Perhaps the most remote of Australia's regions, the Northern Territory is a fascinating, magical land of vast wetland plains, a craggy coastline and dazzling red desert. Undoubtedly most famous as the site of Uluru, the Northern Territory is rich in Aboriginal heritage and culture, and you’ll find opportunities aplenty to delve into this unique identity. Although less-visited than many parts of Australia, the Northern Territory boasts some excellent accommodation options — many clustered around Darwin and Alice Springs. Our list of the best places to stay in the Northern Territory includes intimate B&Bs, remote homesteads and resorts alike, ensuring that there really is something for everyone in the ‘Top End’.
Coastal Darwin is a lively state capital, with fantastic food and craft markets at Parap and Mindil Beach, and an exuberant arts scene. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is a real highlight, whilst the Waterfront Precinct’s buzzy cafes and eateries are well worth a wander. Take sea and river cruises, spot rare flora in the Botanical Gardens, and admire birds and reptiles aplenty in the Charles Darwin National Park and the expansive wetlands of the Kakadu National Park.
A short flight or scenic train ride to the south, Alice Springs is the gateway to the red deserts of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This little outback city has a cool, creative vibe, with some brilliant galleries showcasing Aboriginal artwork, as well as heritage buildings and guided cultural tours. Venture to the National Parks and into the outback for hiking, mountain biking, camel riding, wildlife safaris and star-gazing. Set in a remote wilderness sure to delight keen adventurers of all ages, the best places to stay in the Northern Territory await.