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Desert Sky Tours

Desert Sky Tours operate day tours to Mannum and the Barossa Valley plus extended tours with camping or hotel/motel accommodation to the Simpson Desert, Innamincka, Birdsville, Red Centre, William Creek, Coober Pedy, South East and Flinders Ranges travelling in a unique six wheel drive vehicle.

Touring Options

Kangaroo Island Four Day Tour – DST09

Day One – Our tour commences at 0630 when we depart West Beach for Cape Jervis to board the Sealink ferry for our crossing to Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island, arriving in Penneshaw at approximately 0945. Situated on the north-east coast of Kangaroo Island, this Cornish style settlement is one of the more attractive towns on the island. After a look around the town, we visit the Gateway Information Centre and then take the road to Antechamber Bay and Cape Willoughby. At Windmill Bay the beach is covered with almost perfectly rounded rocks and pebbles. A look at the roaring surf as it crashes over the rocks will soon give you a clue as to their formation. Returning towards Antechamber Bay, we detour after approximately six kilometres at the sign to American River and eventually the main bitumen Penneshaw/Kingscote Road, near Brown Beach (a safe swimming beach).

. The wine industry on Kangaroo Island is small, but growing, and we have opportunity to visit one of these – Sunset Winery. Prospect Hill, (named by Captain Matthew Flinders), provides a marvellous view of Pelican Lagoon, the rolling hills, and the Southern Ocean at Pennington Bay. From a lookout on top of the hill you may be able to see Mount Lofty! One kilometre on a gravel road takes us to Pennington Bay – a wonderful surf beach. In rough weather, the southerly winds blow at gale force crashing huge waves on the shore that can be heard at American River – nine kilometres away. Muston Road takes us from Pennington Bay, past Pelican Lagoon to American River. Discovered by Matthew Flinders in 1802, the following year an American brig sailed in and during a four month stay the crew built the ‘Independence’, using local timber. It is from this event that the town received its name. We return to the main Kingscote/Penneshaw Road and travel to Kingscote for our overnight accommodation at the Wisteria Lodge Motel.

. Day Two – Departing Kingscote, we travel along the Playford Highway and Birchmore Road to the western side of the island and Flinders Chase National Park. Among the attraction we visit are Admiral’s Arch and Remarkable Rocks. Leaving Flinders Chase National Park, the South Coast Road takes us past the Kelly Hill caves to Vivonne Bay and Little Sahara, an area of spectacular white sand dunes surrounded by bush vegetation. Return to Kingscote via Elsegood Road to our overnight accommodation at the Wisteria Lodge Motel.

. Day Three – Leaving Kingscote this morning, we travel via Birchmore and coast roads to Bales Beach and Seal Bay. A guided tour along a boardwalk and onto the beach enables us to observe the sea lions lying on the sand. Our return to Kingscote is via Clifford’s Honey Farm and Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery. Overnight accommodation at the Wisteria Lodge Motel.

. Day Four – We take a scenic trip today through Reeves Point, Bay of Shoals and Emu Bay. At Snelling Beach we explore a ‘secret’ tunnel before driving up Constitution Hill to Western River Cove with a delightful beach. We return via Parndana to Kingscote. Depending on our Sealink departure time (1730 or 1930), we will have dinner at Kingscote or Cape Jervis.

. Operates:
. Departs 11 November 2005.

Twelve Apostles Five Day Tour – DST05

This five day tour is an experience in diverse scenery visiting The Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay and The Grampians.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel along the South Eastern Freeway through the Adelaide Hills to Tailem Bend and the start of an interesting drive through the Coorong, a saline lagoon more than 100 kilometres in length separated from the Southern Ocean by the sand dunes of the Younghusband Peninsula. Larry the Lobster greets us at the seaside town of Kingston, before heading inland via the Princess Highway to Millicent and Mount Gambier. Overnight Red Carpet Inn Motel, Mount Gambier.

. Day Two – Situated at the mouth of the Glenelg River and five kilometres from the South Australian Border is the town of Nelson and the picturesque Glenelg River, which flows 400 kilometres from the Grampians in the north. Pass through Portland – a town steeped in history, to Port Fairy with its charming old homes and buildings from last century, to Warrnambool – home of the Fletcher Jones Garden and Tower Hill. This is the start of the Shipwreck Coast and rugged coastline and towering cliffs are seen travelling to Port Campbell. Amazing works of nature are everywhere you look – the most famous being the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Blowhole, London Bridge and the Grotto. The road climbs to Lavers Hill and through the Otway Ranges National Park, before descending to some of the prettiest coastal villages you are likely to see anywhere – including Apollo Bay and Skenes Creek. Overnight Skenes Creek Lodge Motel, Skenes Creek.

. Day Three – After breakfast follow the Great Ocean Road for a day trip to Lorne and the stunning waters of Loutit Bay, with its wide sandy beach and rich surrounding forest completing the picture postcard look. The Angahook – Lorne State Park nearby provides an opportunity to see beautiful waterfalls, huge tree ferns and towering trees. Overnight Skenes Creek Lodge Motel, Skenes Creek.

