I spent a day at Alice Springs before embarking on my journey to Uluru. With less than 24 hours, I did not have the luxury to explore all that Alice has to offer, but I did manage to cover most of the city centre and spent a few hours reading at the top of Anzac Hill before watching the sun set over the town.
Quick facts:
- Located within the Northern Territory and is the second largest population centre (approx. 28,000) after the NT’s capital, Darwin
- It is the capital of the Australian outback
- It takes approximately 5-6 hours to drive from Alice Springs to Uluru
Date visited: September 2015
View of Alice Springs leading up to Heavitree Gap
Tips:
- Upon entering the town from the airport, turn around and look at the Heavitree Gap (see photos above), which marks the entrance into Alice
- Have lunch at The Watertank Cafe, a quirky cafe with great food and coffee and a lovely ambience to match. A little out of the way but I reckon it is one of the best places to relax and have a good meal in Alice Springs.
- Make a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park!
- Head up to Anzac Hill (a.k.a.Untyeyetweleye in Arrernte) an hour before sunset to read about Australia’s involvement in World War 1, take in the panoramic view of the city and snag up a spot on the hill to watch the sun set over Alice.
- Heading to Uluru? Read about things to do in the outback here.
- Spending more time in Alice? Read about more things to do here.
Where I stayed: Haven Backpackers Resort. Decent and valuable for a short stay, 15 minute stroll into city centre.
