Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock Resort

Location

Located at the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, the resort is six km from the airport and 20km from Uluru itself. After a complimentary coach transfer from the airport, check in and take to the resort’s trails. Winding through the landscape, these will lead you to one of the viewing points that look out over the arid landscape to the stunning rock formations. Alternatively, hop on a coach, private car or into a helicopter for a tour of the Red Centre’s culture.

Accommodation

Options are diverse with deluxe rooms offering rock views and poolside rooms shaded under towering gum trees. All are comfortably appointed with contemporary furnishings, in-room WiFi and en suite bathrooms. A balcony or verandah lets you soak up the rays of the Australian sun or enjoy the view. For something special, opt for the Ayers Rock views while other rooms invite the beauty of the desert landscape in through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Dining

Guests here can expect a fantastic array of dining options. Enjoy a coffee and a snack at one of the many intimate cafés or enjoy local, indigenous flavours in the Arnguli Grill. There’s also Asian favourites at the Ilkari Restaurant and no trip to the land down under is complete without sampling an Aussie barbecue – available from the Pioneer BBQ and Bar. Here, guests cook their own food after selecting from a variety of select cuts.

Facilities

At Desert Gardens, you can relax poolside or in the seclusion of the native gardens before popping your head round the door of Mingkiri Arts Gallery where you can meet the resident artists and learn about their craft. If you feel particularly inspired, book yourself into an art class or workshop. The resort and its spas, restaurants, bars and tour centre is only a short walk or shuttle bus ride away.