ARLTUNGA OUTBACK OF CENTRAL AUSTRALIA
- Traveldriven
- Feb 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 29
ARLTUNGA BUSH PUB
Drive to Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat.
A 4wd is not a necessity to drive to Arltunga. A reliable SUV or a sedan with normal ground clearage is suitable.
The turnoff to Arltunga is about five km short of Ross River Homestead and Resort. The road is sealed to Ross River Resort. However, from the turn off sign to Arltunga the road is 33 km of unsealed road one way. The road is in reasonable condition and the first few km winds between the hills of the East Macdonnal Ranges. Thereafter are a few small sections of road corrugations here and there and with reduced speed these are easy to navigate.
The hotel and the adjoining caravan (no powered sites) and camping park are the only services open to travellers. Clean modern amenities for park guests are to the rear of the hotel. There are ruins from the small settlement of Arltunga Historical Reserve some ten minutes' drive away and a manned ranger station and a museum. Some of the ruins have had restorations.
As aforementioned the requirement for a 4wd is not needed. This accessibility makes Arltunga an appealing option for a wider range of travellers, allowing families, solo adventurers, and couples alike to experience its charm without the need for specialised vehicles.
THE ROAD TO ARLTUNGA
The turnoff to Arltunga is conveniently located about five kilometres before reaching the Ross River Homestead and Resort, a well-known landmark in the region. The road leading to Ross River Resort is sealed and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth drive for those making their way to this picturesque area. However, once you reach the turnoff sign directing you toward Arltunga, the landscape begins to change. The next stretch of road, approximately 33 kilometres long, is unsealed and presents a different driving experience. Despite this, the condition of the road is generally reasonable, and the initial kilometres offer a scenic route that winds gracefully between the rolling hills of the East MacDonnell Ranges.
Upon arriving at Arltunga, travellers will find that the Arltunga Bush Pub serves as the central hub for visitors, alongside an adjoining caravan park. It’s important to note that there are no fuel services available in the immediate vicinity, so it's advisable to ensure your vehicle is adequately fuelled before making the trip. Just a short ten-minute drive from the pub lies the Arltunga Historical Reserve, where remnants of the small settlement can be explored. This area features several ruins that have undergone restoration efforts, making them well worth a visit for anyone interested in the rich history of the region. Additionally, there is a manned ranger station tucked away in the bush for unforeseen difficulties. Binns Track runs along in front of the hotel and continues onto Tennant Creek via unsealed roads of over 2,000 km.
FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE
The hosts of the Arltunga Bush Pub, Belinda and Brad, are genuine and down-to-earth individuals who embody the spirit of Australian hospitality. They are always willing to assist with any inquiries, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and comfortable during their stay. Their commitment to providing a homey atmosphere makes the pub a standout destination, and they are truly a credit to the hospitality scene in the Northern Territory, where warmth and friendliness are paramount.
What sets the Arltunga Bush Pub apart is the painstaking effort that Belinda and Brad have invested in its construction and design. The establishment has been built in a manner that is quintessentially Australian, blending seamlessly into the surrounding bushland as though it has been a part of the landscape for ages. Inside, visitors will find old saddles and sturdy bush timber, creating an authentic outback ambiance that is both rustic and inviting. Unlike many tourist-oriented establishments, there is no excessive clutter or gaudy decorations hanging from the ceilings, which can often detract from the genuine experience of the outback. Moreover, the pub does not employ casual staff who lack local knowledge; instead, Belinda and Brad ensure that their team is well-informed and connected to the community. While the menu may offer a limited selection, the meals are hearty and satisfying, complemented by a cold drink to quench your thirst after a day of exploration. This is truly a fair dinkum outback pub—exactly how it should be.
Although, the hotel has been painstakingly built by Belinda and Brad it has been done in a very Australian way. It bears repeating a limited choice, but hearty meal and cold drink await outback travellers inside. Just a fair dinkum outback pub. There-in lays the appeal. No more no less.
Traveldriven
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