AAT Kings: Outback Explorer Uluru to Adelaide Short Break 26/27

The self-proclaimed ‘opal capital of the world’, Coober Pedy’s many attractions lie primarily below the earth’s surface. Due to the above-ground heat (temperatures can soar) many locals choose to take up a subterranean residence as well. Once you’ve explored this fascinating community – including fossicking for opals in surrounding mines – look further afield to Aboriginal owned Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, where you’ll travel along a stretch of the Dog Fence: a barrier spanning 5,300 kilometres across three states. As mind-boggling as the construction is, it pales in comparison to the setting’s moonscape of fossilised shells and cracked grey clay. The only thing more surreal than the natural landscape is the constructed one this afternoon at Coober Pedy Opal Fields Golf Club, where the fairways are dirt and sand. Pick up a club to thump balls around the oil-soaked putting green.

Staying in:

• Mud Hut Motel, Coober Pedy (1 night)

It’s hard to imagine landscapes more dramatic than those you’ve experienced so far. But nature ups the ante at Lake Hart, a vast saltpan that sparked a community in the 1930s. Today, it’s all but deserted, adding to the ethereal atmosphere. The vastness of the South Australian outback was no doubt one of the reasons why it was chosen to become the world’s largest military land base. Believe it or not, Woomera has been a testing base for atomic bombs, ballistic missiles and satellite boosters. Mull over that en route to SA’s natural harbour of Port Augusta.

Staying in:

• Majestic Oasis Apartments (1 night)

The Wadlata Outback Centre on your Port Augusta tour was created to decode some of the countryside you’ve been traversing over the past two days. Come face-to-face with giant ripper lizards, journey back in time to when dinosaurs roamed this land, and meet some of the people who first owned, explored and settled the region – as well as some of those who live here today. There are fossils and more opals, and interactive exhibits; have you ever tried Morse code? All this outback is thirsty work. Thankfully the Clare Valley is on the horizon. Gather in the cellar door at historic Knappstein Wines to find out just why their riesling takes home so many awards. Your Uluru to Adelaide tour comes to an end on arrival in Adelaide this afternoon.