If you’re planning to explore the Flinders ranges, be sure to stop by Quorn – It’s well worth the visit. As you drive along the highway the landscape transforms and you’ll see the majestic ranges rise in the distance. Eventually the road curves and you’ll be driving alongside the rolling hills. Look out for Emus! I saw a couple of them by the roadside plotting their escape onto the other side (of the road).
The Quorn Caravan Park
The caravan park is a great place to stay. It offers a range of accommodation options from self-sufficient cabins to powered and unpowered campsites. I stayed in a cabin here. But, pitching a tent and sleeping under the star-filled sky on a pleasant night would feel like a dream. The caravan park is right in town and only a short stroll away from the town centre. It also has the added security of boom gates that operate via a guest access code.
Flinders Ranges Visitor Centre
If you arrive in town before 4 PM drop in at the visitors centre to plan your trip. The staff are lovely and genuinely interested in helping you enjoy your trip. They offer valuable advice about the region, inform you of any trail or look-out closures and recommend the best activities in the area. They will also give you a map/information booklets about any trails you’d like to visit in the region. Be sure to browse their beautiful selection of souvenirs and trinkets while you’re there.
Coffee at the Scruffy Fella
When in Quorn, the Scruffy Fella café is a must-visit. Whether you’re after a great coffee, a cool cocktail, a relaxing candle or a range of beard oils..? the Scruffy Fella has got you covered. The café’s interior is cozy and stylish plus their iced coffee was a delicious treat to start my day. This unexpected gem adds a modern touch to the country town charm of Quorn.
Dutchman’s Stern Conservation Park
Quorn has a few great hiking options. The Dutchman’s Stern Loop is one of the most popular hikes in this region. It’s a 10km loop and can be strenuous on a hot summer day, but the views are well worth it. Find out more about this hike in my blog post about 2 Must-Do Hikes in the Southern Flinders Ranges.
Quorn Heritage walk
Walk around the lonely streets and stop to be drawn back in time by the historic architecture. You can pick up a map from the visitor center or download an online map to read about the significance of each of the sites along this self-guided walking tour. The Quorn War Memorial is one such site – pictured below is an intricate wire sculpture of a soldier and a plaque dedicated to the brave soldiers who lost their lives in war.
Quorn Silo Light Show
The Quorn Silo Light Show is a must-watch. Pack some snacks, a blanket or a warm jacket – The nights get cold even in summer. There are limited benches, so consider bringing your own outdoor chairs or picnic mats. Otherwise, head over a little early and save your spot. Frankly, the available benches are uncomfortable to sit on for extended periods. So, if I ever visit again I’d bring along my camping chair. The main show begins at sundown and runs for an hour. This is followed by a display of photographs and artwork submitted by community members that loop for another 2 hours.
It’s enchanting to sit under the stars and watch the animations dance across the silos. Transporting you through the rich history of the town – The animations tell informative stories about the droughts and floods that impacted the region, the native land and vegetation and the adoption of innovations of the time like the steam engine.
All in all Quorn is a charming little country town that makes you feel like you stepped back in time. The quiet town has a small population of 1,232 people (as of 2021) and is perfect for peaceful strolls to slow down and appreciate the beauty of another time. If you love admiring old-world architecture and learning about the history of country towns then don’t miss this destination.