Australia’s Red Centre is a place of endless horizons and stories written in the landscape. From Uluru, where the sandstone giant glows in fiery hues at sunrise and sunset, radiating ancient energy. After a final glimpse of the rock, we hit the open road, heading eastward to Curtin Springs.
Curtin Springs is a quintessential outback stop, a family-run cattle station and roadhouse. Here, we refueled, enjoyed a hearty lunch, and marveled at the raw beauty of Mount Conner—often mistaken for Uluru itself. It’s a great reminder that the desert holds secrets beyond its famous landmarks.
The drive to Alice Springs is pure outback magic. The highway cuts through a rugged landscape dotted with red sand dunes, spinifex grass, and ghostly white gums. Alice, the heart of the Outback, welcomed us with its unique blend of art, culture, and a thriving town vibe. It’s the perfect place to regroup, resupply, as long as you know to avoid the days the bottle shops are closed, and explore its rich Indigenous heritage.
From Alice Springs, the Stuart Highway stretches south like a ribbon of opportunity. The journey to Coober Pedy is long, but the changing scenery keeps your attention. Arid plains give way to low ranges, and the sky feels infinite.