Although the resort is trying to make...
Although the resort is trying to make a name from the restaurant, it's the location that makes this a great place to stay. It's close to Ormiston Gorge and Pound (an essential stop for anyone on more than a lightning visit to Central Australia). It also overlooks the Glen Helen River and beyond it, only a few 100 metres from the back porch, a huge red escarpment. Sitting out the back at sunset with a cold drink in hand and watching the wallabies hopping around the cliff face is enough to make anyone start to feel that they are on holidays!
The rooms are pretty basic, but clean and functional. The bathroom in our room was small and cold (it was July). Our room had a large double bed and a double bunk bed.
The restaurant is really trying to be up-market and trendy, but the kitchen just doesn't deliver with any notable finesse. It's quite OK food, but a simpler menu and maybe 10% off the price would better set expectations.
The bar is popular (though not usually rowdy) and well stocked with more than just a few local beers. Some evenings there is also live entertainment to suit the atmosphere.
Breakfast is typical Oz country - big and fried, though lighter options exist.
A tip for travellers: if you stay the night go for a walk after dark up the road, away from the lights, and marvel at the night sky. It makes you realize just how fabulous the southern sky is!
