A few weeks ago we came accross the William Creek Hotel and the North Star Hotel in South Australia. This time, on the Stuart Highway between Katherine and Tennant Creek, we spotted the Larrimah Hotel, in the tiny hamlet of the same name. As for the other two, you have to stop in this pub. You will have no problem to recognize it: the Pink Panther is sitting outside along the highway. The Larrimah Hotel is a hotel, a camping, a pub, a museum, a zoo... but also one of the many unusual places that give the Outback part of its charm. There are certainly dozens of them scattered around the country. Feel free to share your own discoveries with us!

The City of Stirling is located in the heart of the Sunset Coast, only 20 minutes away from Perth central business district. There, Scarborough Beach is probably one of the best beaches around Perth. It offers all the advantages of the perfect beach. It is equipped with changing rooms including showers and toilets. There are also picnic areas with barbecues and children's playgrounds (caution snakes!). Once you are done with sunbathing and surfing, you can visit one of the many bars and cafes overlooking the ocean. Ideal to enjoy the sunsets! Scarborough is also known to have a wide range of accommodation. From a room in a hostel to five-star apartments, you will find the right option to suit your budget. Finally, during the warmest months of the year, you can enjoy live performances and events at the only amphitheatre on the beach in Western Australia.

When we discovered Sydney in winter in May, Destination NSW arranged our stay at the Kirketon Hotel, member of the 8Hotels family. We were delighted by this charming 4-star boutique hotel nestled amongst the hype of the vibrant Darlinghurst neighbourhood. In Perth, we stayed at another hotel in the family: Pensione Hotel. This newly refurbished and stylish property is a real gem. It is conveniently located on the doorstep of Perth central business district, the train station, shops and restaurants. Both modern design and attention to detail offer a sense of intimacy which is truly enjoyable. As in Sydney, the beds are of high quality and exceptional comfort! The service is impeccable from the moment you enter the hotel until the moment you check out. A note signed by the General Manager of the hotel, in the room upon your arrival, expresses this personalized service perfectly. 8Hotels also offers a selection of hotels, villas, apartments and restaurants in Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Hepburn Springs (a few kilometers away from Hanging Rock), Thredbo (at the foot of Mt Kosciuszko), Bali and Paris. Having already stayed in two of their hotels, we can already highly recommend 8Hotels accommodations.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of 8Hotels.

Before crossing the Nullarbor Plain, you inevitably ask yourself the following questions:

• Will we have enough fuel?
• Will we have enough water?
• Will we have enough food?
• Is there any places to stay along the way?
• And what if we break down?

Just as we thought we had made it across unscathed, we were faced the last question. Explanations? More than 200 kilometers before reaching Norseman, the town at the western end of the plain, we got a flat. Never doing things by half, within minutes of putting the spare on... Bam... another flat. Luckily we were close to a roadhouse. What is this? They are your best friends when crossing the Nullarbor Plain, the magical answer to all the questions above. They are petrol stations which often offer catering services. So neither you or your vehicle will run out of fuel. Some of them provide accommodation to spend the night with comfort that varies from very poor to very good. However, as unlikely as it may seem, there is not necessarily a garage. If you break down and it is serious, often towing and repair costs are more expensive than abandoning your vehicle on the side of the road and buying a used one in Perth or Adelaide. If your problem is minor, you have access to, thanks to the previous category, one of the world's largest free auto parts self-service. And if you do not find what you are looking for, there is always the solution to get help from road trains which will drop at the roadhouse what you need and that you have previously purchased by phone in the "closest" town. This is what we have tested. Expect random delivery delays.

In the desert, at no surprise to anyone, it is a vastness of nothing. So, we are somewhere in South Australia in the middle of nowhere, far from Adelaide, on the famous Oodnadatta Track. All of the Outback is occupied by the void ... All? No! A small town of indomitable Australians maintain their mark within the nothingness. With a permanent population estimated at between three and ten people, William Creek is the smallest "city" of Australia. Ironically, it is located on Anna Creek Station, the world's biggest working cattle station: 23,777 sq km (larger than Israel!). If we are talking about William Creek it is because you must go there once in your lifetime to visit the William Creek Hotel. Dating from 1887, this bar, hotel, camping, restaurant, gas station, made ​​of timber and corrugated iron is a legend. Inside it is like a giant visitor's book decorated with business cards, words scrawled on bank notes, caps and other random pieces of memorabilia left by its visitors. The atmosphere is very warm. The restaurant serves hearty food of the Outback. Unique experience guaranteed!
William Creek has its own airport, departure point for scenic flights over Lake Eyre. To follow our trip in the desert, visit our facebook page where more photos await you.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of William Creek Hotel.

