Flinders Ranges Farm Stays
Your accommodation plans should include at least a few nights at a farm or station stay. It’s a great way to get a feel for local life, and the Flinders Ranges has a unique farm stay for every type of traveller; choose from heritage stations, romantic cabins or family-friendly cottages on stunning rural properties.
Aussie Travel Code Tip: Keep an eye out for wildlife and grazing stock in rural areas, especially during the early morning and late afternoon.
Step Back in Time With a Historic Station Stay
The history you hear during your station stay will really paint a picture of the South Australian character; a mix of innovation, country charm, and the thoughtful caretaking of wild and beautiful landscapes across the Flinders Ranges.
In the Northern Flinders Ranges, Holowiliena Station is a picturesque Merino sheep station near Cradock. Established in 1852, the sixth generation of the same family continues to manage the property today. On top of the daily business of sheep farming, Holowiliena Station offers a choice of accommodation in a curated antique-filled cottage, the comfortably renovated Shearer’s Quarters, or relaxed bush camping sites. Take the Holowiliena History Tour for an opportunity to explore the farm, hear about the property’s fascinating history and see the Outback Blacksmith at work.
Just a few hours north of Cradock, Alpana Station can also take you back in time with their popular Alpana Station Tours. This guided 4WD tour will take you through exclusive tracks that aren’t open to the general public. Your hosts will show you plenty of local secrets including an original pine and pug cottage, 630 million-year-old fossils, and stunning views of ancient landscapes from the Bald Range Look Out. Alpana Station itself offers accommodation in their Shearer’s Quarters and the unique Nungawurtina Hut, a quaint cottage built in 2002 in the traditional pine and pug style.
For a combination of adventure and heritage charm, head to Catninga Station for a few nights in their vintage railway carriage B&B. From the Catninga Homestead you can hike the Peter Goode Gully Walk to connect to the Heysen Trail. Camp under the stars or book a stay at the Catninga Hut, a rustic mountain hut located right on the Heysen Trail.
Retreat to a Peaceful Country Property
Pour a glass of wine and relax into the calming rhythm of farm life with a secluded retreat on these beautiful sprawling properties.
For a peaceful retreat, Flinders Bush Retreats is just a short drive from Hawker. Soak up the tranquil country charm of The Mt Scott Homestead. This early-1900s stone house is spacious enough for a family and romantic enough for a couple to enjoy for a long weekend away. The 100-year-old homestead has been beautifully renovated to offer plenty of modern comforts while preserving all of the heritage charm. Surrounded by tranquil bushland, this family-owned station also offers glamping in a gorgeous Eco Tent, a 4-bedroom guest house and several bush camping sites in remote locations across the property.
Heading south we’ll find Horseshoe Top End, a working sheep station located between Orrorroo, Hawker and Quorn in the Horseshoe Ranges. This picturesque farmstay is located on a sprawling landscape scattered with old stone ruins from the farm’s early days. Settle in for a few nights in the comfortable homestead accommodation, or book a relaxed stay in one of their private, dog-friendly campsites. Either way, you’ll love being able to light up the campfire, sit back with a glass of Southern Flinders wine and take in the remarkable view of the surrounding Horseshoe Ranges.
Station Stays For Adventurous Travellers
Prefer to fill your days with activity? Explore the great outdoors on a range of station experiences, from heli-tours over breathtaking mountain ranges to self-guided 4WD adventures on private tracks.
SkyTrek Willow Springs offers peaceful, private accommodation on their scenic 70,000 acre station overlooking the Flinders Ranges. Choose from a range of self-contained accommodation options including tranquil bush campsites, the pet-friendly Jillaroo Hut or the budget-friendly Shearer’s Quarters. Smaller families or couples will enjoy the beautifully appointed Stockman’s Lodge. This comfortable 2-bedroom house boasts a full kitchen, every mod-con you could need, and a spacious balcony with a breathtaking view. SkyTrek is home to one of the best 4WD tracks in the Flinders Ranges; an incredible journey through the working sheep station, diverse bushland, natural water holes and awe-inspiring mountain-top views of the surrounding region.
Rawnsley Park Station is in the same region around the Northern Flinders, located very close to Ikara Wilpena Pound. Rawnsley Park accommodation offers a combination of adventure, history and outback luxury. Stay in the elegantly renovated Rawnsley Homestead, a luxury eco-villa, or have an unforgettable adventure on their Heli-camping Experience. Take in the astonishing natural beauty of this historic station with guided walking tours, 4WD tracks, scenic flights and mountain biking trails.
If you're looking for more exciting trails for your bikes, boots and 4WDs, you will also have a blast at Bendleby Ranges and Almerta Station.
Aussie Travel Code Tip: Many Stations, such as Bendleby Ranges and SkyTrek Willow Springs, offer training sessions to help build your 4WD skills. Stay safe and enjoy the ride.
