By Jeanette L. Gibbs
Something everyone should do at least once in their lifetime, especially if they're city dwellers, is to take the trek to Australia's outback. Never before will you have seen such open endless country boasting vibrantly rich, intense colours and sheer wild beauty. And when the sun goes down and the stars come out, there's simply millions of 'em against a sky that's as black as black can be.
Australia's outback has a spiritual feel to it, an undeniable energy that recharges and replenishes your very soul. If you're ready to give it a go and discover what an adventure beyond the black stump can do for you, there's a heap of options just waiting to tempt you.
Remote, rural working properties have opened their doors to tourists, so for a while you can experience first-hand these cattle and sheep stations, some the size of a small state.
Voyages El Questro, North WA
Sprawling over a million spectacular acres, yep! A 'million acres' Voyages El Questro offers a range of experiences that matches the kaleidoscopic variety of landscapes, flowing with rivers, gashed with livid red gorges and rumpled with mountains so numerous, not all of them have names.
Voyages El Questro encompasses so much of what the Kimberley is about, it has become synonymous with it, injecting a sense of style and comfort without ever trying to shake off that sense of remote wilderness.
Website: www.elquestro.com.au
Voyages Wrotham Park Lodge, North Qld
It's located on a spectacular site high above the banks of the Mitchell River. This premium outback station of 600 000 hectares combines the rich heritage of Australia's rural history and classic outback cattle station life with a premium resort experience.
Providing an unparalleled outback experience that brings together wilderness, wildlife and a hint of luxury, guests can immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of vast landscapes and engage in activities that showcase legendary outback life and the experiences of outback stockman.
Website: www.wrothampark.com.au
Burrawang West Station Retreat, NSW
Legendary Burrawang West Station stretches across 12 000 acres of Lachlan River country in Central NSW. This fully operational station produces some of Australia's finest quality beef and is home to the premium brand, Burrawang Beef.
Nestled within Burrawang's rich pastures is the magnificent country estate offering adventuresome, yet discerning guests, an opportunity to experience outback Australia in complete style and luxury. With its quintessential Australian homestead, luxurious individual boutique lodges and creative fine-dining, Burrawang West Station Retreat offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
Website: www.burrawangwest.com.au
Bullo River, NT
Encircled by the coffee-coloured waters of the Victoria River and rugged hills inscribed with Aboriginal rock art, this vast property is not only home to around 9000 Brahman-cross cattle but also a stunning variety of local fauna species including wallabies, dingoes, wild buffalo, a myriad of native and migratory birds, fish and the omnipresent crocodile.
The 'Boab' is Bullo's symbol and these proud trees dot the entire property lending their stature to what is already an impressive landscape.
Stranraer Homestead Bed and Breakfast, Kangaroo Island. SA
Set on 1290 hectares of working property, producing prime lamb, wool and grain. While Stranraer Homestead offers a country experience with peace and tranquillity, the homestead's central location on the island makes it convenient for exploring local highlights. Adding to its beauty, the property has two large, bird-filled lagoons, beautiful scenery and natural wildlife. Relax in one of the four guest rooms, which have cosy fireplaces, and indulge in gourmet meals served in the elegant dining room.
Website: www.stranraer.com.au
Rawnsley Park Station, SA
Watch the sky turn a brilliant red as it sets over Wilpena Pound, be inspired by a landscape that has captivated poets and painters for generations, marvel at Australian native wildlife and flora in its natural habitat or discover a land that's rich in Aboriginal culture. Rawnsley Park Station provides the perfect base for exploring the Flinders Ranges. Accommodation includes luxury eco-villas, holiday units, a caravan park and some of the best campsites you'll find in the Flinders Ranges.
Website: www.rawnsleypark.com.au
Tolarno Station, NSW
Australia's outback history is epitomised by Tolarno Station. Here tourists are welcome to step back into the 1860s to see the homestead in which Bourke and Wills stayed on their trek to inland Australia. The property once boasted three hotels, a school and a jail. Excellent fishing is also possible along the 33 kilometre frontage of the Darling River, with the main species being caught are perch, yellow-belly and Murray cod (a fishing licence is required in New South Wales.)
Website: www.tolarnostation.com.au
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