A unique glimpse of Australia's geographical and cultural past
Towering at almost 350 metres high and stretching nearly four kilometres across the desert landscape, Uluṟu / Ayers Rock is one of the most recognised and revered sites in Australia. A beauty spot on the face of the Northern Territory's Red Centre, Uluṟu / Ayers Rock really does have to be seen to fully appreciate its splendour. The Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa region is ideal for a weekend holiday with many half day, whole day and overnight tours, often run by the traditional custodians of the land, the Aṉangu people, giving insight to the deep connection they share with the land.
Uluṟu / Ayers Rock is very accessible from Australia's capital cities with flights arriving in and departing from Yulara – the main service town for the region where the Ayers Rock Resort is located. Whether you are the backpacking and roughing-it in under the stars type or a newlywed looking to celebrate your honeymoon in ultimate luxury, the Ayers Rock Resort truly does have accommodation options to suit everyone. Finish off your weekend in the outback with a therapeutic treatment at the Red Ochre Spa, enjoy a gourmet barbecue at the Sounds of Silence dining experience or spend a night in the exclusive 5-star eco-resort, Longitude 131.
Yulara is also the base for most tour pick-ups and drop-offs. The biggest attraction is undoubtedly Uluṟu / Ayers Rock, particularly at sunrise and sunset when it changes colour, each shade more breathtaking than the last. Put on your comfortable walking shoes and make the journey around the base or go even further with a lengthy walk through the Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuṯa (The Olgas) 40 kilometres out. There are a number of walking trails of varying difficulty where you can see the group of ochre domes at the extraordinary Heritage Listed site – an experience every Australian traveller should have on their bucket list.