Prairie Hotel

An Iconic Outback Hotel

In the sleepy town of Parachilna (population seven) in South Australia, Jane and Ross Fargher have created a quiet revolution in country cuisine. First licensed in 1876, the front of the hotel was completed in 1906 and took six years to build. Jane and Ross Fargher took sole ownership of the hotel in 1994 and have embraced the old with the new and brought a stunning new dimension to Outback hospitality.

The Prairie is now Australia’s most awarded Outback hotel, renowned for its Australian native cuisine – or ‘Flinders Feral Food’ as the locals call it. Kangaroo, emu and yabbie are just some of the fresh ingredients on the menu, complemented of course, by fine South Australian wines. Comfortable guest accommodation is provided in the original building and the newer, modern extension.

The hotel is located on the broad plains just to the west of the Flinders Ranges and makes a great base to explore this part of Outback Australia. The Farghers are one of the original pastoral families to the area, and also own neighbouring Nilpena Station. Guests will enjoy private access to the most scenic of ranges, magnificent sand dunes, the vast Lake Torrens, world renowned fossil reserves and have the opportunity to observe and participate in life on a working station.

While traversing the countryside, trace the footsteps of the pioneers, visit the local ruins and gain an insight into the lives of the local Aboriginies. Meet the local characters that make the Outback their home, try the legendary feral food and native cuisine that has made this hotel renowned and taste some of the local bush tucker collected in this area.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

Transfer to the Prairie Hotel. Relax and enjoy your surroundings before trying the famous FMG (feral mixed grill) tonight.

Day 2

This morning, explore the stunning Flinders Ranges with a private guide. Visit Lake Torrens and Nilpena Station and witness scenic locations used in the film ‘Rabbit Proof Fence’. See salt lakes, red sand dunes, historic station buildings, clay flats, saltbush plains and rugged creeks. Or head for the hills to explore steep valleys, ancient rock formations, secluded water holes and dramatic gorges. A gourmet lunch and refreshments are included on your tour.

Day 3

After breakfast, depart your oasis in the Outback and return to Adelaide.

PRICES Prices from £45 per person per night based on 2 people sharing. Flights to Australia vary in price considerably depending on date of departure though there are always good deals on quality airlines. Fares on Qantas/British Airways, for example can start from as little as £699 including taxes and fuel surcharges. From April 2008, Qantas will be introducing its all-new Premium Economy cabin. With dedicated check in, 40" seat pitch, extra width and enhanced meal service, all this extra luxury comes at a suprisingly low upgrade cost. Please ask your sales consultant for more details.