. Day Four – Leaving Skenes Creek travel through the hinterland towns of Colac, Camperdown and Mortlake – each with a different array of attractions and variety of scenic views – to Hamilton (home of the Sir Reg Ansett Transport Museum). It is then just a short journey to the delightful pastoral town of Dunkeld, at the base of Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt. The impressive setting of this town has inspired many Australian painters. Dunkeld is acknowledged as the gateway to the Grampians National Park, drive 65 kilometres through the Park to Halls Gap – a wonderful sightseeing experience. Overnight Hi-Way Eight Motor Inn, Stawell.

. Day Five – Begin return journey to Adelaide travelling via Horsham, Dimboola, Nhill, Bordertown, Keith to Murray Bridge and the South Eastern Freeway, arriving in Adelaide at approximately 1830.

. Operates:
. On demand 0730 Day one to 1830 Day six, from central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

River Wonderland Four Day Tour – DST15

Travel in air conditioned comfort in a unique six wheel drive vehicle on this four day tour of the River Murray. Highlights include Mannum, Swan Reach, Barmera, Berri and Renmark.

. Day One – Depart West Beach at 0730 in our unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle, and take a scenic route via Tea Tree Gully and Gumeracha, where we stop for morning tea at the Big Rocking Horse. Continue through Birdwood, Tungkillo and Palmer, with a detour to the Mannum Waterfalls. After a tour around the historic Port of Mannum, we have a picnic lunch on the bank of the River Murray at the Mary Ann Reserve. The River Murray is crossed via the Ferry, and we drive along the eastern side of the River to Purnong, and Walker Flat. A little further on is Nildottie where we take the opportunity to experience a walk through Aboriginal Dreaming and Culture. This is the birthplace of the Black Duck and our guide takes us on a tour through Devon Downs Archaeological site, along boardwalks that meander up the majestic cliffs of an ancient seabed. Overnight Swan Reach Hotel.

. Day Two – After breakfast, we visit the Murray Aquaculture Centre that specialises in producing restaurant grade farmed yabbies all year around. A guided tour of the Information Centre, climate controlled hatchery and three acres of grow out ponds makes this an interesting visit. There are also over 12,000 Almond trees covering over 100 acres on the property. After a pleasant morning tea at Waikerie, we take a detour past Hart Lagoon which has an abundance of colourful bird life, and travel along Devlins Pound Road, which is reputed to be the only place along the whole course of the River Murray where cliffs are to be seen lining both sides of the River. Soon the tour takes a turn off to reach Overland Corner on the Old Coach Road. After stopping at the old Overland Hotel, which now houses a museum opened by The National Trust and a licensed facility area, we travel along the eastern shore of Lake Bonney to Barmera for lunch. There is time to explore the local attractions before continuing our journey to Berri, where we visit the Berrivale Orchards Showrooms and Theatrette, and then it is on to Renmark – the oldest settlement along the River Murray. Overnight Renmark Motel.

. Day Three – After a splendid lunch at the Renmark Hotel, we take a look at some of the local attractions, including Olivewood (the home of WB Chaffey), and take a scenic drive to Paringa, close to the border with breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery from the Paringa Lookout and Headings Cliff Lookout. Lock Five and sandbar also provides an interesting drive. Overnight Renmark Motel. Day Four – We leave Renmark at 0830 and head through Murtho Forest Landing and its stunning vista with red, gold and brown colours mirrored by the river, to Loxton. Take a trip down memory lane at the Loxton Historical Village before a picnic lunch on the River Bank. Travelling south from Loxton towards Alawoona, we quickly head into the Mallee country, and at Karoonda we are in the heart of the farming district of the Mallee. Continue through Murray Bridge and the South Eastern Freeway to Adelaide.

. Operates:
. On demand at 7300 approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

William Creek-Painted Desert Nine Day Tour – DST12

William Creek and Coober Pedy nine day tour exploring the remote outback of South Australia. This is a comfortable adventure tour that includes – Marree, the Oodnadatta Track, Lake Eyre, William Creek, Coober Pedy and Woomera. Tour explores the Mound Springs area (part of the Great Artesian Basin) see underground opal mining, tour the magnificent Breakaway country and visit Australia’s first and only rocket launching town. Tour combines the character of the outback with discovery and interest.

. Day One – You are welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned bus for departure from West Beach at 0730. We travel via Gawler and Clare Valley towns, stopping for a cup of coffee at Tarlee and lunch at Gladstone. Our journey continues on to Quorn and Hawker then through Leigh Creek to Copley, and our fist night at the Leigh Creek Hotel. Overnight Leigh Creek Hotel.

