Melrose
Melrose is a tranquil, historical town situated on the foothills of Mount Remarkable.
Well known as a cycling hub, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the fresh air of the Southern Flinders Ranges. As well as bike trails around the Mount itself, both the Heysen and Mawson trails pass through town or you can take a ride along the Melrose to Wilmington Rail Trail, a 22 kilometre recreational trail following the old railway line.
Bush walkers can enjoy challenging themselves with the rewarding walk to the summit of Mount Remarkable, which showcases an incredible view of the area or the nature walk to Cathedral Rock. Just out of Melrose is the very scenic Show grounds, where you can camp among the gums.
It is also the oldest town in the Flinders Ranges, officially proclaimed in 1853. Its rich history includes copper mining origins and becoming a police outpost with officers patrolling up to the Northern Territory border.
Take a stroll around town and check out the historic buildings and landmarks including the Goyder’s Line Marker. The Melrose Courthouse Heritage Museum allows for a fascinating insight into South Australia’s history. Interpretative displays, many made by local students, share the stories of the pioneers and the history of the region’s oldest town. Other historic landmarks that need to be seen to be appreciated are Cathedral Rock and the War Memorial, located on a lookout with stunning views over the town.
For a unique and exhilarating experience, visit on the June long weekend when the Fat Tyre Festival rolls up. Melrose comes alive as people from all over Australia converge on Melrose to celebrate all things cycling. Melrose’s other cycling event, 18 Hours of Melrose, is held in September. On the October long week, the Mount Remarkable Show is another local event that promises a day filled with family fun. For more sporty travelers there is even a Tennis Carnival played over Easter every year.
Expect to find standard services in Melrose as well as some that are quite unique. Two local pubs, a cellar door and specialist mountain biking shop are extremely popular with tourists and locals alike. Melrose also has a service station, shop, Jackas Brewery, post office and both Anglican and Uniting Churches. Enjoy any one of a variety of accommodation options in Melrose, from a caravan park with cabins and camping sites to self-contained holiday units, hotel rooms and bed and breakfast.
Top Ten things to do in Melrose
To find out more visit www.melrose-mtremarkable.org.au