Staying amongst an Indigenous Australian community is something we have wanted to do since the beginning of our project. It became a reality in the Flinders Ranges at the Aboriginal community of Iga Warta. What an amazing experience it was! We were welcomed with open arms by the extremely friendly, warm and open hearted people of Iga Warta. It was as if we were part of the family. Gathered around the fire, we were treated to a special feast of kangaroo and emu which had been cooked using the traditional method handed down from their ancestors. Whether for a few hours or few days, we strongly recommend a visit to Iga Warta. This is a unique opportunity to understand more about Aboriginal culture and lifestyle. On site, various educational activities and accommodation options are available. Not to be missed!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Iga Warta.

Today we take you to the western Flinders Ranges, where the mountains meet the desert to live our first real Outback experience. We spent a few days at Beltana Station, a fully working sheep and cattle station located on a property of more than... 400,000 acres! If Beltana Station was a sovereign state, it would rank just after Mauritius in the list of countries and dependencies by area. We can tell you that it is huge and that you will never be disturbed by the neighbours! The place is rich in history with most of its stone buildings dating from the nineteenth century. The farm was also the starting point for various expeditions including one made ​​famous by Ernest Giles in 1875. It is also in Beltana that Thomas Elder imported some of the first camels to arrive in South Australia. Among the many activities offered on site today, it is still possible to participate in a safari of several days with these magnificent creatures. A 4WD tour is also a must. From the summit of Mount Deception, which does not deserve its name, the view over the plains is breathtaking. Beltana Station offers a variety of accommodation options to meet different travelers needs ranging from camping to private rooms in the Shearers' Quarters historical buildings to the Overseer's Cottage. Whether for a weekend or long holidays on the farm, Beltana Station is a destination that will immerse you in the heart of the Australian Outback and will allow you to reconnect with the deepest human values​​. For those looking to work in Australia, make sure to contact Laura and Graham. They might have something to offer. We fell in love!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Beltana Station.

The most famous place in the Flinders Ranges is probably Wilpena Pound. At the foot of this majestic natural amphitheater is Rawnsley Park Station which is a perfect base for exploring the region. Initially dedicated to sheep, this immense property of 12,000 hectares is now a multiple South Australian Tourism Awards award-wining resort. It offers various accommodation options, including camping opportunities. However we stayed in their signature luxury eco-villas. Designed to blend perfectly into the environment, these modern cottages are the ultimate in luxury accommodation in the heart of the Flinders Ranges. They offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the highlight experience is the presence of a retractable roof in the bedrooms where you can admire the stars before you drift off to sleep! On-site adventure opportunities, whether in 4WD (Arkapena Tracks Self Drive), bush walking or mountain biking, are numerous and will keep you busy for days. We love it!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Rawnsley Park Station.

On the way to the Flinders Ranges, which we will discuss in the coming days, we found a hotel among the most unusual of the world: North Star Hotel. This hotel restaurant is located in the heart of the charming town of Melrose, a great place to explore the scenic gorges of Mount Remarkable National Park. The hotel has four ensuite hotel rooms, two cottages and two ... trucks! Yes, you read correctly. So we literally slept in the back of a truck! Very novel. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of this accommodation. It might look rustic from outside but the inside allows you to access all the comforts of a traditional hotel room with bathroom, heating and even a small kitchenette to prepare breakfast. Is this the representation of an ideal romantic weekend for an Australian from the outback? Not sure. They might not be high end luxury hotel rooms but these boutique hotel trucks are perfect for a rustic country style getaway. We certainly urge you to consider spending at least one night during a visit to this region in South Australia.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of North Star Hotel.

Southern Fleurieu Peninsula is a tourist destination becoming increasingly popular in South Australia. Fortunately the region still retains its natural tranquility. The coastline that stretches more than fifteen kilometres between the historic river port of Goolwa and Victor Harbor offers beautiful beaches in summer and is a great place to spot migrating whales in winter. It is no surprise therefore to find many hosting options in the area. The most famous and certainly the most unique, are the Beach Huts. Located within walking distance of Middleton Beach, these twelve self-contained accommodations are absolutely lovely. All are decorated differently from each other, inside and out. Some are even equipped with a spa. Upon your arrival, a bottle of sparkling wine and provisions for breakfast await you in your room. It is a quaint and novel concept, done really well. The Beach Huts are clean, modern, cozy:  in short, it feels great to stay there! Note that you can also enjoy the barbecue and tennis court on site.

The writers were guests of Beach Huts.

Photo: Beach Huts Middleton

Halls Gap is a small village located in the heart of the Grampians. This is where the "human presence" of the region is concentrated. The visitor information centre, a petrol station, several restaurants and cafes and a few shops are there. During our visit, we stayed at Halls Haven Holiday Units, located a few kilometers away from the village. This small friendly complex is ideal for relaxing. Far away from the road, every one can enjoy the silence. The units are located around a small pond with the Grampians as a backdrop. On site, visitors have access to different activities such as tennis, cycling or DVD rental. The self-contained accommodation is equipped with a full kitchen. In fact this is a perfect place for families and budget travelers who want to stay in Halls Gap!

