Outback adventures
Five exciting ways to experience a staggering natural environment
LUXURY THAT ROCKS
This year, Uluru’s top resort Longitude 131 (pictured) got a multimillion-dollar facelift, in time for the 30th anniversary of Bruce Chatwin’s The Songlines. There’s a brand-new spa inspired by the Anangu people and a sexy new dune-top bar immersed in the desert landscape. The Dune Pavilion uber-suite costs from NZ$2570pp, per night, all inclusive. longitude131.com.au
PENINSULAR PERFECTION
The Cobourg Peninsula is a coastal wilderness northeast of Arnhem Land replete with marine turtles, manta rays, dolphins, sharks and crocodiles. Last year, eight new permanent tents were installed at the Cobourg Coastal Camp, which means from April to mid-November it’s the perfect jump-off point to explore deserted beaches and the ruins of Victoria Settlement, a third failed British attempt to settle Northern Australia in the 19th century.
A five-day Kakadu, Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Tour with Venture North costs $3500pp. venturenorth.com.au
KING OF GLAMPING
To enjoy luxe life on a working camel station, Kings Creek Station near Kings Canyon has three new permanent tents with escarpment views and king-size beds. Each tent has its own deck with outdoor bathroom. Guests can try quad bikes, heli and camel rides, and camel burgers. $1010 per night including food and drink. kingscreek-station.com.au ULURU ON THE BUSES
Surreally, a double-decker bus is now taking people around the base of Uluru. A five-hour tour costs $266pp, including food. Private hire prices on request. ulurufork-andview.com.au
LIGHTING UP THE DESERT
In 2016, British artist Bruce Munro, best known for immersive light-based installations, created his largest, most remote work at the foot of Uluru. As darkness arrives, 50,000 stems topped with glass spheres cast their undulating solarpowered light over an area totalling four football pitches. From $40pp. The installation will be in place until December 31, 2020. ayersrockresort.com/au/fieldoflight