Outback light fantastic
Alice Springs is a vibrant destination, from the radiance in the annual Parrtjima light festival, to the rich tones of the surrounding ranges, and glorious sunrises and sunsets
The name Alice Springs conjures up images of an isolated town surrounded by an endless, arid landscape. But beyond the iconic red dirt that inspired the nickname The Red Centre, the central Australian region offers more than you may expect.
Think refreshing swimming holes, unparalleled views of the Milky Way and a light festival that paints the famous Macdonnell Ranges.
Alice Springs, Mparntwe, is 1500km south of Darwin and 460km northeast of Uluru. Just a three-hour flight from Brisbane, the Northern Territory town sits flanked by the breathtaking East and West Macdonnell Ranges, which stretch for hundreds of kilometres.
The ancient landscape possesses great cultural significance, with the Arrernte Aboriginal people’s creation stories telling how this region was created by giant caterpillars.
The East and West Macs (as the locals call them) are spectacular shades of orange but if you’re lucky enough to visit the region after rainfall, the ranges can be dotted with vibrant shades of green.
While it would be easy to spend hours just admiring the Macs from afar, they offer a range of sites and activities to enjoy. One of these is the Standley Chasm.
Located just a short walk from the carpark, the dramatic chasm demands to be photographed with its rich colours that change depending on where the sun is sitting. To cool down, jump into Ellery Creek Big Hole, about a 40- minute drive from the Chasm. Far from a desert illusion, the swimming hole is fed by the West Macs and its sandy, shady banks offer the perfect place for a picnic.
Simpsons Gap, just 18km from Alice
Springs, is another stunning spot where resident wildlife like black-footed rockwallabies can often be spotted.
If you’re feeling adventurous, all three of these attractions can be done in one day, without a four-wheel-drive. But for a more relaxed outing, a wander around Alice is also a must.
To learn about the town’s history, join James Acklin who runs Alice Springs Walking Tours. You’ll visit a raft of local sites including the town’s original jail; the first Central Australia hospital, established by John Flynn; and the Todd River.
The Todd River is dry through much of the year – with the exception of heavy rain during the wet season – and is home to the iconic Henley-on-todd Regatta. The “boat race” attracts large crowds to the dry riverbed each August.
But if you’re in Alice in April, the annual Parrtjima light festival cannot be missed. Lighting up the 300-million-yearold Macdonnell Ranges in an array of colour and patterns.
The free event, held at the Alice Springs Desert Park and Araluen Arts Centre over 10 days, boasts several light installations that complement the local flora. While mixing new technologies with an ancient landscape, artists stay true to Country and culture, with spectacular displays everywhere you turn.
The vantage points of Alice are endless, from hiking the ranges to jumping on the back of a camel – but peacefully floating through the sky in a hot-air balloon at dawn is another unmissable option. Sunrise Outback Ballooning will give you panoramic views of the Red Centre.
Alice is a destination that begs to be explored. Just don’t forget to pack a camera.