston Pound walk is a full circuit from the visitor centre across the rocky slopes, onto the flat floor of the pound and returns along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other walks in the area contain interesting collections of regional native flora, including a number of relic plant species remaining from a tropical past. Camping and caravanning fees apply.
    12. Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve Marvel at an ancient landscape as you explore the spectacular Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve, 100 kilometres south of Alice Springs via the Stuart Highway. The main feature of the Rainbow Valley area is the scenic sandstone bluffs and cliffs.
    13. Redbank Gorge Part of the West MacDonnell National Park, the waters of deep and narrow Redbank Gorge, located 157 kilometres west of Alice Springs, are very cold all year round and are best negotiated with an airbed or similar flotation device.
    14. Ruby Gap Nature Park In 1886 Ruby Gap became the site of Central Australia's first mining rush when explorer David Lindsay found what he thought were rubies in the sandy bed of the Hale River. At the beginning of the rush European buyers were keen, but as the market was flooded, buyers questioned their quality.
    15. Serpentine Chalet Dam Serpentine Chalet Dam is the Trailhead for Sections 8 and 9 of the Larapinta Trail.
    16. Serpentine Gorge A lookout above the cliffs gives visitors a birds-eye-view of the narrow, winding Serpentine Gorge and its series of semi-permanent waterholes. The gorge is located within the MacDonnell Ranges, 100 kilometres west of Alice Springs. Its secluded location provides for a memorable walk through scenic surrounds with River Red Gums lining the well-marked walking trails that vary between 1 and 3 kilometres in length.
    17. Simpsons Gap Simpsons Gap, 18 kilometres west of Alice Springs, is one of the best known attractions in the West MacDonnell National Park.
    18. Simpsons Gap Bicycle Path The Simpsons Gap Bicycle Path is a pleasant and exciting way to enjoy the West MacDonnell National Park, cycling seven kilometres out from Alice Springs along Larapinta Drive to John Flynn's grave. The path continues, winding through open woodland for 17 kilometres to the picnic area at Simpsons Gap. This ride is suitable for all the family. Travellers should allow a full day for the return trip.
    19. Standley Chasm Midday is the best time to be standing in Standley Chasm, 50 kilometres west of Alice Springs. As the sun reaches its zenith, it shines down directly on the loose rock in this narrow cleft in the ranges and the sheer walls light up with fiery intensity. For the rest of the day the chasm is cool, shady and still impressive, surrounded by masses of vegetation including cycads, ferns and river gums. There is a pretty one kilometre trail from the car park and kiosk to the chasm.
    20. Tnorala / Gosse Bluff Conservation Reserve Also known as Gosse Bluff, Tnorala Conservation Reserve, located 175 kilometres West of Alice Springs, was created approximately 142 million years ago, when a huge comet struck Central Australia, leaving one of the largest impact craters in the world. The site is best appreciated when viewed from the air, but a good vista is still afforded from Tyler's Pass. Much of the crater has been eroded away with the original bed of the crater now 2 kilometres below the surface.
    21. Trephina Gorge Nature Park Trephina Gorge Nature Park lies in the East MacDonnell Ranges, 85 kilometres east of Alice Springs, and is notable for its sheer quartzite cliffs, Red River Gums and sandy creek bed. Trephina Gorge is one of two gorges that intersect the range. The other, John Hayes Rock Hole, is an impressive structure. The waterholes attract a wide variety of unique native wildlife, including diverse range of bird species. Once a part of the Garden Station, the nature park has strong historic links with the early settlement of Central Australia.
