Surrounded by the MacDonnell Ranges, the township of Alice Springs is a great base from which to explore its surrounding natural wonders. The town itself defies most travelers' expectations, combining a strong sense of outback history with all the convenience of modern facilities. The original site of Alice was actually at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, four kilometers north of the city centre. Despite its beginning as a remote outpost, present day Alice is well appointed and culturally rich thanks to the influence of visitors from all over the world. It has excellent restaurants, an energetic nightlife and hosts a calendar of quirky and exciting events all year round.