The writers were guests of Halls Haven Holiday Units.

iPhoneography Oz spent a few days at Saint Patrick's Luxury Boutique Hotel. As its name suggests, here we do not skimp on comfort! This superb accommodation, a cross between a bed & breakfast and a hotel, is located in Koroit. This small Irish rural town lies at the western end of the Great Ocean Road. The building is an impressive convent which has been renovated to provide all the necessary comfort. The interior design, combining antique and contemporary style, is amazing. There are five bedrooms in total which are all different from each other. The one we stayed in is handsomely appointed including a small lounge with armchairs covered in burgundy velvet. The bathroom has a retro claw-foot tub and a huge shower. On the ground floor, you can spend time in the Lilac Lounge or the library where you can borrow books and DVDs for your room. We did not experience the breakfast but know that it is included in the room price. Staying at Saint Patrick's Luxury Boutique Hotel is an affordable luxury that we highly recommend!

The writers were guests of Saint Patrick's Luxury Boutique Hotel.

The village of Port Campbell is an excellent base to explore the Twelve Apostles and other rock formations of the Great Ocean Road. It is located a little over two hours west of Melbourne. We spent one night there at Port O Call Motel. This little stop-over is located in the centre of the village, just five minutes drive away from the Twelve Apostles. The rooms are as large as the ceilings are high: you will not feel a lack of space. Each room has access to free Wi-Fi and cable television. If weather permits, outside your room, you can spend time on the veranda overlooking a lovely garden. Finally, although the visitor information centre is located across the street, be sure to talk to the venue owners. They have lived in the area for generations and are an absolute wealth of information!

The writers were guests of Port O Call Motel.

A few days ago we gave you some ideas on what to do in Hobart. It was missing a must do: MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). And when we talk about a must do, we mean not to be missed at all. As far as museums go this is definitely our best and most intriguing experience. Really. If you are not a fan of museums a visit to MONA could quite easily convert you. David Walsh, the owner, is a genius who made his fortune in gambling. He is an art collector whose pieces suggest an eccentric character. He designed his museum in such an innovative way with the intention of challenging the visitor's idea of a conventional museum. That is why he has installed... a tennis court at the entrance. Once inside... we do not want to say any more, you will form your own opinion! After all, David wants everyone to experience the place through their own eyes. Caution, some of the more controversial exhibits may offend. Bars, library, cafe, brewery, winery, restaurant and pavillions (hotel) are some of the services that are available on site.

The Lodge on Elizabeth is an accomodation in Hobart where we stayed. This building is steeped in history since it is one of the oldest houses in the city, or even in Australia. The Georgian mansion was built in 1829 and is now listed by the National Trust of Australia and the Register of the National Estate. It has become part Australia's heritage protected in perpetuity. Before being what it is today, the huge house was first used as a private school for boys and later became the residence of notables including that of a Premier of Tasmania. Staying at The Lodge on Elizabeth is a real return to the nineteenth century as the classic decoration of the rooms and common rooms will remind you. We especially appreciated the lounge room, the comfort of the place in general and the friendly hospitality of our hosts. For your convenience all rates include a continental buffet breakfast. For other meals, please note that the hotel is near the restaurant hub of Hobart.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of The Lodge on Elizabeth.

Tasmania has countless bed and breakfast's (B&B). An additional tourist attraction for travelers. Nothing like staying with a host, rather than in a hotel, to appreciate more of the warmth of the population. It is also a great way to learn more about the area and discover secret places that you would not find in guidebooks. So we decided to do a review of this industry in Tasmania. The first to greet us is Anabel's of Scottsdale, in the town of the same name, halfway between Launceston and the East Coast. It is not really a hotel. It is not really a bed and breakfast. It is not really a motel. Anabel's of Scottsdale combines the advantages of the three categories without the drawbacks. The rooms are separated from the main building where the reception and dining room are. They are large and have all fully equipped kitchens. Due to the season we did not see any flowers, but the garden of the property is classified as a National Trust. Staying at Anabel's of Scottsdale is a pure pleasure. Be sure to chat with Andrea, the owner. In addition to her extreme kindness, she will provide you with all necessary information about activities to do in the area. We recommend it!

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Anabel's of Scottsdale.

We have fallen in love with Tasmania over the past days. The island is quiet all the time, has a temperate climate and its landscapes are simply beautiful. Playing golf is an activity that allows you to enjoy each of these qualities. Tasmania hosts over 80 golf courses, some ranked among the best courses in the world. We practiced our swing on the Country Club Tasmania's driving range, located a few minutes away from Launceston. For your information, it is the only undercover driving range in Northern Tasmania. It is open every day of the week. The complex also hosts an 18 Hole Championship Golf Course, villa suites & hotel, venues for live entertainment, a casino and a few restaurants. We were invited to try the Terrace Restaurant, one of the best of the area. Unfortunately we did not know that it was only open for dinner. So we had lunch at the Links Restaurant, whose variety and quality of a la carte dishes are certainly not up to the standard of Terrace Restaurant's menu. Links Restaurant also offers a buffet that we did not have the chance to try.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Country Club Tasmania.