ANCIENT JOURNEYS
The ancient and achingly beautiful abound in Australia’s outback. But to see beyond its physical beauty to its spiritual heart requires a complete and total immersion.
he drama and beauty of the Australian outback is owed as much to the spiritual narrative that runs through it as it is to the epic landscapes that make it up. o bring the collective character of Ǯthe outbackǯ to life, you must engage with those who know its stories. tǯs a feat not easily accomplished on a solo quest into Australiaǯs heart. An nspiring ourney, however Ȃ one that takes you beyond the well-known to experience the unknown, the hidden and the sacred Ȃ is designed to let you see into the ancient soul of this great southern land. n nspiring ourneysǯ Northern erritory reaming itinerary, youǯll travel from tropical arwin to lush akadu and Litchfield National Parks, and down to Australiaǯs ed entre to explore Alice prings, the est ac onnell anges and ings anyon, ending your adventure at the magnificent rock domes of Uluru and ata uta. n ͳͲ unhurried days, youǯll see more of this beloved country than most do in their lifetimes. ut the best of this vast land is embedded within its storytellers. After exploring the verdant floodplains and lotus-covered waters of orroboree illabong, travel cross-country to one of Australiaǯs best-kept secrets. After a short, rocky climb, you will need a moment to compose yourself as you discover the beauty and wonder of unlom alls. his series of natural infinity pools allows you to relax in the crystal-clear waters as you experience incredible views over Australiaǯs largest national park, akadu. e promiseǣ this will be the highlight of your ourney. or two nights, youǯll stay in hand-picked five-star accommodation at icada Lodge. A sanctuary of calm in the heart of Nitmiluk National Park, icada is a retreat in the truest sense of the word. n each of the ͳͺ guest suites, full-length doors open onto a private balcony overlooking a native garden of wattle, bottlebrush and banksias, where the only sound is the rustling of agile wallabies and the raucous call of the black cockatoo. ndigenous artworks from local artists decorate icadaǯs dining and reception areas, as well as its rooms, and the overall architecture ȋeven the outdoor poolȌ is a genuflection to the outback aesthetic. ocktails and canapes happen every evening, and nspiring ourneysǯ guests are invited to enoy the seasonal Ǯchefǯs menuǯ, where youǯll need a food lexicon to decipher the list of native ingredients on offer. hese include salmon gum, a gentle flavour used for smoking; local river mint, used to make sorbet; quandong glazes that are both sweet and savoury; and wattle seed, which is used as a crumb for the dessert panna cotta.
The Cicada Lodge experience is also included on day three of the Kakadu's Ancient Secrets itinerary. Be welcomed on day four at Katherine Gorge by award-winning Aboriginal artist Manuel Pamkal. Brought up in the bush near the King River, Pamkal is a passionate teacher and storyteller ready to share his beloved childhood memories with you. Manual will teach you the practices of an ancient art form, known as rarrk painting. Using pigments foraged from the land, such as white clay (bim) and red ochre (marnarr), you'll create your very own masterpiece to take home. Pamkal works hard to keep this traditional art form alive, inspiring younger generations in his community. After two days spent exploring Alice Springs and the West MacDonnell Ranges, another special experience awaits on day significance of 'the outback' to the Indigenous Australians who first lived here and the resounding impact such a place can have on those of us lucky enough to experience it. Under a Desert Moon is also included on day two of the Outback Australia: The Colour of Red itinerary.
Why choose Inspiring Journeys?
Inspiring Journeys invites travellers to venture off the beaten track and down roads less travelled through immersive experiences in a small group setting. Discover ancient cultures and rugged destinations with the guiding hand of an expert, who will help truly connect you to your destination.
"Kah-mon nalah-bon nidjarra (Its good you come here)'. —Manuel Pamkal