Top 5 luxury experiences in the Red Centre of the NT

The ultimate guide to luxury stays and glamping experiences in Australia’s Red Centre of the Northern Territory.

When you think of Australia’s Outback you probably haven't imagined all the ways you can end your days of exploring with a touch of luxury. Get ready to have your world flipped and take your pick from luxury lodges and glamping experiences to five star dining under the stars or an all-inclusive train journey.

1. Longitude 131

No expense was spared when this deluxe eco-camping hotel was created. The result is a truly unique way to experience Uluru. Guests have uninterrupted views of the mighty Uluru from their rooms where modern and classic furnishings meet First Nations art. Of course a visit to Uluru wouldn't be incomplete without dining under the stars at the internationally acclaimed Table 131.

Longitude overlooking Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park — The rooms at Longitude 131° overlook World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

2. Travelling on The Ghan

Nothing compares to seeing the Northern Territory via the Ghan Railway. There’s an old world luxury to be found on this historic train. It winds its way from Adelaide, through the Red Centre and to the tropical north. Along the way there’s the option to take other great tours and experience nature at its best. You’ll see the MacDonnell Ranges and the domes of Kata Tjuta/The Olgas before heading north to the stunning Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) and finishing in Darwin.

Woman on The Ghan train journey (1) — The Ghan rail journey from Adelaide to Darwin is a once in a lifetime experience

3. Kings Creek Station Dreamtime Escarpment

These luxury lodgings are the ultimate glamping experience. The perfect base for exploring the epic Kings Canyon, these “tents” (if you can call them that) are kitted out with air-conditioning, ensuites and a private deck to enjoy a glass of red while you watch the sunset.

Kings Creek Station Dreamtime Escarpment pool

4. Kings Canyon Resort Glamping Experience

Explore Uluru in the morning; relax with a massage and facial in the afternoon. Indulge in a little pampering at Red Ochre Spa, located within Sails in the Desert Hotel at Ayers Rock Resort. Why? Because you can, that’s why.

5. Lavish at Lasseters

Lasseters is your go-to destination for a luxe Alice Springs holiday. Set at the base of the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges, Lasseters has 4½ star suites, a resort-style pool, day spa, four restaurants, four bars and access to Alice’s golf course just next door. If you feel the need to ever leave this place, they also provide complimentary bikes to explore Alice Springs. And let’s be real – that bike ride will be a good excuse for a massage.

Lasseters Hotel Casino Alice Springs pool — Lasseters Hotel Casino in Alice Springs has a resort-style pool, gym and access to a golf course next door

For more trip inspiration, start planning with these NT itineraries.

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The Northern Territory is a dream hiking destination, with an abundance of wide open spaces dotted with walking trails. Walks in the Red Centre not to miss include Kings Canyon Rim Walk, Uluru walks and Walpa Gorge Walk at Kata Tjuta (The Olgas).

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It's true the Red Centre is about as far from the coastline as you can get in Australia. But don't let that deter you from packing your swimsuit and sunscreen. Wild swimming holes and outback beaches are the perfect way to cool down in the Red Centre.

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The vast emptiness of Central Australia is deceptive. Look below the surface of the Red Centre and you'll discover the world’s oldest living culture, a civilisation so intertwined with the land it is impossible to understand one without the other.