Whether you stay in town or venture out, Alice Springs has so much to offer the curious visitor.
Story Terri Cowley Photos Peter Pap
There are more than 50 accommodation options in Alice itself, but just out of town, with fantastic views of the West MacDonnell Ranges, Michelle Koerner has created an earthy sanctuary on her 11.5ha property. She launched the Squeakywindmill with two glamping tents 11 years ago, adding a third tent seven years later. “It took a decade to find the property,” Michelle says. “I knew I needed a view.”
She and husband Robert Averay moved to Alice from SA for a two-year stint and ended up staying 40 years. With a background in bush nursing, Michelle was able to extend her care into tourism: “I like to make people feel comfortable and feel good.”
Michelle’s attention to detail is evident in the tent furnishings, comfortable beds, internal bathrooms and the welcome basket with fresh delicacies. But it’s definitely the ranges that upstage everything else, lighting up behind you at sunrise and sunset. Whether relaxing on the tent balcony while cooking a barbecue, or joining other guests at the communal fireplace, visitors have the best seats to an incredible show backlit by some of the starriest skies you’ll ever see.
“I want people to realise that Alice Springs is all about exquisite country – it sells itself,” Michelle says. “And we have amazing people in Alice Springs.”
This story excerpt is from issue #165
Outback Magazine: Feb/Mar 2026
