Often called Australia’s spiritual heart, the Red Centre is where the country’s most famous geological landmark − Ayers Rock − is located. Mountain ranges, desert plains and gorges are just some of the other natural formations you’ll come across here.
The region also encompasses Alice Springs, Kata Tjuta National Park and Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park.
If you’re wondering why red seems to be the colour all around, the oxidized iron in the soil gives the area its distinctive reddish glow.
Red Centre is also home to the Arrernte aboriginal people, who have resided here for thousands of years.
Attractions
A road trip between Alice Springs and Uluru is definitely the best way to explore this rugged region.
Of course, you can’t miss a stop at Ayers Rock. Standing 348 metres above ground, this majestic monolith is a national icon and filled with immense cultural significance for the Anangu people − the land’s traditional owners.
The Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges is another must-do, as well as swimming in the gorges of Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge.
In the north-east, Kings Canyon beckons. A trek to its rim rewards you with views of Watarrka National Park’s bluffs and gorges.
Stay
Offering comfort and convenience, the Aboriginal-owned Ayers Rock Resort encompasses numerous hotels, restaurants, tours and activities for guests.
Some options are Outback Pioneer Hotel, Sails in the Desert Hotel, Desert Gardens Hotel and the Emu Walk Apartments.
Nearer to Watarrka National Park, Kings Canyon Resort features motel-style rooms and caravan/ camping sites.
Hoping to sleep under the stars but with modem comforts? Squeaky Windmill in the West MacDonnell Ranges is all about luxury eco-tents, evening campfires and killer scenery. Longitude 131° over at Uluru also includes luxe safari-style tents and even a morning camel tour.
Dine
Fancy an outdoor dinner served on a sand dune? Sounds of Silence is a group-dining tour where you get to enjoy sunset views of either Uluru or Kata Tjuta, as well as transport from your Yulara accommodation.
At Ayers Rock Resort, Tali Wiru features an outdoor four-course dinner made from the finest native ingredients, accompanied by fine Australian wine.
A homelier dining experience would be Bough House, a country-style eatery overlooking Outback Pioneer and Lodge’s pool. The hotel is also home to Pioneer BBQ and Bar, offering a quintessential Aussie BBQ.
