Arkaba Homestead - Hawker, South Australia

Kityayma

As first time visitors to the Flinders Ranges, we were keen to see as much as we could in the short time we had available. I don't think we could have picked a better way to immerse ourselves in the landscape than on the three day Arkaba walk.||The trail itself is fabulous, challenging in sections, especially when the temperatures rise, but consistently rewarding. We meandered through creek beds lined with ancient river red gums and on to rocky ridge lines which gave us panoramic views across the ranges. ||Our wonderful guides Sari and Kaeleb brought the landscape to life as they shared their knowledge and passion for conservation which is a real feature of Arkaba’s operations. We saw an impressive array of wildlife on the trail including emus galore, rock wallabies, kangaroos, wallaroos, and even a delightful echidna, along with a variety of bird species.||Arkaba Homestead caters to just ten guests at a time, some doing the walk like us and others there for a more relaxed itinerary featuring outings to various parts of the property and short walks. Tiarna and the homestead crew made us feel genuinely welcome from the moment we arrived and kept us wonderfully well-fed throughout our stay. We were fortunate to stay in the charming Coach House which is separate form the other rooms in the main house. The accommodation is simple but welcoming and tastefully decorated. Our king sized bed was blissfully comfortable at the end of a long day’s walk.||Everything about our Arkaba experience felt authentic. It was a pleasure to meet the team and experience this magnificent landscape through their expert guidance.

sbarrow

Inspiring, authentic and welcoming, Arkaba was not the most luxurious lodge on our three week tour of Australia, but it was most definitely our favourite. The accommodation is homely and comfortable, the food is simple but tasty. However it is the inspiring story, the charm of the hosts and the return to nature that made it so wonderful. Many thanks to all the staff but notably Nathan, Monica and Bruce. We’d love to come back and do the Arkaba walk. See you next time.

ballantrae2

Brilliant location and activities. We’re avid bushwalkers and spent almost all our daylight hours outdoors…had a lunch at the homestead one day, a packed lunch for the next. Plenty of native animal encounters, a highlight being up close and personal with a small mob of the endangered Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby. For those less energetic there’s plenty of space to just chill. The chef Joel served up Cordon Bleu quality meals at every sitting and all the staff were exceptional. Special call out for our guide Shane, whose knowledge and rachonteur skills made every walk an education and authentically Australian.

Dream786184

From the staff, to the room, to the unbelievable vistas, Arkaba should not be missed. Olivia kept us stuffed with delightful and thoughtful food, Charlie educated and led us through precarious roads and fascinating tromps. I will always be grateful for introducing us to the rock star wallaby. The sunsets are enough to recommend this outstanding property, but the staff elevates it to the next level. Thank you all!!!

Q230OVsandyb

Unable to complete the 3 day walk due to a foot injury sustained before the walk the staff were very accommodating in allowing me to travel to the camps by 4 wheel drive with Adi through the stunning scenery of the Flinders Ranges and then join the rest of the group for meals and overnighting.|Bruce, the guide, is passionate about conservation and shared his wealth of knowledge with all of the group. The amenities in the camps and at the Homestead were fabulous as was the food including an amazing last night dinner. |The team at Arkaba deserve a huge pat on the back.

Nicky B.

Wow! Seriously, just wow.

Stayed here for six nights in November, this was hands down the best experience I’ve ever had…
I’ve stayed in 5 and 6 star places throughout Australia and the world and for me this topped them all!!

From the moment we arrived to the moment we left I felt at home. The staff, Lilly, Taylor, Ella, Nathan, Monica, Joel, Olivia and Ali were phenomenal. Hospitality professionals each with their own unique knowledge and experience…

Nothing was ever too much, pre empting our needs, back up plans when the weather wasn’t great, stunning meals with local ingredients, some from the property, unlimited drinks, beautifully furnished rooms… I just wish we had stayed longer..

Thank you to all the team at Arkaba for making this holiday with my mum visiting from the UK a trio of a lifetime!

Kirk_Savage

Once in a lifetime! Wonderful lodge with Michelin Star food, great nature and very experienced guides. Scenic views! The best place to learn and experience Australien nature in the Flinders! The tours are well managed and the atmosphere in the evening on the fireplace and cool drinks were amazing!

Y7987YZsaras

This was “3rd time lucky” for us due to Covid cancellations. But so worth the wait! We were joined by old friends from Canberra & met new friends on the way. The walk is nothing short of spectacular, moving through an ancient & beautiful landscape. Then staying each night at wonderfully well thought out bush camps with amazing 3course meals under the stars! All this under the guidance of our super knowledgeable & funny fearless leader, Shane! Could not imagine anyone better suited to shepherd us city slickers through the bush! The Homestead is beautifully appointed with friendly caring staff & magical views. We could not recommend this experience more highly - you just have to go!