Blinman
You will find historic Blinman in the central Flinders Ranges. This rural and remote town is the highest town in South Australia. Gaining its name from when Copper was discovered by a shepherd named Robert Blinman in 1859, it is packed with history. At its peak, the population of Blinman was over 1500, but today is less than 50.
Whilst you're in Blinman, you will have plenty of time for bushwalking, 4wding, and exploring the old copper mine and historic buildings. There may not be a lot happening in this tiny town, but the beauty that surrounds you at all times will make up for that in spades.
Interested in Blinmans Copper history? The ruins of the Blinman mine are set against a stunning backdrop of hilly countryside. The Blinman Mine experience will take you back to the 1880s when hauling copper to the smelter on the surface was a daily exercise. Tours run regularly, with seasonal changes.
You can also see the 'Big Kibble Bucket', a 2.5-metre copper structure by Adelaide artist Leanne Hamilton, featuring recycled copper items from the Blinman mining area. Bet you didn't expect to tick off another "big item" did you?
Looking for where to stay? You can't go past Alpana Station. A working Merino sheep property that offers a range of quality accommodations from camping and unpowered sites to en-suite powered sites, independent powered sites to self-contained shearers quarters and bush retreat hut. No trip to Blinman is complete without visiting the North Blinman Hotel, lovingly referred to as the pub in the scrub, for a delicious feed and cold drink!
Whilst you're in Blinman, on Parachilna Gorge Road, Wadna proudly showcases Adnyamathanha art including hand-carved artefacts, jewellery and painting. Book a tour of Parachilna Gorge or Dingly Dell. Explore the peaceful Chambers Gorge for a chance to see Aboriginal petroglyphs.
At Blinman, you can travel north to Wirrealpa Station, Chambers Gorge, Wearing Gorge and the Stirrup Iron Range to Yunta Road. Or travel onto Arkaroola via this route, but the road conditions can vary, so most travellers to Arkaroola do so via Leigh Creek and Copley.