    22. Wallace Rockhole Wallace Rockhole is a small Aranda Aboriginal township located on the edge of the James Ranges and includes a natural drinking waterhole in the foothills of the Ranges. Rock ledges by the waterhole feature Aboriginal rock art belonging to a graphic tradition widespread in Australia. The community also has an art centre selling locally made arts and crafts and paintings.
    23. West MacDonnell National Park The West MacDonnell National Park encloses a vast and spectacular section of the MacDonnell Ranges, located west of Alice Springs. This panoramic landscape is an outstanding example of an ancient landscape sculptured over time. Each of the West MacDonnell’s chasms and gorges has its own unique character and scenery. Make use of the sealed bike path between John Flynn's Grave and Simpsons Gap or spot the Black-footed Rock Wallabies that live in the Gap's rocky ridges. Take a refreshing dip in the waterholes of Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen Gorge or Redbank Gorge. Or visit the Ochre Pits and gain insight into the ancient culture of the local Aboriginal people, who for thousands of years have used the area as a quarry for ochre, a traditional material for paint and ceremonial body decorations.
  • Parks and Gardens (1)
    1. Alice Springs Desert Park A must see for every visitor to Central Australia. The Alice Springs Desert Park, a multi-award winning park is the first of its kind in the world and showcases the plants, animals, reptiles and landscapes of Australia’s deserts and their traditional use by Aboriginal people.
  • Scenic Drives and Walks (2)
    1. Explorer's Way The Explorer’s Way bisects the Australian continent from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. It covers over 3,000 kilometres and follows the corridor blazed in the 1860s by explorer John McDouall Stuart for the ‘Overland Telegraph’ that eventually linked Melbourne to London.
    2. Red Centre Way Discover the Australian outback and the world-renowned landmarks of Uluru / Ayers Rock, Kata Tjuta / The Olgas and Watarrka National Park, Kings Canyon on a four or five day adventure drive along the Red Centre Way out of Alice Springs. Accommodation options along the route range from campgrounds to luxurious resorts.
  • Shopping (2)
    1. Camels Australia Camels Australia, located 90 kilometres south of Alice Springs, is set on nine acres of natural bushland right at the foot of the magnificent James Ranges. Say hello to one of their friendly camels, take a short ride around the enclosure or browse through the interesting assortment of souvenirs and local Aboriginal art on display in their shop. Sit back, relax and enjoy the view while enjoying a cold drink and something to eat.
    2. Lightning Ridge Opal Mines Lightning Ridge Opal Mines located in Alice Springs have been mining and cutting opal since 1962 and are passionate about sharing the beauty and history of Australia’s national gemstone - the opal. Friendly multilingual staff provide a colourful and informative demonstration, detailing the variety and diversity of the Australian opal. In the showroom view the magnificent ‘Andamooka Peacock’ – 19.5 carats of polished crystal opal and the ‘Fire Princess’ – 6.97 carats of the most vibrant array of colours ever seen in black opal.
  • Sports and Recreation Facilities (2)
    1. Alice Springs Golf Club The Alice Springs Golf Club is one of the finest desert golf courses in the world. The manicured greens contrast vividly with the surrounding desert and MacDonnell Ranges. The course itself is challenging by virtue of the narrow fairways, which means that when you land in the rough, it truly is rough. The Alice Springs Golf Club is appointed with all the facilities one would expect of a top club including a golf pro shop, motorised buggies, a fully licensed clubhouse and a restaurant.
    2. Araluen Mountain Bike Trails Araluen Mountain Bike Trails includes more than 15 kilometres of dedicated single mountain bike track and an extensive network of fire trail set amongst the West MacDonnell Ranges.
  • Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks (1)
    1. Alice Springs Reptile Centre The Alice Springs Reptile Centre is the largest reptile display in the Northern Territory.

