Broken Hill is one of Australia’s most famous outback towns thanks to its sculptures, galleries and rich mining heritage.
In fact, one of the most photographed sites in all of outback Australia can be found on top of Sundown Hill in the Living Desert Reserve, just a 15 minute drive from the centre of the city. In 1993, artists from around the world began work on 12 sculptures, each made from 50 tonne sandstone blocks shipped from the Wilcannia region.
Today, these impressive artistic pieces stand tall atop the hill, surrounded by sweeping views of the outback landscape. At different times of day, the sculptures reflect different moods, however sunset however sunset is the best time to visit.
Nearby, the flora and fauna sanctuary is 180 hectares of land offering visitors the chance to see some of Australia’s most iconic native plants and animals, as well as learning about the Indigenous culture of the region.
Broken Hill is also Australia’s oldest mining town, with work dating back to the 1880s. Walking to the peak of town, you will find the Line of Lode Miner’s Memorial, a striking monument commemorating the lives of 800 miners lost over the years. Atop the summit of a hill, the memorial offers beautiful views across the city, but the freestanding rust-red steel form is itself something to behold. While here, make sure to check out the Big Bench, two and a half times the size of a regular bench and the perfect place for a family photo.
Volunteer guides run a two-hour Broken Hill heritage walking tour regularly, where guests will visit some of the most important landmarks and buildings. Learn more about the historic facades lining Broken Hill’s main streets, and hear little-known stories of the past.
For another unique tour, Wontanella is an Indigenous-run tour company working in Barkindji country just outside Broken Hill. There are many different tour options to choose from, each led by a knowledgeable Indigenous guide. On the Wontanella Wanderings tour, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the landscape near the Menindee Lakes, learning more about native flora and fauna, sites of significance, and the cultural importance of the area.
Any visit to Broken Hill should include a stay (or at least at sticky beak) at The Palace Hotel. The wall and staircase murals are jaw-dropping, and it’s where parts of the iconic film, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert was filmed.
To read about the best places to eat and drink in Broken Hill, click here.
