8 days of waterhole hopping in the Northern Territory

Not all water holes are for swimming, but that doesn’t make them any less beautiful. Deep inside a rocky canyon 50km (31mi) from Alice Springs, you’ll find the sacred Standley Chasm, traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye meaning ‘gap of water’.

Venture just a 20-minute drive from Alice Springs to reach Simpsons Gap, where a split between two rugged red rock cliffs is mirrored in the reflection of a natural pool. Swimming here isn’t permitted, but the view is nothing short of sensational.

“We make beer here” is the straightforward motto of Alice Springs Brewing Co – and they sure know how to do it well. Visit their venue to chat with friendly locals, devour hearty pizzas and sample fresh ales, fruity beers and thick, rich stouts.

Check-in for a stay at the Doubletree by Hilton for a night of relaxation. Take a plunge in the pool, indulge in a meal and tipple at the on-site restaurant, or kick back and relax in the comfort of your stylish suite.

Just outside of Alice Springs you’ll find a plethora of waterholes ripe for exploring. Start your day in the best way with a dip in the aptly named Ellery Creek Big Hole, a large pool bordered by desert flora that cuts through an impressive gorge.

A 30-minute drive from Ellery Creek Big Hole is Glen Helen Gorge, where you’ll find views of Mount Sonder and a waterhole that’s home to native fish and birdlife. Slide into the water with an inflatable raft for a truly Insta-worthy moment.

Less than 25 minutes from Glen Helen Gorge is another unique spot for a splash. Step into the cool, deep waters of Redbank Gorge and take a moment to turn your face toward the immense red rock walls that surround you.

Begin the two-hour drive back towards Alice Springs and spend a night amid nature at Squeaky Windmill. Take in the outback scenery from your private balcony, rest in your glamping tent or grill up a feast beneath a blanket of stars.

Take to the rejuvenating thermal waters of Bitter Springs to bathe in warm natural spas beneath the shade of outstretched palms. The water here is remarkably clear, and you’re likely to spot an abundance of birdlife fluttering through the trees.

Another calming spring to tick off your bucket list is the Mataranka thermal pool. An easy 10-minute drive from Bitter Springs will land you at the waterhole, shaded by native paperbarks and next to several gentle walking trails.

At Katherine Hot Springs you’ll find a sprinkling of soothing pools, with surrounding greenery casting dappled light into their clear blue water. Hop between the different springs, then take advantage of the on-site barbeques for a picnic lunch.

Spend the night at the luxe Cicada Lodge, owned and operated by the local Jawoyn Aboriginal community. Take the chance to savour fresh native foods with dinner at the award-winning on-site restaurant.

There are dozens of ways you can explore the natural wonderland of Nitmiluk Gorge (also known as Katherine Gorge). Leliyn (Edith Falls) is worth a short hike for a refreshing dip in the lower and upper pools.

Join Nitmiluk Tours’ Malappar Traveller experience for some fun above the water. Paddle along the glassy gorge at your own pace, stopping to admire local wildlife, laze on the riverbanks and cool off with a swim.

Board a helicopter to soar above the ancient landscape of Nitmiluk National Park, soaking in the rugged views from a whole new perspective. Snap photos as you fly, grasping the size and beauty of this stunning ancient region.

Head to Top Didj Cultural Experience and Art Gallery, where acclaimed Aboriginal artist Manuel Pamkal will teach you how to paint using traditional symbols. After, listen to Manuel play the didgeridoo – it’s an only-in-Australia moment.

Twin cascades feed into a deep plunge pool at Florence Falls, where you can slide off the rocks to swim right up to the rushing water. Once you’ve splashed among the spray of the falls, wade above them in Florence Creek for stunning views over the waterhole below.

Along the same road as Florence Falls is the family-friendly Buley Rockhole – a chain of spa-like shallow pools linked by small cascades. Delight in the sights and sounds of the national park as the crisp, crystal-clear water trickles past you.

The most popular place to get wet in Litchfield National Park is Wangi Falls, where an accessible ramp leads to a large natural swimming pool fringed by rainforest. Pack a lunch and stretch out on the large, grassy picnic area after a cooling dip.

It might be hard to imagine shipping containers and luxury going hand in hand – but that’s what you’ll find at Hideaway Litchfield. Spend a night in the Tolmer suite and enjoy peaceful seclusion with uninterrupted views of bushland and wildlife.

Embark on a moderate 1.7km (one mile) hike along the fittingly named Sandy Creek to reach Sandy Creek Falls/Tjaynera Falls. Dig your toes into the pool’s soft floor as you listen to the sounds of a gently trickling waterfall and chirping birdlife.

Pay a visit to the intriguing spectacle of the Magnetic Termite Mounds. Dating back up to 100 years, these unique towering structures act as temperature-controlled homes to magnetic termites and are named for their unique structure.

Drive an hour to Berry Springs to find an oasis littered with wildflowers and greenery. Rest in the shallow pools as you take in the lush flora, then head out on leisurely bush walks to spot native birds and wildlife.

Embrace laid-back Top End living at Litchfield Tourist Park’s homestead. Cool off in the swimming pool, go for a stroll along the nearby Finnis River and meet new mates as you cook a hearty dinner around the barbecues.

Prefer your wild pools crowd-free? Then you’ll love Motor Car Falls, a magical swimming spot only accessible by foot. After the two-hour hike, chances are it will just be you and the resident turtles that float about in their shady pool.

If you’d prefer a shorter hike, head to Maguk Gorge (also known as Barramundi Gorge). Turquoise waters flow down gentle waterfalls, as if Mother Nature herself built a spa just for you. Keep an eye out for fish darting beneath your feet.

The next best thing to being in the water is being on top of it, so head back to Cooinda and join a sunset cruise on Yellow Water Billabong. Spot birds, buffalo and crocodiles as the landscape glistens with shades of gold.

Bed down in a crocodile-shaped hotel for the night at Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, where you’ll find cosy suites, a lavish pool and all the creature comforts for a blissful night’s rest. Grab dinner at the on-site Manjmukmuk Restaurant.

Step back in time on a guided two-hour tour of Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art Site. Wander past sheer cliffs before listening to local Aboriginal stories as you admire intricate rock art and preserved artefacts.

During the dry season, the 200m (656ft) tall cascade of Jim Jim Falls slows to a gentle trickle, allowing visitors to swim in the water below. A tricky drive in a 4WD followed by a short hike will reward you with a tranquil pool to unwind in.

Take to the skies to gaze in awe over the impressive waters of Twin Falls. The incredible duo of cascades are surrounded by sheer cliffs and dense bushland that makes for an unmissable spectacle, even in the dry season when they’re far more gentle.

After a long day of exploring, embrace the tranquillity of Cooinda Lodge. Tuck into dinner by the shaded pool, enjoy a tipple at the bar and stargaze from the balcony of your sustainable outback retreat.