Events

Tours

  • Full Day (11)
    1. Airport Limousines Airport Limousines offer over 40 years experience providing first class, small group, personalised and elite touring in Central Australia. Relax in style with friendly service and expert guides, touring quality locations of the area with one of the region's leading tour operators. All entry fees are included.
    2. Alice Wanderer and Centre Sightseeing Alice Wanderer and Centre Sightseeing Tours offer guided, small group tours in and around Alice Springs. The tours focus on the history and heritage of Alice Springs. The Alice Explorer Hop On – Hop Off Town Tour offers a second day free to explore Alice Springs. Their half and full day West MacDonnell Ranges tours explore the magnificent scenery of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Full day Palm Valley, Rainbow Valley Aboriginal Cultural Tour, Santa Teresa Aboriginal Community Tour and the Cattle Station Homestead Tour are also available. Alice Springs Desert Park can be combined with the Alice Explorer Town Tour or Standley Chasm.
    3. Australasian Jet Australasia Jet Alice Springs is a local aircraft charter company that offers quality scenic adventure flights over Central Australia. See the natural features of Alice Springs that make this outback town so unique, view the magnificent colours of Uluru / Ayers Rock, the burnt orange domes of Kata Tjuta / The Olgas, stunning Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park, and the spectacular 300 million year old MacDonnell Ranges.
    4. Black Tank Black Tank Outstation is an Arrernte Aboriginal Community situated approximately 80 kilometres north of Alice Springs, and the Lynch family provide authentic and detailed insights into their local Arrernte culture.
    5. DirectAir Tours (Red Centre) DirectAir Tours is a Quality Endorsed air charter company offering scenic flights to the Red Centre of Australia. You'll appreciate the vastness of the Australian outback, visiting iconic landmarks such as Uluru / Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta / The Olgas. See stunning landscapes, distinctive Aboriginal rock art, tranquil waterholes, and the opportunity to see rare desert plant and animal life. DirectAir Tours only operates twin engine aircraft in keeping with their uncompromising safety standards and their professional staff are committed to providing excellence in service.
    6. Gemtree Tours If you’ve never fossicked before, that’s not a problem. At Gemtree everything is done to make your gem fossicking experience fun, exciting and rewarding. Tagalong tours depart Gemtree daily to the surrounding gemfields during April to September but bookings are essential. With the right equipment and the local knowledge of your guide you will soon discover the excitement of finding your own gemstones. You can even have your gems cut and set by resident craftsmen.
    7. Gray Line Alice Springs Gray Line is a long established Australian owned premium sightseeing company. The Driver family have been operating since 1931 and have a fleet of over 80 vehicles and offer a comprehensive range of Northern Territory sightseeing experiences. They also have operations in Darwin, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Tasmania, Cairns, Perth, Brisbane and Gold Coast.
    8. Kings Creek Helicopters Explore the Red Centre from the air with Kings Creek Helicopters and see iconic wonders, including George Gill Range, Uluru / Ayers Rock, Kata Tjuta / The Olgas and Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park. Kings Creek helicopters hold safety briefings and provide an informative commentary, which is available on CD in four different languages.
    9. Rainbow Valley Cultural Tours Rainbow Valley Cultural Tours is where you’ll meet an Aboriginal traditional owner of the land. Learn about their culture and history and view ancient and spectacular rock art and engravings.
    10. SEIT Outback Australia SEIT Outback Australia offers exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia.
    11. Tailormade Tours Escape the hustle and bustle of big crowds and large coaches with Tailormade Tours, who specialise in personalised Red Centre touring for individuals and small groups.
  • Half Day (13)
    1. Alice Springs Central Oz Motorcycle Adventures Alice Springs Central Oz Motorcycle Adventures explore the Red Centre, including the MacDonnell Ranges and Uluru / Ayers Rock, leave on request, and are conducted at a leisurely pace in keeping with the relaxed Northern Territory lifestyle.
    2. Araluen Cultural Precinct The Araluen Cultural Precinct provides a fascinating glimpse into the art, culture and heritage of Central Australia, and into some of the local identities that helped develop the region. The precinct is also culturally significant to the local Arrernte people. There are seven registered sacred sites and trees of significance on the precinct. These are an integral component of the Two Women Dreaming Track.
    3. Ballooning Downunder This outback adventure flight starts an hour and a half before dawn, when the winds are gentle and the temperatures are low. Your Ballooning Downunder crew for the day will collect you from your accommodation and transport you to the launch site.
