Ayers Rock Resort is not only in the township of Yulara -- it is the township. Located about 30km (19 miles) from the Rock, outside the national park boundary, it is the only place to stay. It is an impressive contemporary complex, built to a high standard, efficiently run, and attractive -- all things you can end up paying an arm and a leg for. Because everyone either is a tourist or lives and works here, it has a village atmosphere -- with a supermarket; a bank; a post office; a newsdealer; babysitting services; a medical center; a beauty salon; several gift, clothing, and souvenir shops; a place to buy beer; and a gas station.
You have a choice of seven places to stay within the complex, from hotel rooms and apartments to luxury and basic campsites. In keeping with this village feel, no matter where you stay, even in the campground, you are free to use all the pools, restaurants, and other facilities of every hostelry, except the exclusive Sails in the Desert pool, which is reserved for Sails guests.
Voyages Hotels & Resorts manages Ayers Rock Resort, Alice Springs Resort, and Kings Canyon Resort. You can book accommodations for all three properties through the central reservations office in Sydney (tel. 1300/134 044 in Australia, or 02/8296 8010; fax 02/9299 2103; www.voyages.com.au). Ask about packages that include one, two, or all three resorts. Prices tend to work out cheaper per night if you stay more than 1 night, too. Warning: Shop around for special deals on the Internet and with travel agencies. High season is July through November. Book well ahead.
A tour desk, same-day dry-cleaning and laundry service, and babysitting are all available at each hostelry and campground.
Inexpensive -- Moderately priced cabins and inexpensive bunkhouse and dorm beds are available at the Outback Pioneer Hotel and Lodge.
