A day in Quorn
At the heart of the Flinders Ranges, old-world streetscapes are set against the distinctive Australian outback in the historic railway town of Quorn.
Nearly four hours’ drive from Adelaide, just north of Port Augusta, Quorn was once a vital and bustling crossroad for trans- Australian travel. Today, its old-world charm sits alongside a new generation of artisan makers.
See
Step back in time aboard the restored steam and diesel trains of the Pichi Richi Railway. Half and full-day excursions follow sections of the original Ghan route between Port Augusta, Quorn and Woodlshed Flat, chuffing past kangaroos, rocky red outcrops and bluebush plains. Afterwards, go behind the scenes in the volunteer-run workshop to learn how the historic locomotives and carriages are maintained.
To get your bearings, pick up a map from the visitor centre and follow the self-guided heritage walk through town. Grand stone hotels, railway buildings and civic halls hint at Quorn’s prosperous past. On the last Sunday of each month, the Quorn Markets take over the town hall and surrounding square with local produce and handmade goods.
In the evening, settle in for the free Quorn Silo Light Show, projected nightly from sunset. Pack a picnic or get takeaway from a nearby pub, and enjoy the audiovisual celebration of the region.
Eat and drink
Quandongs, the tart-yet-sweet native fruit are so beloved that the town holds an annual festival dedicated to them. If you can’t make it for the festival, taste the fruit throughout the year at The Quandong Café. This restaurant uses the fruit in homemade cakes, scones and jam, and also in savoury dishes.
If you’d rather drink the native fruit, Flinders Gin offer a tasting flight inspired by the landscape. Flavours of quandong, native lemongrass, butterfly pea flower and more are infused in spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic thirst-quenchers.
Visit Scruffy Fella to start your day with a barista-made coffee and a monster cookie. Return later for a local craft beer or wine and browse handmade products including speciality beard care and candles, in the company of the shop’s resident pooches, Harry and Willie.
Shop
Spirit of the Flinders is far more than a traditional newsagency. Alongside newsagency essentials, you’ll find curated gifts and locally made pantry goods. You can even unlock your creativity at a Studio Saturday workshop.
Take home quality treats from the charming family-run shop, A Dash of Oak. The store has everything from books and jewellery to games for kids lining the beautiful stone walls.
Bargain hunters and sustainability enthusiasts should visit the Quorn Pre-Loved Community Boutique. You’ll find a treasure trove of second-hand clothing, books, manchester and homewares near the silo.
Stay
With cabins and camping to suit a range of budgets and group sizes, Quorn Caravan Park is conveniently within walking distance of the silo, railway station and main street.
Great Northern Lodge, with its bright lofts and apartments, offers modern lodgings for the whole family.
Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at Pichi Richi Park. Choose from self-contained private cabins, large group quarters and campsites, all nestled among the rugged bushland.