5 ways to find space in South Australia

There is no one way to explore the Ikara – Flinders Ranges. With towering red cliffs, steep inclines and deep craters, to really come to terms with this landscape you need to discover it from all angles. Start by walking along dry riverbeds lined with giant Murray River Red Gums, across pebbly slopes studded with spinifex, and through rocky chasms. Add some four-wheel drives through narrow passes and across open plains, and perhaps even a sightseeing flight to admire the thrusting peaks from above.

Your base for this adventure: Rawnsley Park Station, where you can choose your comfort level, from caravanning to eco-villas that give a soft landing. They also offer multiple guided day walks direct from the property, giving you the perfect opportunity to easily take part in some of the best hiking in South Australia.

In a world where everything is measured, weighed, defined and cross-checked, one of the beautiful things about Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is that it is so hard to pin down. The lake may be massive, extending more than 9000 square metres, but its precise boundaries are always changing, depending on the rainfall. Whether it is full to the brim with floodwaters, drawing vast flocks of birds, or revealing more of the sun-baked lakebed, gazing at its beauty is a reminder of the fact that everything changes.

Arguably one of the best places to see in South Australia, and you’ll want to see it from the best vantage point possible. Sightseeing flights depart from a number of places, including Williams Creek and Ceduna.

It is happening all around us, all the time, and we barely pay it any attention. Operatic dramas are unfolding endlessly in the cosmos that surrounds us – stars being born, galaxies dying, and so much more. Tune into otherwise-invisible marvels with a tour to Australia’s first International dark-sky reserve, near Mannum in South Australia.

Juggle House Experiences hosts a River Murray Dark Sky Gold Stars Tour that will open your eyes to the dazzling dramas in the sky. An up-close view of planets, stars and nebulae, and a lesson in indigenous astronomy, will change your perspective for good.

Overlooking the city of Adelaide, Belair National Park is the state’s oldest national park and with its giant trees, impressive lakes and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle.

Take it one step further and join Big Heart Adventures on their forest bathing excursions and enjoy a sensory journey through the woods. A popular Japanese technique to improve mental and emotional wellbeing, you can now go forest bathing in South Australia and reap the rewards.

How far can you see right now? Many of us live in such high-density environments, we rarely do more than glimpse the horizon. Head out on a road trip through the Simpson Desert, however, and you can drive for days without ever reaching the horizon.

As well as drinking in some spectacular landscapes – think red sand topped by blue sky – there are plenty of adventures to be had, from soaking in the naturally-heated Dalhousie Hot Springs to creating a seemingly-endless series of sand dunes (more than 1000 by one count!).