. Day Two – After breakfast, we continue north to Lyndhurst stopping at Marree for lunch. We explore this historic town at the start of the Oodnadatta and Birdsville Tracks. Passing through one of Australia’s most fascinating and diverse regions, the Oodnadatta Track closely follows a major Aboriginal trade route, the original Overland Telegraph Line and the Old Ghan railway line. We travel through the Mound Springs on the rim of the Great Artesian Basin and stop to visit Bubbler and Blanche Cup Springs. Overnight William Creek Campground Cabins.

. Day Three – After an enjoyable breakfast at William Creek, we capture the atmosphere of South Australia’s smallest town, which lies in the centre of the world’s largest cattle station Anna Creek. A little north of William Creek, we leave the Oodnadatta Track and head to the opal capital of the world – Coober Pedy. There is an opportunity for a look around the town, including a visit to The Big Winch, and underground church. For something different – our accommodation is underground. Overnight Coober Pedy Look Out Cave Motel.

. Day Four – The Breakaway Reserve provides a spectacular drive today. It consists of colourful low hills that have broken away from the Stuart Range and have been featured in many films including Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. A round trip follows the Dog Fence and Moon Plain. Overnight Coober Pedy Look Out Cave Motel.

. Day Five – Leaving Coober Pedy we travel the Oodnadatta road to Mount Barry and the Arckaringa Hills – an area of spectacularly coloured land formations featuring mesas, buttes, tent hills and cliffs caused by erosion of an ancient land surface. The colours come from pyritic sediments deposited in the soil millions of years ago. Our route takes us through Copper Hills Station to Cadney Park Homestead. Overnight Cadney Park Homestead (motel).

. Day Six – We head down the Stuart Highway to Glendambo and past Lake Hart to Pimba, where a slight deviation takes us to Woomera – the base for the Nurrungar deep-space tracking station. We visit Breen Park and the Missile Park Woomera Heritage Centre. Overnight Woomera Eldo Hotel.

. Day Seven – The interest is far from over as we take a day trip to the purpose built town of Roxby Downs and a surface tour of the nearby Olympic Dam – one of the world’s largest copper, uranium, gold and silver mining complexes. A tour of the modern township of Roxby Downs follows the mining complex tour. After lunch we visit the town of Andamooka. Overnight Woomera Eldo Hotel.

. Day Eight – We travel the Stuart Highway to Port Augusta and after a look around the town and Arid Lands Botanic Gardens we continue to Melrose – the oldest town in the Flinders Ranges, at the foot of Mount Remarkable. Overnight Mount Remarkable Hotel/Motel.

. Day Nine – Leaving Melrose, we travel home to Adelaide via Orroroo, Jamestown and Burra.

. Operates:
. On demand at 0730 approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Central Eyre, Gawler Ranges Five Day Tour – DST17

Spend five days travelling in the Central Eyre Peninsula and Gawler Ranges area of South Australia. Learn about isolated station life and travel on unsealed roads in a unique six wheel drive vehicle.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel via the northern suburbs of Port Wakefield, Snowtown and Crystal Brook to the city of Port Augusta, then join the Eyre Highway to Iron Knob. An unsealed road passes the station properties of Corunna, Siam, Mount Miccollo and Nonning, on our way to Mount Ive in the heart of the Gawler Ranges. Overnight Mount Ive Station – the Gawler Ranges Tourist Centre.

. Day Two – After breakfast, take a day trip to Lake Gairdner and to Hiltaba and Yardea, before returning to Mount Ive. Overnight Mount Ive Station – the Gawler Ranges Tourist Centre.

. Day Three – Leave Mount Ive Station and head south, passing Mount Nott and Spring Hill before arriving at Paney Station (a recently declared national park). Then heading towards the Eyre Highway, our route takes us to Pildappa Rock, Tcharkuldu Hill and Minnipa. It is then a short drive along the Highway to Wudinna, where we take time to explore Turtle Rock, Polda Rock, and Mount Wudinna. Overnight Wudinna – Gawler Ranges Motel.

. Day Four – Continue along the Eyre Highway through Kyancutta, Kimba to Whyalla and Port Augusta. There is opportunity to visit the Arid Lands Botanic Gardens in Port Augusta before continuing through Horrocks Pass to Wilmington and Melrose in the Southern Flinders Ranges. Overnight Melrose – Mount Remarkable Motel.

. Day Five – Leave Melrose and travel home to Adelaide through Orroroo and Jamestown.

. Operates:
. On demand at 0730 approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Barossa Valley Day Tour – DST01

Highlights of your day in the Barossa Valley include visit to the Whispering Wall, Lyndoch, wineries, Mengler’s Hill Lookout and Angas Park Fruits.

. Departs Adelaide at 0830. Travel scenic route via One Tree Hill and Golden Grove. Enjoy morning tea at the Whispering Wall, experience the acoustic phenomena of the retaining wall for the Barossa Reservoir. Travel on to Lyndoch. Visit Bethany Winery. Enjoy a picnic lunch at pretty Bethany Reserve. Continue up Mengler’s Hill for a magnificent view of the Barossa Valley and interpretation of Sculpture Park. Travel the back road to Angaston and Angas Park Fruits, another premium tourist attraction where glace fruits and confectionery and the best of South Australian dried fruits can be purchased. Afternoon tea at Seppeltsfield Winery. Return home by 1700 via Gawler and the Main North Road to cap a memorable day’s sightseeing.

