Wilpena Pound Flinders Ranges SA

Travelled: 85km via Blinman to Wilpena Pound, Flinders Ranges, South Australia ($25 unpowered site)

This morning we continued east to Blinman a tiny, isolated settlement that once depended on its copper mines. Tourism is its soul survivor now with a pub, cafe, accommodation and mining tours.

We enjoyed a very unique Cornish pastie (one end has apple).

Then it was on the road again back south to Wilpena Pound.

The Wall of China…

Here there is a large camp ground with all the required facilities as well as a resort offering motel style accommodation.

We find a spot and after a cuppa we head off for a walk to the Hills Homestead. In the late 1880’s pioneers settled here to graze sheep within the natural bowl-like amphitheater which is 17km long and 8km wide, surrounded by a low lying ridge of hills which form a rim.

From the homestead we walk a little further up to Wangara Lookout which offered outstanding panoramic views across the Pound.

We doubled back through the pass, walking along the creek and 9km later we were back at camp.

Later in the afternoon we treated ourselves to a scenic flight ($198ea/30mins). We booked and paid at the resort and drive to the airstrip.

Mark our pilot takes us through a few things we need to know re the flight and then up we go.  From above we can appreciate the size and shape of the Pound.

Our pilot explains in detail about the history of the area and how these remarkable formations were created millions of years ago. We view the Elder Ranges, Edeowie Gorge, Heysen Range, ABC Range, Bunyeroo Gorge, Barchina Gorge and St.Mary Peak. Before we know it our flight is over but it was worth it. A terrific way to end a wonderful day.

Very enthusiastic in his explanations…