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Gilberton Outback Retreat, Gilbert River, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Australia's best outback stations and safaris

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Experience the excitement and seclusion of rural Australia with these unforgettable outback station holidays.

By Carly Spek

Tucked within 300sq km (116sq mi) of rugged natural beauty on the edge of Kakadu National Park , a stay at Bamurru Plains is nothing short of spectacular. The key attraction here is the airboat safari, which zips across the Mary River floodplains. Spot saltwater crocodiles, wild brumbies (horses) and buffalo before watching native birds take flight from The Hide viewing platform. Each luxurious lodge is curated to complement the history and environment of the area, paying homage to both Aboriginal and pastoral history.

Kings Creek Station offers a true Aussie outback experience, with beautifully rustic accommodation set on a working cattle farm 300km (186mi) from Alice Springs . Spend your days wandering the station's vast surrounds and wading in the welcome cool waters of the pool. Join a cultural tour to learn about the practices and cultures of the local Luritja and Pertame peoples, or take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight over the magnificent Central Ranges. Choose from glamping, blissfully simple bush tents, or laid-back campgrounds.

A six-hour drive from Townsville , Gilberton Outback Retreat is set in a truly unique location, boasting beautiful Aboriginal rock art, an historic gold mining town and a thriving nature reserve. Once you’ve explored the treasures at your doorstep, get hands on at the working cattle station, try your luck at fishing or unwind among the wildlife and scenery of the Gilberton Nature Reserve. In the comfort of your farm-chic retreat, enjoy hearty home cooked meals and panoramic views overlooking Gilbert River from your private deck.

Resting at the foot of picturesque Mount Mulligan, this all-inclusive luxury stay provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Embark on incredible hikes, guided tours and thrilling ATV experiences, spotting wildlife and learning about the history of the region along the way. The main pavilion and sunset bar are the perfect options for an evening cocktail, and you can swap the walk there for a ride in your private buggy. A chartered helicopter is the best way to travel to and from Mt Mulligan Lodge, with daily departures from Cairns .

Embark on a scenic five-hour road trip from Adelaide to experience ancient landscapes, prolific wildlife, incredible food and supreme comfort at Arkaba Conservancy. With capacity for just 10 guests, this exclusive experience offers intimate wildlife safaris across 60,000 private acres. The conservancy is home to thriving communities of kangaroos, emus and other native wildlife. During your stay, visit sites significant to the local Adnyamathanha people, snap photos on a helicopter flight over Wilpena Pound and indulge in fresh, local food and wine.

It's easy to see why Home Valley Station in Kununurra was chosen as the set for Baz Luhrmann's iconic film ‘Australia’. Owned by the Balanggarra Aboriginal Corporation, the property is quintessential Aussie outback at its best, with natural beauty, rich cultural history and beautiful accommodation. Choose from a host of nature activities during your stay, including walking trails, horse riding, stargazing and sunset tours. The Balanggarra Home Valley Tour will take you past waterfalls, gorges and ancient landforms as you learn about the culture of the area.

Home Valley Station

https://home-valley.com.au/

Ancient rock art, stunning waterfalls, authentic farm life and modern comfort just under three hours drive from Kununurra – there is no shortage of reasons to visit Bullo River Station. The impressive property is home to 3,000 cattle as well as wild buffalo, wallabies and dingoes. Experience a genuine outback lifestyle by getting involved in daily activities such as lick runs (cattle feeding) and muster training, or explore the landscape at your own pace. Cruise the serenity of Bullo River Gorge, embark on a fishing expedition and peer at the uninterrupted night sky through telescopes.

With rolling hills, towering elms and historic architecture, a visit to Waterloo Station is like stepping into a fairytale. Less than a four-hour drive from Byron Bay , the property has been carefully restored to retain its original homestead charm, offering luxurious lodgings from family affairs to more intimate abodes. Wander the acreage, keeping an eye out for deer and a variety of birdlife, and try your hand at sapphire fossicking, trout fishing or swimming in the creek. In winter, curl up by the fireplace with a book and enjoy the serenity.

A cruisy six-hour drive from Sydney , adventure awaits at Callubri Station. Lean into the simple pleasures of country living from your sun-filled suite before heading out on a tour of the property, spying emus, echidnas and kangaroos in your travels. Meander through the original timber woolshed, watch the action in the shearing shed and visit the residents in the livestock paddocks. Finish your day with a dip in the pool, indulge in a moon-bathing session or enjoy the tranquillity of the river lagoon on a row boat perfectly sized for two.

Exmouth may be most famous for its proximity to the magnificent Ningaloo Reef , but it is also home to rich and adventurous outback landscapes. One of the lesser-known treasures of this region is Bullara Station, a working cattle station sharing country fun in a truly dreamy location. Settle into a cottage, safari tent or campsite before diving in amongst the action. Watch the yearly mustering, taste fresh damper, get chatting around the fire or indulge in an outdoor shower beneath fragrant gums. Be sure to pull up a chair to meet some new mates over BYO (bring-your-own) happy hour.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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