First-timer's guide to Uluru: Must-do experiences in Australia's Red Centre

There's something truly special about visiting Uluru for the first time.

The plane hasn't touched down when the excitement begins to swell. I'm one of many who are frantically turning their head left to right, left to right, in the hope that I'll catch a glimpse of Uluru. The captain announces that passengers on the left-hand side of the plane will get to see the monolith first before we swing around for those of us on the right to capture the perfect shot.

It's the first time that I lay eyes on the 348 metre-tall rock, which will become a constant for my jam-packed trip. After we land, I'm whisked away to Sails in the Desert - Ayers Rock Resort's luxury hotel. A quick refresh after the two-hour, 48-minute flight and it's off to the experiences that will teach a first-timer about this spiritual place.

Walking up to the dune-top platform, with the perfect view of Uluru and the lollipop-like sunset, it feels like I'm in a fairytale. Gin and cucumber cocktail in hand, I try to capture as many pictures as possible before the sun sets and the celebrated show begins.

Sharing the Mala story through 1100 drones, Wintjiri Wiru lights up the sky and fills the vast surrounds with the narration of what is happening 200 metres above. Laser lights and projections on the trees make it feel as though there is a body of water separating you and the distant rock.

The experience, which was introduced in May last year, is operated by Voyages Indigenous Tourism in partnership with the Anangu people, a blending of tradition with contemporary technology that helps to bring culture to life.

"Out here, the Anangu are really keen to share culture and we're very fortunate," says Voyages chief executive Matthew Cameron-Smith. "Often their language is not written down, all the stories are passed down through song, through art and through dance. Combining all those elements and the education it brings to people is enlightening for many when they come here."

While using innovative technology to tell ancient stories is the way of the future, it's not the only way to connect to our nation's spiritual heartland.

I set my alarm for a pre-dawn wake up, and resist the urge to hit snooze ... five times. I still haven't fully woken up when we reach our first stop for the day: Bruce Munro's Field of Light.

It's almost impossible to describe the beauty and magnitude of 50,000 spindles of light illuminating the ground below Uluru. I'm served a warm spiced chai that cuts through the cool air before I start to wander through the vast field.

There's a silence among the group as we shuffle through the soft, red dirt, taking in the vibrant colours that cover more than seven football fields. The sun begins to rise and I see Uluru in its morning glory as we edge closer for the first time.

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As we enter the national park, our guide begins to share with us some of the Anangu's tjukurpa, which in Pitjantjatjara refers to the laws and way of life. But it's not until we start the two kilometre Mala walk that I fully understand the sacredness of Uluru. To touch, it's cold, with the red hues a stark contrast to the vibrant blue sky and green shrubs below. Up close, you can see the various indentations that have evolved over thousands of years.

A common theme during my time in central Australia is the significance of art in storytelling, and I'm given the opportunity to learn more through Maruku Arts. Guided by Anangu woman Evelyn Ailek, I learn how stories have been preserved and shared through symbols and art for thousands of years.

"It makes her happy to talk about her bush medicine, artwork and telling some of her tjukurpa stories through her artwork," Evelyn shares with me through a translator. "And it makes her happy to pass it on to the tourists and visitors out here to share learning."

With my own piece of art to take home, I head back to the hotel to sample one of the resort's newest experiences - a native high tea. Yulara saltbush caramel Tim Tam, finger lime almond tart and, of course, lemon myrtle Northern Territory crocodile tarts are just some of the delicacies on the menu that is set to launch on August 1.

With so much to see, do and learn, it's impossible to leave Uluru feeling empty. From up close and afar, I'm able to immerse myself in an ancient culture and leave feeling more connected to our country and its history than ever before. Striking the perfect balance between too much and too little is easy in this iconic destination that offers something for the young and old. But I promise myself I'll be back to experience more that the wonderful Uluru has to offer.

Getting there: Virgin Australia has just launched new direct flights from Melbourne and Brisbane. Jetstar and Qantas also fly direct from Sydney. Prices vary.

Staying there: Accommodation at Sails in the Desert - Ayers Rock Resort ranges from campground options (from $43 per night) to hotel-style rooms and serviced apartments (from $475 per night).

Explore more: ayersrockresort.com.au

The writer was a guest of Virgin Australia and Sails in the Desert - Ayers Rock Resort.