Discover Magnificent Coober Pedy

by archi (follow)

Australia (47)      Travel Guide (33)      Local Attractions (18)      South Australia (6)      SA (4)      Coober Pedy (2)     

The majority of visitors to Australia tend to spend much of their time in more promoted locations such as Sydney and Melbourne. Though these destinations merit attention, other locations within Australia are equally deserving of your consideration. One of these out-of-the-box places to explore is Coober Pedy.

Located in one of the most unique parts of the world, Coober Pedy inhabits one of the hottest eco-spaces on the globe. The extreme climate compels many residents to actually live underground as temperatures in the summer can reach upwards of 116 degrees Fahrenheit. Within these subterranean communities, you will find charming hotels, bookstores and churches, among other unforgettable attractions. Discover below more about things to do in Coober Pedy which are certain make your visit to Australia an everlasting experience.



Big Winch
The town itself may well be one of the most compelling Coober Pedy tourist attractions, given its unique setup. At the Big Winch, you can see innovative sculpture as well as picturesque panoramic vistas of the locale.


The Catacomb Church
Founded originally in 1977, this one-of-a-kind worship space was cut out from the embedded sandstone to form the shape of a cross. Developed in a natural and unassuming manner, the space complements the surrounding opal fields. Within the church, the lectern, cross and altar have been built using indigenous mulga wood and an authentic miner's winch.

Opal Mines
Historically, the town established its vitality through the opal mining industry. Consider visiting Tom’s Working Opal Mine on Coober Pedy tours located a short drive from the main town. There you can learn about the industry, experience an opal cutting demonstration featuring the cutting and polishing of the stones as well as visit a medley of shops featuring opal jewelry.

Mining Museums
Spend time at two museums in the area dedicated to the aforementioned mining industry. For example, the Umoona Opal Mine and Museum, located on the main Hutchinson Street, features intriguing exhibitions and an interpretive Aboriginal display.
At the Old Timer’s Mine, founded in 1916, partake a guided tour through the mine as well as tour two underground homes preserved on the premises.

The Painted Dessert
The Painted Desert stems from a prehistoric Inland Sea bed whereby rain, erosion and weather have forged the picturesque hills. The contours of the terrain feature a medley of majestic colors from orange and yellow to white. The name “Painted Desert” stems from the illuminated shale on the surface hills. The bevy of shapes are formed as the surface layers of the soil dry, thereby exposing the robust colors.



The Breakaways
In addition to the mining industry, the neighboring Breakaways feature natural attractions that visitors to Coober Pedy will enjoy. The Breakaways are majestic hills that have been significantly eroded overtime, abounding with brilliant white, orange and red colors. Visit just after dawn or near dusk when the color are their most magnificent. As you photograph the setting, you will notice the colors constantly changing.


Dingo Fence
A hallmark element of Australian culture and identity, Dingo Fence features the most expansive dog fence on the planet. Located north of Coober Pedy, the site provides seamless access through car hire ( all major providers listed here carhirecooberpedy.net.au) as well to lush William Creek, Lake Eyre and the Oodnadatta Track.

#Coober Pedy
#Australia
#SA
#South Australia
#Local Attractions
#Travel Guide

I like this Article - 5

ID: 38584