We visited Alice Springs as part of a road trip from Perth to Alice and back. Alice Springs is the closest town to Uluru (Ayres Rock), so it is usually where most tourists will fly into. It is the third largest town in the Northern Territories and, considering that we hadn’t been through any big towns since the start of our trip at this point, was a very welcome stop to fill up on much needed food supplies. Apart from visiting Uluru, Alice Springs is an excellent point to visit many other stunning sites in the centre including the MacDonnell Ranges and Rainbow Valley. Also be sure to drive up Anzac Hill for 360 degree views across Alice Springs and beyond.
Olive Pink Botanic Garden is located in the centre of Alice Springs. It is land that was developed as a reserve for arid region flora by Miss Olive Pink in the 1950s. It is not only home to over 600 Central Australian plants, 145 of these occur naturally within the rocky hill and river plain habitat and 40 are rare or threatened species. It is home to Tharrarltneme, a sacred site important to the Arrernte people. The Bean Tree Cafe is located right off the main carpark and serves drinks and good food. Apart from being served in a beautiful ceramic mug, there was nothing particularly memorable about this hot chocolate. Western Bowerbirds and Black footed Rock Wallabies keep you company as you dine: not great for the animals and the cafe, but great for us as visitors to see them in action! The cafe is open 8am-3pm Wednesdays to Sunday.