    4. Beanies Baskets and Bushtucker Beanies Baskets and Bushtucker offers the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Aboriginal culture as local indigenous women share their craft skills and stories. These renowned weavers and spinners will teach you how to create a mukata (beanie) and weave a tjanpi (grass) basket, and will share their fascinating stories as you sample some traditional bush tucker around a campfire.
    5. Dreamtime Tours Dreamtime Tours offer an authentic cultural experience on specially designed hands-on tours for those wanting to learn about Aboriginal culture in a natural bush setting. Providing inspirational and thought provoking cultural exchanges, the tours will engage you as you learn about bush tucker and medicines, sample distinctive bush foods, and see how the Walpiri people create their characteristic and striking artworks.
    6. Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre, located in Alice Springs, promotes ancient culture with modern technological advances, exploring the arts, music, survival, spirituality and long-term sustainability. Through their distinctive and inspirational tours, you’ll become immersed in indigenous culture, meet and dance with Aboriginal guides, go in search of bush tucker, learn how to navigate by the stars and explore the concept of spiritual perception.
    7. Foot Falcon Walking Tours Foot Falcon offers a two hour, two kilometre guided walking tour of Alice Springs with long term resident, teacher, writer and story teller, Linda Wells. Learn about Indigenous and pioneering history of the region, hear stories about the past and present and gain insights into the fascinating town as it is today, whilst discovering its natural features and historic buildings. An entertaining, personal and unique experience in The Alice.
    8. Jungala Enterprises Jungala Enterprises educational cultural experiences offer an authentic cultural experience with interaction and learning from the people of an Aboriginal community west of Alice Springs. With itineraries tailored to suit individual, charter and specialised group needs, the one to two day touring will be capped off with campfire tales and camping under the stars for a serene outback venture.
    9. Outback Airlines A scenic flight with Outback Airlines lets you truly experience the vast open spaces and rugged land formations of Central Australia, like the West MacDonnell Ranges, Standley Chasm and Simpsons. Outback Airlines is a locally owned company based in Alice Springs and specialises in small group sightseeing air tours. There’s a short 30 minute scenic flight or a longer four hour flight available, private charters can also be arranged.
    10. Outback Ballooning Outback Ballooning has been operating in Alice Springs since 1986, and is one of Australia’s largest and longest established ballooning companies. They operator everyday, weather permitting, and their fleet of large balloons carrying up to 20 passengers each, provides great booking flexibility. The reliable desert weather means they have one of the lowest cancellation rates in the world.
    11. Pyndan Camel Tracks Pyndan Camel Tracks are a family run business offering a memorable and relaxing experience with their beautiful, gentle camels. When you visit for a one hour or half day camel ride, Pyndan Camel Tracks take the time to treat you personally and tell you tales of outback life. Help feed and water the camels.
    12. Spinifex Ballooning Let Spinifex Ballooning introduce the freedom of hot air ballooning. What better way to view some of the most rugged and spectacular scenery of Australia than soaring majestically over the vast open desert plains. Australian native wildlife loves the cool early mornings, presenting great photo opportunities. The MacDonnell Ranges are a brilliant backdrop for this flight. Complementary transfers and a delicious breakfst are included.
    13. Wallace Rockhole Tourist Park Wallace Rockhole is a Western Aranda Aboriginal Community located 120 kilometres west of Alice Springs. Wallace Rockhole is on the Urana Land Trust 25 kilometres along the James Range. The community was founded by the Abbott family in 1973 as an outstation of the Hermannsburg Mission. Visitors can experience Aboriginal culture, learn about bush tucker, view ancient rock art and more.
  • Night (1)
    1. The Overlanders Steakhouse The Overlanders Steakhouse offers a unique dining experience. The historic Overlanders Steakhouse features its signature menu - The Drovers Blowout, a four course feast featuring crocodile, kangaroo, emu and camel. An A- la-carte menu, vegetarian menu and a children's menu are also available. Opened in 1971, it is a 'must see' dining establishment.

Visitor Information

  • Visitor Information Centres (2)
    1. Central Aboriginal Experiences Central Aboriginal Experiences (CAE) is the name of the Alice Springs Indigenous Tourism Hub. CAE is working with a number of Aboriginal owned businesses offering tourism products throughout the Central Australian region.
    2. Tourism Central Australia Tourism Central Australia, markets and promotes tourism growth to the Central Australian region. With the support and membership of businesses and organisations, both local and national, Tourism Central Australia are able to market this stunning region of Central Australia.
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Information

Address:

Corner Undoolya Road and Sturt Terrace

Phone:

08 8952 6749

Victoria Tasmania New South Wales Queensland Northern Territory South Australia Western Australia