Central Australia is magical, just ask the tourists, backpackers or Grey Nomads. And ask the locals; the Arrernte people whose cultural heritage is rooted in the land; the residents who were born and raised in Alice Springs; or others still, who moved to Alice Springs for work (people will often say they’re staying for “no more than two years” which then became three years, four, then a decade or more).
Alice Springs is home. I like to brag about the town as one would their new guitar, surfboard or engagement ring. There’s a beauty to the place that can’t be described on a Tourism NT Instagram Page. Little random charms, cheap eats, pretty spots… Here’s a sunrise to sunset guide by people from Alice Springs. I have compiled a list of recommendations from people who love Alice as much as I do, if not more. Here are some of the things we like to do, perhaps you’ll like them too.
6:00am – 8:30am:
Hike up Mt Gillen: it’s located on Larapinta Drive, next to Flynn’s Grave; this simple, sweet climb is a local staple. Depending on your pace, the hike will take anything between one to three hours (it is 11km). Take water, take a camera, take some snacks and take some friends… try to catch the sunrise and prepare yourself for the chilly morning winds. The views are incredible.
(Photo of the Ilparpa Claypans: taken by Kylie Bull)
8:30am – 9:30am:
Breakfast – Alice has aaalllll the cute cafes – most of them are within the CBD. Here are some personal favourites:
- Page 27: It’s located in a laneway off Todd Mall, they make really nice fresh juice (I recommend the ginger, mint, orange combo), they also have quirky décor and they used mason jars before it was cool #culturalcapital.
- The Goods: Also in the Todd Mall, their chai lattes are better than anyone else’s in town (not too sweet, not too creamy, a little on the spicy side)
- WatertankCafé: strangely, this café resides in the industrial suburb of Alice. Located, as the name suggests, in a huge water tank. Really kind staff, quality service, and just plain good vibes. It is a little bit pricey but their halloumi salads are excellent (16 Wilkinson St, Ciccone NT 0870).
9:30am – 12:30pm:
Ok, on a mid-morning adventure in Alice, there are options aplenty.
- If the weather’s nice (balmy, but not too hot), go to the Telegraph Station, there are beautiful trails for walking or mountain bike riding. There are also several sweet picnic spots there.
- If it’s a Sunday, go to the Todd Mall Markets. It’s a beautiful fusion of culture and community. There’s a lot of good food there too. While you’re there, say hi to Sue, a Papua New Guinean friend of mine. She sells handmadebilums (woven bags) and she’ll warm your heart with a single smile.
- Speaking of the Todd Mall, experience the walking tour that teaches you Arrernte words as you go…. Learn about the history of Mparntwe (Alice Springs) before settlement. Learn about other significant features of the town.
12:30pm – 5:00pm:
- Simpson’s Gap – there are several spots where you can picnic, camp or go swimming. Especially along the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. Simpson’s Gap is the closest (20-minute drive) and it’s accessible via a bike/walking track from town (19.4km)
- If you have a car, go to Ellery Creek Big Hole. It is 90km out of Alice Springs; a small price to pay for the beautiful drive, cool refreshing water and the sweet escape from society. Swim, sunbake and picnic your afternoon away.
5:00pm – 6:30pm:
- Trig Hill: This is myfavourite sunset spot. It is located behind the Telegraph Station, a 5-minute drive from the CBD. The hill is a short, 2-minute hike with spectacular scenery.
- Ilparpa Claypans: possibly our best-kept secret. They are 15km South East of town and the best time to visit is during the rainy season. (You would need a 4WD car for access)
Then what?
After that, you can dance the night away at Epilogue (they have rooftop gigs!), play trivia at Monty’s or camp out at Ormiston Gorge… take your pick!
Enjoy your stay!
Note:
I would personally recommend visiting Alice Springs during June or July, the winter months have balmy, adventure-friendly days – not too hot, not too cold. There’s also a smorgasbord of community festivals and events during that time of year.
Kemunto Ogendi is a University student, living on the Central Coast of Australia.