Melrose
Cradled at the base of impressive Mount Remarkable, Melrose attracts bushwalkers, cyclists, birdwatchers and history buffs. Established in the 1840s, it is the oldest town in the Flinders Ranges. Immerse yourself in the heritage of this town and take a stroll around Melrose Heritage Walk, exploring the historic buildings and landmark.
Melrose is mountain-bike central, with kilometres of single-track trails in the foothills of Mount Remarkable National Park. Here, you can experience single mountain-bike tracks, walks and camping. Pick up a map, hire a bike and browse through all things mountain bike that you may find useful at Over the Edge bike store. An event not to be missed is the Fat Tyre Festival, an annual celebration of off-road, two-wheeled cycling fun.
Spend time at the Melrose Courthouse Heritage Centre, and learn about the early judiciary, police and pioneers of the region, as well as the legends and stories of the Nukunu people – the Traditional Owners of this area – at the interpretive centre.
Foodies unite in Melrose as you have a few beautiful options to choose from. Taste local Southern Flinders Ranges wines at Bartagunya Winery, the North Star and Mount Remarkable hotels, or grab a bite to eat at any of the local cafés. This is one stop on your Flinders Ranges itinerary that will have you getting plenty of creature comforts coming your way.
At Mount Remarkable National Park, walking trails range from one to five hours and include parts of the Heysen Trail that pass through Melrose to the summit of Mount Remarkable (960 metres). One of the complete sections of the Southern Flinders Rail Trail, the 22-kilometre Melrose to Wilmington Rail Trail, is great for families and tours, with gentle undulating and scenic landscapes.
Accommodation in Melrose range from a Caravan Park to boutique B&B's, so you'll find the perfect place to rest your head.
