Two chilly days in Adelaide and we were ready for a little more adventure.

We thought a few days in Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges would be a perfect end to our Australian adventure.

Known for it ancient mountains, spectacular gorges and sheltered creeks Ikara National Park is one of the most spectacular parks in Australia. And there is a lot of competition!

All of this only 5 hours drive from Adelaide.

We set off early Thursday as we planned on visiting friends Kathy & Mark in the Clare Valley. They are house sitting – a new and rewarding experience since retiring.

On the way we stopped at Balaklava and lovely small town.

We drove through the vines of Clare and arrived at their house for the next few weeks. It’s charming & just outside the village of Clare. They look after ducks, chickens and dorper sheep. And are living in the comfortable old farm house.

House sitting is a great way to explore new areas – living rent free. Though it’s good if you like animals.

We headed off after lunch and headed west. We passed a few more little towns but couldn’t stop. We wanted to get to Wilpena before sundown.

This resort is joint owned b the SA Gov and the local Adnyamathanha Aboriginal people. They call the pound “Ikara” meaning “meeting place” or “place for initiations”.

We settled into our family room, had a glass of wine and planned our day tomorrow.

Dinner was soup in the restaurant which is part of the main resort building – built in 1947. it resembles a ski lodge!

We’re looking forward to exploring this area tomorrow. Driving in we were in awe of the beautiful mountains.