Situated at the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, Ayers Rock (or Uluru, as it is known to the Aboriginal people) is reached via a three-hour flight from Sydney or Melbourne. A World Heritage site, the immense sandstone outcrop measures well over 6 miles in circumference and rises 2,800 feet from the flat desert floor. Dramatically changing color throughout the day, it is particularly magical at sunrise and sunset. The area’s other astounding geologic formation is the Olgas (Kata Tjuta), a conglomeration of huge rocks hiding sensational chasms and gorges. It is worth the trouble to arise before dawn. When the ancient landscape is just waking up, it feels especially tranquil and mystical, and the play of light on Ayers Rock is unforgettable.