Explorer’s Way – Adelaide to Darwin

From Adelaide to Darwin, the 3,016km “Explorer’s Way” is recognised as one of the world’s greatest long distance, transcontinental drives, crossing Australia from coast to coast, south to north.

Following the Stuart Highway, this route offers visitors many authentic Australian highlights ranging from the Clare Valley vineyards through to the ancient wilderness landscapes of Wilpena Pound and the Flinders Ranges, the underground opal mining of Coober Pedy, Uluru/Ayers Rock, Katherine Gorge and World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park.

In order to make this remarkable journey an accessible reality for anyone wanting to explore the rich heritage and varied landscapes found along the way, South Australia and the Northern Territory have together produced a detailed map which contains a collection of suggested itineraries, traveller’s information and tips on Outback driving.

En route, drivers will uncover an Explorer’s Way signage network which provides information about past explorers, Outback characters and interesting destinations. There are also ample opportunities for sightseeing with regular rest stops and a great network of pubs!

The 14-day itineraries (one northbound, one southbound) cover the major sights.

In addition, special interest options include:

• six-day Old Ghan Railway Heritage Trail from Port Augusta to Alice Springs
• four-day Aboriginal Dreaming Trails from Port Augusta to Hawker
• four-day Nature’s Way Tourist Drive from Darwin to Katherine
• four-day Pioneer’s Path Tourist Drive from Erlunda to Alice Springs

Modern-day explorers can either follow these routes or branch off to enjoy swimming in billabongs, hot springs and waterholes, fossick for gold or noodle for opals, cycle, horse and camel trek, fish or canoe.

Key South Australian highlights include:

• The Clare Valley, a premium wine region, just 1.5 hours from Adelaide
• The Pichi Richi Pass which can be navigated using the Pichi Richi Railway
• Wilpena Pound and the Flinders Ranges – a national park with excellent trails for walkers and cyclists
• Arkaroola, a private wilderness sanctuary and world class star gazing site in the Gammon Ranges
• Iga Warta, an Aboriginal-owned and managed environmental and cultural centre
• Coward Springs wetlands and the Oodnadatta Track
• William Creek, the world’s most isolated pub offering great feral foods
• Coober Pedy, an underground town and the world’s opal capital
• The Painted Desert – needs to be seen to be believed

For further information visit Southaustralia.com.