Australia
Arkaba, Flinders Ranges
Nestled in the heart of one of Australia’s most ancient landscapes, Arkaba offers up wild bush luxury on 60,000 acres of serene and peaceful landscape: this couldn’t be further from the rush of city life. You’ll get a real taste of Australian country hospitality while you stay in one of the four bedrooms in the 1850s homestead, or in the garden cottage. Wake up every morning to pink sunrises and the chatter of Galahs by Arkaba Creek before heading out on a bushwalk in an authentic Aussie experience which we know you’ll love.
Location
The Flinders Ranges is one of Australia’s oldest landscapes, shaped over millions of years into what is now one of the most beautiful parts of the country. Sandstone bluffs and dry creek beds lined with River Red Gum trees make a quintessential outback picture. No camera can capture this the way it should be (trust us, we’ve tried), so you’ll have to come and see it with your own eyes. A few hours north of Adelaide, Arkaba is definitely in the bush, but don’t worry, this is certainly not what we call ‘roughing it.’ In fact, it’s the exact opposite.
Your room
The Arkaba Homestead is an earthy 19th-century building with thick stone walls, corrugated roofing and big, shady verandas. Four traditional bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, really make you feel like a house guest, not just another tourist. In the garden is the Coachman’s Cottage: a private retreat to completely hide away from the world. With no phones, televisions, or other modern distractions, you’ll have plenty of time to properly soak up this experience in traditional Australian style.
Why we like it
We love the quiet, pastoral atmosphere of Arkaba. It’s the ideal place to get in touch with the outback roots you never knew you had as you try your hand at everything from a 4WD safari and mountain biking to wildlife viewing. So, sink into your leather armchair by the fireplace in the library or soak in the pool by the creek before you dine on the terrace overlooking the ranges. The chef here cooks up delicious traditional station cuisine updated with modern and native twists daily. And to top it off, you can head down to the cellar to pick out your choice of premium South Australian wines. Countryside bliss.