. Operates:
. On demand 0830 to 1700, from central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Birdsville and Innamincka Nine Day Tour – DST02

See the Australian Outback aboard a unique, purpose built bus. Discover deserts and oases, small country towns, travel on the famous Birdsville and Strzelecki Tracks and visit Broken Hill.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel north through the Clare Valley towns, stopping for a cup of coffee at Tarlee. Journey continues through Leigh Creek to Copley and first night at the Leigh Creek Hotel. Overnight Leigh Creek Hotel.

. Day Two – After breakfast continue north to Lyndhurst and Marree, at the start of the Birdsville Track. Take time to explore several of the hot water bores in this gibber country before arriving at Mungerannie and stop over for the night. Overnight Mungerannie Hotel.

. Day Three – Back on the Birdsville Track, head further north to Mirra Mitta Bore an oasis of greenery and bird life. Take the outside track of the Birdsville Track around the vastness of the Goyder Lagoon and cross over the famous Koonchera Sand Dune on the Diamantina floodplain. Cross the South Australian and Queensland border and soon come upon the Birdsville Race Track, and a little further the town of Birdsville. Overnight Birdsville Hotel.

. Day Four – An opportunity to relax and experience the atmosphere of Birdsville, including a visit to the unique Birdsville Working Museum and other local attractions. Waddi Trees and Big Red Sand Dune. Overnight Birdsville Hotel.

. Day Five – Head east to Durrie then south to Cadelga and Cordillo Downs approaching through the Innamincka Regional Reserve, to the town of Innamincka. Overnight Innamincka – Cooper Creek Homestay.

. Day Six – Today is spent exploring this historic Burke and Wills area. Visit Camp LXV, the Dig Tree, Kings Marker and Burke’s Memorial on the banks of the Mulkonbar Waterhole. Enjoy a cruise on the Cooper Creek to view the abundant wildlife. The Elizabeth Symons Nursing Home (built in 1929) has been restored as an Interpretive Centre for the area. Overnight Innamincka – Cooper Creek Homestay.

. Day Seven – Head south along the Strzelecki Track to Merty Merty Junction. At this point head east to Cameron Corner, which is the border of South Australia and New South Wales. A little further along, come upon Fort Grey in the Sturt National Park and then its another 109 kilometres to Tibooburra. Overnight Tibooburra Hotel.

. Day Eight – Travel the Silver City Highway through Milparinka (Depot Glen), Packsaddle and Fowlers Gap to Broken Hill, arriving mid afternoon. There is an opportunity for sightseeing around the city of Broken Hill and nearby Silverton. Overnight Silver Haven Motel.

. Day Nine – Depart Broken Hill, travelling home to Adelaide on the Barrier Highway through Peterborough, Burra and Gawler.

. Operates:
. On demand at 0730 approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Warburton River Five Day Tour – DST16

Enjoy a five day tour of the Warburton River. Highlights include Tarlee, Gladstone, Quorn, Hawker and the famous Birdsville Track.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel via Gawler and the Clare Valley towns, stopping for a cup of coffee at Tarlee and lunch at Gladstone. Journey continues to Quorn and Hawker then past Leigh Creek to Copley. Overnight Copley Caravan Park or Leigh Creek Hotel.

. Day Two – After breakfast continue north to Lyndhurst, stopping at Marree for lunch. At Marree there is an opportunity for a scenic air flight over Lake Eyre before travelling the famous Birdsville Track past Lake Harry (now filled with water), Clayton, Dulkaninna, Etadunna to Mungerannie. Overnight Mungerannie Camping Ground or Hotel.

. Day Three – Heading north west see Cowarie Station and a little later Kalamurina Station, which almost disappeared in the floods of 1974. Here meet the Warburton River, continuing on for a short distance to Stony Creek Crossing for a picnic lunch, enjoying the company of black swans, pelicans, corellas and other wildlife in this normally arid area. Overnight Mungerannie Camp Ground or Hotel.

. Day Four – Bidding farewell to our hosts John and Genevieve at Mungerannie, travel down the Birdsville Track to Marree with time to inspect Farina Ruins and the Ochre Pits before returning to the sealed road at Lyndhurst and Copley. Overnight Copley Caravan Park or Leigh Creek Hotel.

. Day Five – Leaving Copley, travel through Hawker and Quorn to the Pichi Richi Pass and Stirling North, meeting National Highway One near Port Augusta, continue on to Adelaide arriving at approximately 1830.

