White Cliffs Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and culture of White Cliffs in Outback New South Wales with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to White Cliffs

Nestled in the heart of Outback New South Wales, White Cliffs is a charming town with a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its unique underground homes and stunning opal mines, White Cliffs has become a popular tourist destination in recent years.

In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and much more. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, White Cliffs has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in White Cliffs

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Underground Motel: Stay in an authentic underground home and experience the area’s unique way of life.
  • The Opal Miners’ Heritage Walk: Take a stroll through the town’s opal mining history and learn more about the industry that put White Cliffs on the map.
  • John Murray Art Gallery: Admire the works of local artist John Murray, known for his colorful paintings of the Outback.

Natural Attractions of White Cliffs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Big Open Sky: Experience unobstructed views of the sky and stars at night, a breathtaking sight you won’t find in most cities.
  • The color-streaked white cliffs: Admire the stunning rock formations that give the town its name.
  • The Bineri-Garrawilla Ranges: Explore the rugged terrain and natural beauty of this remote area, located just a short distance from the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of White Cliffs

  • The Mount Gurney Trail: A challenging 5.2 km trek that offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The White Cliffs Loop: A 10 km bike ride that takes you through the town’s main attractions and landmarks.
  • The Bineri-Garrawilla Ranges: A 16 km hike that explores the rugged terrain and natural beauty of the remote area.

Best Things to Do in White Cliffs: Activities and Tours

  • Opal Mining Tours: Experience the thrill of mining for opals and learn about the town’s mining history.
  • Swimming and Relaxing by the Pool: Take a dip in the town’s public pool or soak up the sun at one of its several recreational areas.
  • Stargazing: Witness the stars in all their glory with a guided tour or on your own under the Big Open Sky.

Week-Long Itinerary for White Cliffs

Day Itinerary
1 Arrival and check-in at the Underground Motel
2 Opal Mining Tour in the morning, followed by the Bineri-Garrawilla Ranges hike
3 Swimming and relaxation by the pool
4 Mount Gurney Trail hike, followed by a visit to the Opal Miners’ Heritage Walk
5 Day trip to the nearby town of Wilcannia
6 Stargazing tour in the evening
7 Departure from White Cliffs

Food and Drink Scene of White Cliffs

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kangaroo Steak: Try this local specialty at one of the town’s restaurants for a true Outback experience.
  • Emerald Salad: Made with fresh local produce, this salad is a great way to experience the area’s flavors.
  • Opal Ridge Wine: Savor the delicious, locally made wine amid the stunning surroundings.

Local Beverages

  • Opal Ridge Wine: A locally produced wine that pairs perfectly with the area’s cuisine.
  • Cooper’s Beer: A refreshing brew that is perfect for a hot day.

Where to Stay in White Cliffs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Underground Motel: Sleep in an authentic underground home and experience the town’s unique way of life.
  • White Cliffs Hotel: A traditional hotel with cozy rooms and great amenities.
  • Hostels and Guesthouses: Several affordable options are available for budget travelers, including the White Cliffs Outback Resort and the Underground Backpackers.

What to Buy in White Cliffs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Opal Jewelry: The town is known for its opal mining industry, and a piece of opal jewelry is a great way to bring home a unique souvenir.
  • Local Art: The John Murray Art Gallery is a great place to find colorful, one-of-a-kind pieces.
  • Local Produce: Take home some fresh produce, like citrus fruits or local honey, to savor the flavors of the region long after your visit.

Local Culture and Customs of White Cliffs

  • White Cliffs is a town with a strong mining history, and the local culture is closely tied to the mining industry.
  • The town’s population is diverse, with many people from Aboriginal and European backgrounds.
  • Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs, including the traditional owners of the land on which White Cliffs is built.

Best Time to Visit White Cliffs

The best time to visit White Cliffs is in the cooler months, from March to September. The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching over 100°F (38°C).

Do’s and Don’ts of White Cliffs

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take part in guided tours or activities to learn more about the area’s history and culture.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Don’t:

  • Remove any rocks or minerals from the area without permission.
  • Litter or damage the town’s natural surroundings.
  • Ignore the local customs and etiquette.

Safety and Health

Safety in White Cliffs

  • Visitors should be aware of the extreme heat and take precautions when spending time outdoors.
  • The town is generally safe, but visitors should take standard safety precautions, especially when hiking in remote areas.

Health in White Cliffs

  • Visitors should be careful to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun due to the high temperatures.
  • Medical facilities can be limited, so it’s recommended to bring any necessary medications or first aid supplies with you.

Getting to White Cliffs: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near White Cliffs

  • Broken Hill Airport is the closest airport to White Cliffs, located approximately 310 km away.

Bus Stations Near White Cliffs

  • Bus services from Adelaide, Sydney, and Brisbane service the nearby town of Wilcannia, which is located approximately 80 km away from White Cliffs.

Other Options

  • Driving is a popular option, with the town accessible via a well-maintained sealed road.
  • For those seeking an adventure, there are also guided tours and 4WD adventures available that include transfers to and from White Cliffs.

How to Get Around in White Cliffs

The town is small enough to explore by foot, but car rentals are available for those seeking more flexibility. Guided tours and transportation are also available for visitors looking to explore further afield.

Where to Go Next from White Cliffs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The nearby town of Wilcannia offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial history and is home to several important historical sites.
  • The Mutawintji National Park, located approximately 250 km away, is a stunning natural area with fantastic hiking and scenic views.
  • The towns of Broken Hill and Silverton, located approximately 290 km away, offer a great mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

White Cliffs is a true hidden gem in the heart of the Australian Outback, offering visitors a chance to experience the unique culture and stunning natural beauty of this remote region. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, White Cliffs has something for everyone and should definitely be on your travel bucket list.

Solar Plant Solar Plant Entrance to PJ Underground B&B Entrance to PJ Underground B&B Opal fields at White Cliffs Opal fields at White Cliffs