Romantic Adelaide to Alice Springs Road Trip to Remember

Your journey kicks off in Adelaide, where you’ll collect your camper from maui’s Adelaide motorhome hire location. With everything packed and ready to go, set out towards Clare Valley. 

Where to stop between Adelaide and Clare Valley

On your way, make a quick detour to Gawler. Known as the gateway to the Barossa Valley, Gawler is a charming town filled with historic architecture, cosy cafés, and small boutiques. Stop here for breakfast or a coffee to fuel up for the rest of the day. A warm pastry and a chat with the locals are the perfect way to ease into your Adelaide to Alice Springs adventure. 

Things to do in Clare Valley

Clare Valley is a renowned wine region, famous for producing some of Australia’s finest Rieslings. What better way to experience this region than to spend your afternoon hopping between local wineries, sampling crisp whites and enjoying the serene vineyard views? If you and your partner are up for an active experience, the Riesling Trail is a must-do. This 35 km cycling and walking path winds through picturesque vineyards and historic towns, offering a refreshing way to explore the valley’s landscape. Whether you’re on bikes or strolling hand-in-hand, it’s a scenic way to get a taste of Clare’s finest. 

Where to stay in Clare Valley

Settle in for the night at Clare Valley Caravan Park, a peaceful spot with beautiful surroundings. It’s a perfect place to unwind, especially with its proximity to local wineries and walking trails.  

Top Tip: Buy a bottle of local wine to bring home for a memorable date night in your motorhome during the trip! (check out our list of picnic food ideas in a campervan for inspiration).  

Where to stop between Clare Valley and Port Augusta

On your journey to Port Augusta, make time to stop in Gladstone. This quaint town is home to the historic Gladstone Gaol, a former 19th-century prison where you can take an intriguing tour and learn about its layered history.  

Things to do in Port Augusta

Port Augusta is your gateway to the Outback, and there’s no better place to dive into its rich natural and cultural history than the Wadlata Outback Centre. This interactive centre offers immersive exhibits on the Aboriginal history of the region, the early settlers, and the flora and fauna of the Outback. If you’re both nature enthusiasts, don’t miss the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden, a short drive away, which features unique arid-zone plants and offers beautiful walking trails with views of the Flinders Ranges – a perfect introduction to the landscapes you will be driving through in the days to come.  

Where to stay in Port Augusta

End the day at Port Augusta Holiday Park, which offers spacious sites, a well-equipped camp kitchen, and even a pool. It’s a great spot to relax after a day of exploring, with easy access to local attractions and everything you need for a comfortable night. 

Where to stop between Port Augusta and Woomera

As you make your way deeper into the Outback, take a break at Pimba, home to the iconic Spud’s Roadhouse. This classic Outback stop is a favourite among travellers for a quick bite, a coffee, and a chance to stretch your legs. It’s also a great place to meet other road-trippers. 

Things to do in Woomera

Woomera offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s military and space exploration history. Start with a visit to the Woomera Heritage and Visitor Information Centre for a deep dive into this town’s unique past. Woomera was once a restricted military town, with a huge number of rocket launches, and thus has made significant contributions to Australia’s role in space research. Be sure to wander through Rocket Park, a quirky outdoor museum featuring old rockets and missiles, perfect for some memorable photos. 

Where to stay in Woomera

Settle down at Woomera Travellers Village & Caravan Park. This quiet, well-maintained park provides clean facilities and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal Outback stopover for a restful night. 

Where to stop between Woomera and Coober Pedy

Continuing north, make sure to pause at Lake Hart for a brief walk and some photos of this beautiful salt lake. The sparkling white salt flats against the blue sky create a surreal landscape that looks like it’s been lifted from another world. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot to stretch your legs before you continue the journey north. 

Things to do in Coober Pedy

Coober Pedy, the quirky underground town, is world-famous for its opal mines. Known as the "Opal Capital of the World," Coober Pedy’s unique charm lies both above and below ground. Begin with an opal mine tour, where you can learn about the town’s fascinating mining history and perhaps even try your hand at "noodling" for opals in the old mines. Another must-visit is the Umoona Opal Mine & Museum, a fantastic place to discover the history and culture of Coober Pedy while exploring underground displays. 

