Whilst Australia is a country well known for its clean beaches and quality surf, there’s more to the island than its much-loved coastline. For a real Oz adventure, it’s the Australian outback that holds the key.

In fact, the Australian outback, known as The Red Centre of Australia, has many a treasure to uncover and many special and spiritual spaces to experience. Here are five top spots for those looking to explore what this vast landscape and red sands have to offer:

1. Uluru

A natural and spectacular landmark, Uluru, otherwise known as Ayers Rock, is located in the southern extreme of the Northern Territory. A singular and breathtaking sandstone formation, it stands 3.6km long and an amazing 348m from land. A must-see site, especially in the glorious light of a sunset or sunrise, Ayers Rock will provide excellent photo opportunities and the chance to spot some of Australia’s unique wildlife.

 

2. Katherine Gorge

This area provides further evidence of Australia’s stunning landscape, with 13 sandstone gorges carved deep into the land by the snaking Katherine River. A popular tourist site, but yet one of the most breathtaking, the gorges provide a great day out, with the option to canoe or cruise the river when the waters and currents are right.

 

3. Litchfield National Park

Litchfield is the ideal place for bush walking and swimming with many an opportunity for camping. The waterfalls in the park are world-renowned and provide crystal clear water cascades that form a series of plunge pools. With 1,500 square km of parkland, including the wide sandstone plateau known as the Tabletop Range, this is the place to come for a safe and exciting adventure in the great outdoors.

4. The Olgas

The Olgas are situated to the west of Ayers Rock. A group of 36 domed formations nestled next to each other, weathered and etched into shape over millions of years, these rocks make a big visual statement. With Mount Olga boasting a height of 546m, climbing the rocks is not recommended. However, visitors can enjoy hiking through the grooves between the rocks or attempting the easier route on The Walpa Gorge walk.

5. Kings Canyon

One of the most visited sites of the Australian outback is the famed Kings Canyon. Part of the Watarrka National Park, the walls of this well known canyon sit at around 100 metres high. For those keen to take a hike, the Trail Walk and Rim Walk along the creek provide many breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the picturesque walks, visitors can also enjoy the Garden of Eden, which greets them with a natural spring waterhole and a range of exotic plants and wildlife.

With its bare, yet unique beauty the sights of the Australian outback are some of the most visually stunning in the world. It’s hardly surprising then that more and more visitors are going off road to explore the long developed and spiritual landscapes of this great country.

Post written by Cheapflights, where you can find the lowest prices on flights to Australia.