Life at the Prairie

Welcome to Australia’s most-awarded Outback hotel. 

Why do people fly in from all over the world to stay or eat here? See for yourself…

The Prairie Hotel perfectly blends Outback adventure with a slice of city luxury - and a lot of style.

Parachilna has an official population of just seven but it's remoteness adds to the pleasure of its one and only hotel. The Prairie Hotel is truly an oasis on the plains of the Flinders Ranges, some of the most ancient and fascinating formations on Earth. From the hotel, you can enjoy magnificent views of both the Ranges and the vast red desert plains sweeping toward Lake Torrens. Inside the hotel, you’ll find great character, charm and creature comforts – topped off with superb cuisine. And all this still only 30 minutes drive from the famous Parachilna and Brachina Gorges of the Flinders Ranges National Park

Exactly where is it and how to get there

You'll find Parachilna approximately 470 km north of Adelaide, South Australia on the edge of the Flinders Ranges National Park. The nearest towns are Hawker – a pastoral community 90km south, and Leigh Creek, a mining community 66km to the north.

Click on map to zoom in.

Parachilna is not on the State bus routes,  but there's a sealed bitumen road all the way. You don't need a 4 Wheel Drive.  If you don’t have a car, the Oz Experience bus system calls here two to three times a week, or join a tour. You can also take commercial flights to Leigh Creek, Hawker or we'll pick you up from the nearby community airstrip or helicopter landing pad at the back of the hotel.

Ever tried emu?

Our hotel restaurant is renowned for a delicious and innovative menu of Australian native and Flinders Feral Foods, You can sample truly Australian foods such as emu, kangaroo, or wallaby combined with native herbs, fruits and vegetables sourced locally whenever possible. One of our most popular bar menu items is the "Feral mixed grill". The restaurant is open all day, every day of the year.

Unique accommodation – conserving character and energy

In 1997, extensive renovations were undertaken, retaining the historic building and its special character. The award-winning architecture incorporates design innovations and energy efficiencies to deal with desert living.

We offer a range of alternative accommodation in and near the Parachilna township. These suit the budget traveller; those looking for a romantic weekend escape; maybe a huge celebration with a group of friends; or families looking for a true Outback experience.

People make the Prairie Hotel special

You never know who may be at the hotel - film crews with movie stars, coal miners in from the dust, locals on their night out, romantics making wedding proposals, city dwellers yearning for the country life - a great mix which makes for a memorable time. Bring a story, bring a friend, lover or the whole family and discover the pleasures of the Prairie.