For a more unique experience, check out the underground churches. St Peter & Paul’s Catholic Church, for example, is one of Coober Pedy’s first dugouts and offers a peaceful atmosphere and intriguing architecture carved right into the rock. 

Where to stay in Coober Pedy

Set up for the night at the BIG4 Stuart Range Outback Resort. This well-equipped resort offers powered sites, an onsite restaurant, and a pool, providing a comfortable stay after a day of exploring the underground wonders of Coober Pedy. 

Where to stop between Coober Pedy and Marla

Just outside of Coober Pedy, make a detour to the Breakaways Conservation Park. This park is home to stunning, unique geological formations, vibrant in colour and shaped over millennia. The Breakaways offer incredible views, especially during sunrise or sunset, and are a true testament to the rugged beauty of the Outback. 

Things to do in Marla

Marla is a small, quiet Outback town that is a great place to pause, rest, and take in the vast landscapes around you. Settle in, stretch your legs on a short Outback walk, and soak up the tranquillity of the desert. The peaceful desert setting of Marla allows you to unwind and enjoy a relaxed evening with your partner, making it a great stop before heading further north. 

Where to stay in Marla

Stay at Marla Travellers’ Rest, which offers a convenient caravan park with powered sites, amenities, and a nearby roadhouse. This rest stop is a welcome retreat with everything you need to refuel for the next day. 

Where to stop between Marla and Kulgera 

Mark a fun milestone on your journey by stopping at the border of South Australia and the Northern Territory. This spot is perfect for a quick photo-op to commemorate crossing into the NT – a sign you’re nearing the heart of the Outback! 

Things to do in Kulgera 

Kulgera is the first town you’ll encounter in the Northern Territory, offering a rustic yet welcoming Northern Territory Outback experience. Head to the local pub, where you can enjoy a meal with the locals and unwind with a cold drink. As the sun sets, take a moment to gaze up at the night sky; the lack of light pollution makes for a truly magical star-gazing experience here. 

Where to stay in Kulgura

The Kulgera Roadhouse & Campground offers a cosy and rustic campground with powered sites and essential amenities. This authentic Outback setting, combined with the warm hospitality, makes it a perfect cosy stop to rest up for the next leg of your journey. 

Where to stop between Kulgera and Erldunda 

With a shorter drive ahead, take your time and enjoy the open Outback views. This day is more about soaking in the scenery, so you won’t find any major stops along the route – just the sprawling red earth and blue skies that are uniquely Australian. 

Things to do in Erldunda 

Arrive in Erldunda, famously known as the Centre of the Centre due to its proximity to the geographical centre of Australia. The Erldunda Roadhouse is a great place to learn a bit about the area and take a break from the road. If you’re an animal lover, visit the nearby Kangaroo Sanctuary, where you can see native wildlife up close. 

Where to stay in Erldunda 

The Erldunda Roadhouse & Caravan Park provides comfortable facilities, including powered sites, a pool, and clean amenities, making it a relaxing stop before the final stretch of your road trip. 

Where to stop between Erldunda and Alice Springs 

On your way to Alice Springs, don’t miss the Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve. This unique spot features some of the world’s best-preserved meteorite craters, with short walking trails around the site where you can explore these ancient impact sites up close. 

Things to do in Alice Springs

Finish your journey in Alice Springs, a town rich in Aboriginal culture and surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Red Centre (home to some of Australia’s most scenic splendours). Spend some time at the Alice Springs Desert Park, where you can learn about the local flora, fauna, and Indigenous culture through immersive exhibits and guided tours. This final stop encapsulates the Outback experience, making it a perfect place to end your journey. For more ideas on things to do in Alice Springs, check out the full guide to unusual and unexpected things to do in Alice Springs.

Where to stay in Alice Springs

Unwind at the BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park, which offers powered sites, a pool, and family-friendly facilities. It’s the ideal spot to relax, reflect on your adventure, and maybe even start planning the next one. 

Ready to explore Australia with your partner?

 If this road trip from Adelaide to Alice Springs sounds like the perfect adventure for you, it’s time to make it happen! Book your maui motorhome online and start this romantic road trip with ease by picking up your camper from any maui branch. Whether you are looking to celebrate your next anniversary with a road trip or just looking for unique romantic getaway ideas, this road trip won’t disappoint.