. Operates:
. On demand 0830 Day one to 1830 Day five approximately, from central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

McLaren Vale Day Tour – DST08

Enjoy picturesque coastal scenery and winery visits as part of of your day tour to the McLaren Vale, centre of Adelaide’s southern wine producing district. A picturesque journey following the coastline through Christies Beach and Port Noarlunga to Moana. Enjoy a short drive on the beach before journeying further south to Port Willunga. Heading inland, travel through the historic towns of Aldinga and Willunga to the beautiful McLaren Vale – heart of Adelaide’s southern wine producing district. Picnic lunch is at McLaren Vale and there is an opportunity to visit a winery. Continue towards the Adelaide Hills, passing through Kangarilla, Meadows and Echunga, arriving at the popular German township of Hahndorf. Return to Adelaide via the Southern Freeway.

. Operates:
. On demand 0830 to 1730 approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Broken Hill and Outback Eight Day Tour – DST03

Broken Hill and Outback eight day tour travelling through the northern towns of Tarlee, Saddleworth and Burra to Peterborough, and then continuing along the Barrier Highway to Yunta, Olary and Broken Hill.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0800. Travel through the northern towns of Tarlee, Saddleworth and Burra to Peterborough, then continue on the Barrier Highway to Yunta, Olary and Broken Hill. Picnic lunch is provided. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Two – After breakfast enjoy a heritage tour of the City of Broken Hill, visiting the Delprat Mine, railway museum and art galleries. Sightseeing includes the city centre, golf course and Royal Flying Doctor Base. Lunch is provided. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Three – A day of discovery visiting Kinchega National Park and the Menindee Lakes area. This is a waterbird haven. Watch the spectacular sunset over the lakes. Picnic lunch is provided. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Four – Silverton, once a thriving community with a population of more than 3,000 has become a Mecca for the film industry. For a supposed ghost town, Silverton has a lot to offer. Spend a full day visiting Australia’s liveliest ghost town, Umberumberka Reservoir and Daydream Mine. A picnic lunch is provided. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Five – A day at Mootwingee National Park, including a tour of the Mootwingee Historic Site with an experienced guide. A system of walking trails, catering for visitors of different abilities is available. This is a place of considerable appeal for lovers of wild country. A picnic lunch is provided. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Six – The Broken Hill Sculpture Symposium was held in 1993 and has left the City one of its most spectacular tourist attractions. This morning venture into the Living Desert and soak up the atmosphere that was so inspirational to the artists. After a picnic lunch, leave Broken Hill and travel to the Silver City Highway to Mildura. Overnight City Gate Motel, Mildura.

. Day Seven – Enjoy a day trip to the World Heritage area of Mungo National Park – an amazing moonscape with Aboriginal links dating back tens of thousands of years. A picnic lunch is provided. Overnight City Gate Motel, Mildura.

. Day Eight – Leave Mildura and travel on the Sturt Highway through the River Murray towns of Renmark, Berri, Barmera, Waikerie and the Barossa Valley to Adelaide. Lunch is provided.

. Operates:
. On demand from central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Nelson Five Day Tour – DST18

Nelson is a charming village by the sea where you can relax and enjoy yourself surrounded by beautiful bush country and miles of sandy beaches, where the river runs free.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel along the South Eastern Freeway through the Adelaide Hills to Tailem Bend and Coomandook before taking an interesting detour to Coonalpyn along a route used by the Gold Escorts in the 1850’s. Rejoin the Dukes Highway and travel through Tintinara to Keith for lunch stop. The wine region emerges as you pass through Padthaway and on to one of the regions largest commercial centres, Naracoorte. Overnight Greenline Motel, Naracoorte.

. Day Two – After breakfast, enjoy a visit to the beautiful Alexandra Cave in the Naracoorte Caves Conservation Park and then on to the nearby Bool Lagoon, a large wetlands area comprising bird sanctuary and wildlife reserve. There is an opportunity to visit a selection of the 20 wineries that occupy the 16 kilometre long strip of red Terra Rosa soil along the Highway at Coonawarra. Our lunch stop is at Penola (in the heart of the Mother Mary MacKillop story), followed by a scenic journey through timber country to Mount Gambier and Nelson. Overnight Motel Black Wattle, Nelson.

. Day Three – This morning you may wish to walk around the town (the Black Wattle Motel is situated on the banks of the beautiful Glenelg River, surrounded by natural beauty and rugged coastline). Enjoy lunch at the Hotel Mount Gambier, followed by a visit to some of the attractions in the Mount Gambier area. Overnight Motel Black Wattle, Nelson.

. Day Four – Embark at 0930 aboard the Nelson Endeavour for a cruise to the Princess Margaret Rose Caves. Of the many caves in the region, the main cave of the Princess Margaret Rose Caves is one of the most beautiful. It contains excellent examples of actively growing stalactites, stalagmites, helictites and other spectacular formations. Morning tea is provided during the three hour and 30 minute cruise before returning to Nelson for lunch. A visit to the small township of Donovans, the Bulley Ranges and the award wining Dartmoor Waterfall Gardens provides an interesting afternoon. Overnight Motel Black Wattle, Nelson.

. Day Five – Leave Nelson, travelling via the Princes Highway through Mount Gambier to Tantanoola, Millicent, Beachport, Robe, Kingston and the Coorong, arriving in Adelaide at 1830 approximately.

