The Oodnadatta Track

1st August 2022

Left Maree heading for coward springs where apparently there’s a hot salt water pool 42 degrees.
We were blessed with 23 degrees and sunshine yesterday, a magnificent winters day. Bev got to sit outside and write. Our batteries were low so couldn’t put our heater on…dear Abbey didn’t want to start, however Brian worked his magic.
The road was rough, so lots of rattling. We did see a few cars decreasing pressurein their tyres which idoes nothing for getting better control on the road services. The landscape was diverse on either side only the road varying from completely barren, arid red dust to green shrubs. We encountered a group of cows lazily grazing. Then we couldn’t help but smile, as we drove closer one stood in the road, challenging us. When he saw a campervan coming the other direction he initially ran towards him then did a quick about turn. We were so lucky he didn’t charge us. We don’t think we will ever get used to the dust clouds every time someone races by.

Stopped at Alberie creek. Interesting statues made out of junk including 2 planes.

Passed some bright purple and yellow shrubs and salt lakes at Arbana ranges.
Stopped at Lake Eyre for breakfast overlooking the magnificent salt lakes.
Brian had fun filming with the drone before heading off on very bumpy dirt roads to Coward Springs.

There were many signs saying road hazardous, floodway or dips. We giggled when we saw a sign saying “This is a sign”. We stayed at the Eco retreat with an organic spa which was like warm in temperature, full of minerals and had a lovely pressure pump for your back. We visited the small museum displaying the Ghana trail. Beverley bought some organic dates and vegan date Anzac biscuits at their shop.

The shower needed to be heated by a wood fire. The whole resort was very rustic. We enjoyed snacks and a sundowner in a small field next to where we parked for the night.