If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Australia, look no further than Coober Pedy. This small town in South Australia is known for being the opal capital of the world, as well as its unique underground dwellings.
YouTube Video 📹
Getting there 🚙
Here's the route map we followed to get to Coober Pedy.
💡 Make sure to fill up from Glendambo before heading as it's the last fuel station until Coober Pedy. It's also a good idea to carry a jerry can with fuel in it.
Upon arriving in Coober Pedy, you'll immediately notice the barren landscape and desert-like setting. The town gets its name from the Aboriginal term "kupa-piti," which means "white man's hole." This is a fitting name, as much of the town is actually built underground in an effort to escape the scorching desert heat.
You can also find our driving videos in the Kanku-Breakaways National Park from the below links:
- Coober Pedy to Breakaways National Park Full Drive - Part 1
- SALT & PEPPER, LONGEST FENCE, MOONPLAINS, Breakaways - Part 2
Places of interest 📍
As you explore Coober Pedy, you'll find a variety of underground homes, hotels, churches, and even an underground bar. These underground dwellings, known as "dugouts," are built into the hillsides and offer a cool respite from the hot desert climate.
In addition to its underground homes, Coober Pedy is also home to numerous opal mines. The town is known for producing some of the finest quality opals in the world, and many tourists come to Coober Pedy to try their luck at finding their own piece of the precious gemstone.
Aside from its underground dwellings and opal mines, Coober Pedy also has a number of other attractions to offer. The town is home to the Old Timers Mine, which offers tours of a working opal mine, as well as the Umoona Opal Mine and Museum, which showcases the history of opal mining in the area.
Overall Experience ✨
Overall, Coober Pedy is a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination that offers a glimpse into the unique culture and history of South Australia. Whether you're interested in underground dwellings, opal mining, or just want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Coober Pedy is definitely worth a visit.