. Operates:
. On demand at 0730 approximately from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Flinders Ranges Five Day Tour – DST06

Depart Adelaide travelling through Melrose, Quorn and Hawker to an overnight stop at Rawnsley Park. Explore this rugged and picturesque country as tour heads north through the Flinders Ranges National Park to Stokes Hill Lookout, Bunyeroo Valley and Brachina Gorge then past the Great Wall of China before arriving at the Old Copper Mining town of Blinman. Crossing into the Gammon Ranges travel further north through Balcanoona to Arkaroola Village. Experience the Ridge Top Tour and local attractions including Bolla Bollana and The Pinnacles. Return route travels through Italowie Gorge, Nepabunna and Copley to Hawker, returning to Adelaide via Kanyaka Ruins, Craddock, Orroroo and Jamestown.

. Operates:
. On demand from central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

From Valley to Mallee Two Day Tour – DST04

Spend two days in the beautiful Clare Valley. Highlights include Martindale Hall at Mintaro, Geralka Farm and Dares Hill Circuit at Terowie.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel via the northern suburbs of Adelaide and the Barker Inlet Wetlands area to Elizabeth and the Gawler Bypass with a stop for morning tea at the historic Riverton Railway Station. Continuing through the Clare Valley towns of Saddleworth and Manoora to Mintaro. Visit the elegant Georgian Mansion of Martindale Hall, featured in the film Picnic at Hanging Rock. An interesting drive takes us to Clare and further to Geralka Rural Farm for a picnic lunch and guided tour which includes the Wheal Sarah Copper Mine with mine train ride, a collection of vintage farm machines and the famous Geralka Clydesdale horses. After lunch visit beautiful Jamestown, and then take a scenic drive into historic Terowie for a tour of the town to capture the unique Terowie experience. Today Terowie is declared a historical township with a fascinating Main Street frontage from the 1800’s. Overnight Peterborough Motel.

. Day Two – After a cooked breakfast, view the Wonna Range, then continue on the Dares Hill Circuit tour through changing scenery of saltbush, blue bush and dense mallee woodland past Pandappa Homestead and further to the Ketchowla Homestead ruins. Near the Mallett Homestead, the road climbs to the summit of Dares Hill for spectacular panoramic views. From Dares Hill continue to Hallett, Mount Bryan and Burra, take the scenic route to Bungaree Station – a beautiful rural property situated in the Clare Valley. Enjoy a pleasant drive through interesting Clare Valley towns to arrive in Adelaide at approximately 1800.

. Operates:
. On demand 0730 day one to 1800 day two, from central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Port of Mannum Day Tour – DST07

Historic Port of Mannum day tour travelling through the Adelaide Hills towns of Gumeracha, Birdwood and Tungkillo. Join a guided tour of historic Mannum and the PS Marion Paddlesteamer. Enjoy a picnic lunch. Return to Adelaide via Murray Bridge, Hahndorf and the South East Freeway.

. Operates:
. On demand 0830 to 1730, from central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Limestone Coast Coonawarra Five Day Tour – DST10

Coonawarra and Limestone Coast five day tour travelling in air conditioned comfort in a unique 18 seater purpose built six wheel drive vehicle. Highlights of this tour include Padthaway, Naracoorte, Alexandra Cave, Bool Lagoon, Penola, Mount Schank, Port MacDonnell, Mount Gambier, Millicent, Robe and Kingston.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel along the South Eastern Freeway through the Adelaide Hills to Tailem Bend and Coomandook before taking an interesting detour to Coonalpyn, along a route used by the Gold Escorts in the 1850’s. The wine region emerges as we pass through Padthaway and on to one of the regions largest commercial centres Naracoorte. Overnight Greenline Motel, Naracoorte.

. Day Two – After breakfast, enjoy a visit to the Alexandra Cave and Bool Lagoon, a large wetlands area comprising bird sanctuary and wildlife reserve. There is an opportunity to visit a selection of the 20 wineries that occupy the 16 kilometres long strip of red Terra Rosa soil along the Highway at Coonawarra. Lunch stop is Penola (at the heart of the Mother Mary MacKillop story) and it is then a scenic journey through timber country to Mount Gambier. Overnight Red Carpet Inn, Mount Gambier.

. Day Three – Enjoy a tour of Mount Gambier which includes the Pumping Station and Lakes area, then head south to Mount Schank, Little Blue Lake and Port MacDonnell. There will be time to explore this historic area before driving around Discovery Bay to Nelson. A highlight of the trip is a barbecue dinner aboard the cruise boat Nelson Endeavour for a delightful cruise along the Glenelg River. Return to hotel at approximately 2130. Overnight Red Carpet Inn, Mount Gambier.

