Experience the majesty of the red desert in Broken Hill

Best known as the "Silver City" because of the rich deposits of silver and other minerals that are mined there, Broken Hill, is also often thought of as the capital of the outback. The locals jokingly refer to their city as the "biggest city in the middle of nowhere." Actually, that is a good description and is one of Broken Hill's most alluring attractions.

If you get the feeling like you've seen Broken Hill before, it's probably because you have. It is one of the most photographed and filmed regions in Australia and has been featured in over 140 filims over the years, including blockbusters like Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Mad Max 2.

Because the mining industry is so big in Broken Hill, you might get the mistaken feeling that it is a "Wild West" style outback town. If that's what you think, you will be pleasantly surprised to discover that the town is home to many of Australia's finest artists. The spectacular landscape has attracted and inspired artists for generations and their works are on display throughout the city. Once you have been to Broken Hill, you will understand why so many artists come there to stay.

Many visitors remark that there seems to be something mystical about the outback around Broken Hill. It may be because you feel like you have stepped outside of time when you behold the vast red desert spread out before you. As you watch a kangaroo hop in the distance, you could easily be an aboriginal looking at the same thing, some 40,000 years ago. At the same time that time vanishes, the vastness of the landscape and the brilliance of the colours seems to transport you through space.

An absolute must-see attraction in Broken Hill is the Living Desert Reserve. The huge reserve was created less than 20 years ago to showcase the natural beauty of the outback, allowing visitors to safely explore the desert. Included in the reserve is a Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, where predatory animals are kept out by means of an electric fence.

Also within the Living Desert Reserve is the Sculpture Symposium. Situated on the top of a hill in the middle of the reserve, it features 12 magnificent contemporary sculptures carved out of the natural stone on the hill. It is impossible to come away from a walk on the Cultural Walk Trail feeling anything less than inspired.

You may become so enamoured of the outback in Broken Hill, you will want to sleep under the stars rather than indoors. This is easily done. One very popular campground is located in Mutawintiji National Park, where you can see some amazing 8000 year old examples of aboriginal rock art. If you prefer to stay at an indoor Broken Hill accommodation, you can do so in style, so there's no excuse for not visiting "the biggest city in the middle of nowhere."

Take a few days off, find Broken Hill accommodation, things to do and other travel related information about the area on bookitnow.com.au. Or visit our Australia blog for more Australian holiday ideas.