Larrimah

Larrimah is a tiny, sun-baked outpost on the Stuart Highway in the Northern Territory, famous for its quirky charm, a legendary pub, and a peculiar mystery that has captured the imagination of travellers. This is the heart of the red centre, where the landscape stretches endlessly under a vast blue sky. The town, with a permanent population of around a dozen, is a classic outback stopover for those driving between Alice Springs and Darwin. The main draw is the Pink Panther-themed pub, a nod to the town's former name, but there's also a surprising array of oddities that make Larrimah an unforgettable detour.

Highlights & What to See

• The Larrimah Pub (Pink Panther Pub): This iconic watering hole is the heart of the town, plastered with Pink Panther memorabilia and serving cold beers and hearty pub meals. It's a surreal and welcoming place to swap stories with locals and fellow travellers.
• The Mystery of Paddy Moriarty: Larrimah gained global notoriety in 2017 when local resident Paddy Moriarty disappeared, leading to a baffling unsolved case. The story adds a layer of intrigue to the town, and you'll hear plenty of theories at the pub.
• Larrimah Museum: A small but fascinating collection of outback memorabilia, including old photographs, mining equipment, and exhibits on the town's history as a WWII staging post and telegraph station.
• The Daly Waters Pub: While technically a separate stop, this legendary pub (about 80 km north) is often combined with a Larrimah visit. It's famous for its eclectic decor of bras, banknotes, and business cards pinned to every surface.
• Stuart Highway Roadhouse: The roadhouse offers fuel, snacks, and a chance to stretch your legs. It's also a good spot to pick up local information and maps.
• Birdwatching at the Larrimah Billabong: Just out of town, a peaceful billabong attracts a variety of birdlife, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. It's a nice contrast to the dusty streets.

Suggested Time to Spend

Larrimah is a quick stop rather than a destination in itself. Most travellers spend 1–2 hours here: enough time for a cold drink at the pub, a browse of the museum, and a wander around the town's quirky sights. If you're driving the Stuart Highway, it makes a perfect lunch stop or a brief overnight stay if you want to experience the outback sunset and a few beers with the locals. For those intrigued by the Moriarty mystery, an overnight stay allows for deeper conversations and a chance to explore the surrounding area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Daly Waters (80 km north) – Home to the famous Daly Waters Pub, a must-visit for its eccentric atmosphere and history.
• Mataranka (200 km north) – Known for the thermal pools of Mataranka Hot Springs and Elsey National Park, a perfect spot for a swim and a picnic.
• Katherine (280 km north) – A larger town offering the stunning Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park), with boat cruises, canoeing, and bushwalking.
• Alice Springs (400 km south) – The hub of the Red Centre, with the iconic Larapinta Trail, Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service museum.
• Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve (300 km south) – A striking collection of giant granite boulders, perfect for a photo stop and short walk.

Please check official sources for current details.