. Day Four – After breakfast, visit the Lady Nelson Interpretive Centre for an insight into the history of the Limestone Coast and heritage of the Shipwreck Coast. At least 70 vessels of varying sizes were lost in the Southern Ocean or wrecked on the rocky coastline. Trace the history of the Steamer The Admella that was wrecked off Carpenter Rocks in 1859. After a look at Umpherston Sink Hole and a stop at Yoey’s Cheese and Gourmet shop travel to Carpenter Rocks, Pelican Point and Blackfellow Caves for a spectacular view of the coastline. Return to Mount Gambier via the Kongorong Forest. Overnight Red Carpet Inn, Mount Gambier.

. Day Five – Leave Mount Gambier travelling through pine forest country to Tantanoola and Millicent and then on to Robe and Kingston for lunch. The Princes Highway takes us through the Coorong to Meningie and Wellington for return to Adelaide via Strathalbyn.

. Operates:
. On demand at 0730 approximately from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Cooper’s Creek Innamincka Mootwingee National Park Seven Day Tour – DST20

Day One – You are welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned bus for departure from West Beach at 0730. We travel via Gawler and mid north towns, stopping for a cup of coffee at Tarlee and lunch at Gladstone. Our journey continues on to Quorn and Hawker then through Leigh Creek to Copley, and our first night at the Leigh Creek Hotel. Overnight Leigh Creek Hotel, Copley.

. Day Two – We travel to Lyndhurst and the start of the legendary Strzelecki Track (named by Captain Charles Sturt), through Mount Hopeless, the Cobbler Desert, Merty Merty, then via the old stock route (or alternatively Moomba), to meet the Cooper Floodplain and the township of Innamincka. Overnight Cooper Creek Homestay, Innamincka.

. Day Three – Today is spent exploring this historic Burke and Wills area, and we visit Camp LXV, the ‘Dig Tree’, Kings marker and Burke’s memorial on the banks of the Mulkonbar Waterhole. There is opportunity to enjoy a walk along the banks of the Cooper Creek and view the abundant wildlife. The Elizabeth Symons Nursing Home (Built in 1929) has been restored as an interpretive centre for the area. An optional sunset boat cruise on the Cooper Creek makes for a wonderful day. Overnight Cooper Creek Homestay, Innamincka.

. Day Four – The interest is far from over as we head south along the Strzelecki Track to Merty Merty Junction. At this point we head east to Cameron Corner, which is the border of South Australia and New South Wales. A little further, we come upon Fort Grey in the Sturt National Park and it is another 109 kilometres to Tibooburra. Overnight Tibooburra Hotel, Tibooburra.

. Day Five – After exploring Milparinka – (a ghost town of the gold mining era,) we take a road out to Depot Glen, where Captain Charles Sturt was stranded for five months due to extreme temperatures, and then travel the Silver City Highway through Packsaddle and Fowlers Gap to Broken Hill, arriving mid afternoon. There is opportunity for sightseeing around the city of Broken Hill. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Six – An interesting day awaits us as after breakfast we head to Mootwingee National Park, an area with permanent water points in the Byngnano Ranges – once a significant meeting and ceremonial place for the Aboriginal people. There is a cultural centre, and we have a Ranger as our guide. This is a day tour with picnic lunch. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Seven – Leaving Broken Hill, we take a look at Silverton, before travelling home to Adelaide on the Barrier Highway through Yunta, Burra and Gawler.

. Operates:
. On demand at 0730 approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Yorke Peninsula Four Day Tour – DST14

Yorke Peninsula Hit the Trail four day tour explores the heritage significance of many of the hotels and buildings in towns on the Yorke Peninsula of South Australia. The history, combined with the cultural contrasts of farming, mining, fishing and wine growing is drawn together in a relaxing informative and scenic experience.

. Day One – Be welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air conditioned six wheel drive vehicle for departure from Adelaide at 0730. Travel along Highway One to Port Wakefield with its sea faring atmosphere, for morning tea, then head down Yorke Peninsula to Port Clinton and the saltpan area of Price. Ardrossan with excellent views of St Vincent Gulf, provides an ideal backdrop for lunch, after which continue through Pine Point and Port Julia to the timber covered cliffs of Port Vincent. The lime mining towns of Stansbury and Wool Bay provide further interest before arriving at Edithburgh for the night. Overnight The Anchorage Motel, Edithburgh.

. Day Two – After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Troubridge point, the Clan Ranald anchor and Suicide Point. Visit Marion Bay, Stenhouse Bay and Innes National Park – a coastal Reserve comprising nearly 10,000 hectares of natural bushland and representing one of only a few pockets of significant vegetation on the peninsula. Points of interest here include Cable Bay, Cape Spencer, the historic site of Inneston and Pondalowie Bay. The remains of around 40 shipwrecks lie in this area. After lunch in the park, head up the western side of the foot of the peninsula to Corny Point, Galway Bay and Point Turton in Hardwicke Bay. From Point Turton there is a small detour to Warooka and Yorketown. Overnight The Anchorage Motel, Edithburgh.

