Flinders Ranges, Arkaroola & Barossa Valley Escape - September 2026 - Hostess Roundup - Kaarie

We had a wonderful time on our road trip in the outback of South Australia. We loved visiting Bunguree Station, a historic merino station, still operating as a ‘mixed farm’. We admired the painted silo in Wirraburra on the way to Port Augusta. The beautiful Arid Lands Botanic Gardens was last stop of the day. We learnt a lot about how plants have adapted to survive with very little water. 

We timed it just right, coming here in late September. There had been so much rain recently with the wildflowers abundant and the hills so green. Touring Port Augusta, we found the Sturt Desert Pea in full bloom as was Patterson’s Curse, creating a vibrant purple haze on the hills. After a homestyle lunch, we made it to see AFL Kylie on TV at the pub. Lots of fun, then we boarded the Pichi Richi railway and travelled to Woolshed Flat. That night we slept in Leigh Creek, an outback town built for mining families. Very remote. 

Then to Arkaroola! Big drive on unsealed roads with stops in little towns. Staying in Arkaroola Village was a big highlight. We ventured into the mountainous sanctuary in 4WDs, an experience we’ll never forget. ‘God’s own country’ they say.

Two nights in Wilpena Pound was just the tonic! Sleeping in nature was magical, waking to the spectacular colors of the ancient hills. We saw emus and kangaroos in the wild and a multitude of birds and lizards. Our First Nations guide took us on a tour of sacred landforms and bush tucker. So good to learn the stories of her people and her personal stories.  We also learnt much about the history of the towns that developed with mining. It was a great experience going into Blinman mine with an entertaining local guide.

More fun to come with a food and wine adventure in the Barossa Valley. Big drive through country towns to Tanunda. Maggie Beer’s was a treat as always, with a talk and video of Maggie’s quest. Chateau Tanunda and magnificent Seppeltsfield superb for wine tastings and amazing lunch.
Our last day started early at the Chocolate Company tasting wine and chocolate pairings. We dropped past the Whispering Wall and tried it out. And yes, it’s true. You can whisper to the wall and your friends can hear you from afar, at the other end of the wall! Finishing in Adelaide now. Adjusting back to city life. We’ve had an amazing time and would love to go back someday.