The Romance Guide: Alice Springs

Alice Springs in Australia is a romantic destination known for its vast red desert, beautiful sunsets, and sacred landmarks. Whether seeking a private escape, stargazing with a partner, or creating lasting memories, Alice Springs welcomes visitors.

alice springs

Alice Springs is a popular spot for a romantic trip

Alice Springs is a popular destination known for its natural beauty and adventure. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a romantic getaway, a visit to Alice Springs offers the opportunity to connect with nature and each other. Do you want to spend a romantic day or the weekend in a romantic setting? Go on a day trip from Alice Springs. It's a trip you'll remember for a long time.

What to do

Keen to impress your significant other? Why not take in the outback from on high, snug in the embrace of your loved one? We reckon Outback Ballooning is the go – they've been lifting lovebirds above the stunning outback scapes of the Red Centre since the 80s. Imagine the golden sun peeping up slowly, roos hopping below, and, following your sky-high adventure, touching down for a romantic brekkie picnic just for two.

If going up high turns your stomach, how about wandering the outback atop the 'ship of the desert'? Pyndan Camel Tracks stands out as the sole camel tour mob in Alice Springs. Their crew runs one-hour scenic camel treks – a perfect chance to snuggle up to your partner while soaking up the stunning Aussie landscape.

Grab a set of wheels and make tracks to the Tjoritja West MacDonnell National Park, affectionately dubbed the 'West Macs', sprawling over 160km through the heart of the Red Centre. Pull on your hiking boots and spend the morning tackling a bit of the Larapinta Trail together. Come arvo and dip in one of the park's many swimming holes, like Ellery Creek, Ormiston Gorge, or Redbank Gorge, to cool off.

No visit to Alice Springs is on the money without saying g'day to one of Australia's most iconic critters. The crew at The Kangaroo Sanctuary look after orphaned kangaroos. Chat with your tender sides by cuddling an adorable joey during a sunset tour.

Suggestions for places to eat and drink

There's a fair bit of charm in popping open a top-notch bottle of vino and chewing over your day with a tasty à la carte feed.

If you're on the hunt to dazzle, DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs ought to be your first port of call. The joint offers two spots for a bite. First up, Saltbush slings modern Aussie cuisine with a twist of rare bush tucker. Then there's Hanuman, dishing out an Asian fusion spread inspired by Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters' Tali serves up an Aussie-meets-French menu. Their wine list will knock your socks off if you're a budding wine connoisseur.

Thinking bush grub doesn't usually bring seafood to mind, right? But give Barra on Todd a burl. They're known for their generous menu, especially their top-notch Barramundi dishes. They're open for brekkie, lunch, and dinner every day of the week.

You can't beat Epilogue Lounge for a laid-back vibe – a top pick in Alice Springs for live tunes.

Dive deep into the spirit of the outback at the Earth Sanctuary's dinner and show, where you'll get a yarn about local Aboriginal culture, the lay of the land, and the stars above. Crack open a bubbly and tuck into a three-course Barbie dinner while the sky shifts from day to dusk over the East MacDonnell Ranges. This is just the starter in the eating adventure feast in Alice Springs.

How to relax

After a big day of adventuring around Alice Springs and her surroundings, it's time for some spoiling. If you're shacked up at Crowne Plaza Lasseters, you're lucky with Lavish Day Spa on your doorstep. Get rejuvenated with some serious remedial massages, or treat yourselves to a couple's spa package. Smack bang in the city's heart, there's also the African-vibes Mombasa Day Spa and Hair Lounge, where you can indulge in lush body wraps, zesty scrubs, and smooth milk baths.

Where to stay

Despite its out-of-the-way location, you're spoilt for choice with digs in Alice Springs.

Chasing a bit of luxury? The DoubleTree by Hilton, Alice Springs, is perfect for pairs after a bit of class: picture cozy rooms with a view of the mountains, a cracking 18-hole golf course, and a heated pool outside.

day trip from alice springs

Feeling lucky? The 4.5-star Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters is where it's at for entertainment lovers. With four eateries and bars, a nightclub, a sports theatre, a day spa, and the top-notch Lasseters Casino, boredom's off the cards.

For the nature buffs, give Squeaky Windmill Boutique Tent B&B a go. These fancy tents are just a stone's throw from Alice Springs, 15km, and a hop from the Larapinta Trail. But camping doesn't mean skimping on luxury here – each tent boasts an ensuite, air-con, a plush bed, fluffy robes, and killer views. As the sun sets, imagine kicking back on your deck with red wine in hand. Absolute bliss.