. Day Three – Today, travel up the Peninsula visiting Brentwood, Minlaton and Urania. At the geographical centre of the Peninsula is Maitland, which is passed en-route to Moonta and Wallaroo. The heritage trail continues at Kadina stopping to visit the Banking and Currency Museum for a nostalgic look at Australia’s banking industry housed within Kadina’s oldest surviving bank building. Overnight Sonbern Lodge Motel, Wallaroo.

. Day Four – We visit the pleasant seaside town of Port Broughton to hit the trail and head through the towns of Snowtown and Blyth to the Clare Valley. The heritage trail continues after lunch passing through Watervale and Auburn – birthplace of the poet CJ Dennis. Continue travelling through Tarlee and the Gawler By Pass, arriving in Adelaide at approximately 1730.

. Operates:
. On demand 0730 Day one to 1730 Day four approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

The Back O’Bourke Nine Day Tour – DST19

White Cliffs and the Darling River Run to The Back O’Bourke and more.

. Day One – You are welcomed aboard your unique, purpose built and air-conditioned bus for departure from Adelaide at 0730. We travel to Broken Hill via the Barrier Highway, passing through historic small towns such as Riverton and Burra, and Yunta. We take a town tour of Broken Hill, before checking into our motel. Overnight Silver Haven Motel, Broken Hill.

. Day Two – Excitement is in the air as we travel out of Broken Hill on the Silver City Highway to Mutawintji National Park (formerly Mootwingee National Park), 130 kilometres north-east of Broken Hill in the Bynguano Ranges. This park has totally different and perhaps even more fascinating scenery to offer -secluded gorges and quiet waterholes that attract a profusion of wildlife. The main attractions of the park are the ancient galleries of Aboriginal rock art in the caves and overhangs, and we view these accompanied by our Aboriginal tour guide. Following a picnic lunch, we travel to the remarkable opal mining town of White Cliffs, famous for its opals and underground accommodation. Overnight Underground Motel, White Cliffs.

. Day Three – One of the legends of Outback New South Wales is The Darling River Run – a track over 300 kilometres running alongside the Darling River, from Wilcannia to Bourke. There is an element of the ‘frontier’ as we travel along this track on the Darling floodplains through the tiny townships of Tilpa and Louth to Bourke. Our accommodation in Bourke is the restored and refurbished old Telegraph Hotel, set in over one hectare of beautiful gardens, and the only motel in town with river frontage. Overnight Bourke Riverside Motel, Bourke.

. Day Four – A day of sight seeing. Bourke is a charming town on the banks of the Darling and was established as a paddle steamer destination. A modern day replica of a paddle steamer, the ‘Jandra’ gives us a chance during an hour cruise to experience the Darling of old. Following the cruise, we visit the Exhibition Centre and historic cemetery, and then head out of town a short distance to Mount Oxley where there are magnificent views and wedge-tailed eagles. Overnight Bourke Riverside Motel, Bourke.

. Day Five – Leaving Bourke this morning, we head to the town of Brewarrina – one of those truly rare locations where you can actually see a working example of human ingenuity from long before recorded time. The fish traps below the rock bar lying across ‘Garrunga’, the large water hole in the Barwon River north-west of the town, are still luring fish today, as they did some 40,000 years ago. We travel on to Goodooga, near the Queensland Border, and then Lightning Ridge, a town renowned for its beautiful black opal. Overnight Lightning Ridge Motel.

. Day Six – Today’s short travelling distance allows time for a leisurely look around Lightning Ridge, before we head to Walgett, the centre of the Shire. At Coonamble we take a scenic detour into the Warrumbungle National Park where there are a couple of lookouts and easy walks to experience the peace and tranquillity of a protected, fragile environment guarded by the lofty mountains. Overnight Village Motor Inn, Gilgandra.

. Day Seven – Warren Shire situated on the Macquarie River is Australia’s Wool and Cotton Capital. We pass through Warren on our way to Nyngan, a pleasant country town and service centre on the Bogan River. Continuing further south, we come to the town of Cobar – a copper mining town founded in the early 1870s. Since copper was discovered here in 1869, Cobar has experienced three mining booms. Today, it’s home to the vast CSA Mine, said to be the most highly mechanised in Australia, extracting about 850,000 tonnes of copper every year. Overnight Copper City Motel, Cobar.

. Day Eight – Bushrangers and Cobb & Co Coaches – it’s all part of the history of the area we travel through today as we leave Cobar and travel along an unsealed road to Ivanhoe Amidst flat saltbush plains and red sandy ridges is Hatfield. It was here in 1879 that a band of four horse thieves began a very short-lived spree of bushranging when they robbed the hotelier. They were caught after a shootout two days later and subsequently executed. We continue on to Balranald. Overnight Sturt Motel, Balranald.

. Day Nine – An interesting trip home today, as we travel through Mildura and the Riverland Towns of Renmark, Barmera, Waikerie on the Sturt Highway, arriving in Adelaide approximately 1800.

. Operates:
. On demand at 0730 approximately, from a central point in Adelaide – passengers assemble at one location, details on application.

Website: www.desertskytours.com

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