Perth is set on the banks of the Swan River. To its west is the Indian Ocean and popular white sandy surf beaches, to the east are the forests of the Darling Range. With its great climate, relaxed lifestyle and riverside setting Perth has plenty to offer visitors. Historic buildings, trendy beachside suburbs, the casino, the zoo as well as a miriad of malls, arcades, shops, cafe’s and restaurants. Kings Park and the Botanic Garden only minutes from the city offer a sweeping view of the Swan River and modern city skyline. Fremantle has National Trust-classified markets and a facsinating maritime history. Daytours of Perths surrounds include: Rottnest Island (access via ferry from Fremantle), Darling Range with its 80 hectares of jarrah forest, Swan Valley – a premier wine growing district and Yanchep National Park on the coast just to the north of Perth.
The Heartlands is a large band encompassing Perth – a golden landscape of grain, sheep and cattle farms, quaint historic townships and magnificent wildflowers. New Norcia to Perths north has interesting Spanish Colonial architecture and was built in 1846 by Benedictine monks.
The lush Avon Valley has forests, caves and fields of wildflowers. Wave Rock and Mulka’s Cave are popular attractions to Perths west.
Heading South of Perth explore The Great Southern region, a large and beautiful area running along the south coast of Western Australia. Lake Muir marks its western boundary and the Pallanup River marks the east. The region has five sub-regions, Albany, Denmark, Frankland River, Mount Barker and Porongurup. The main town is Albany, followed by Denmark, Porongurup, Mount Barker and Rocky Gully. Mt Barker is popular for wine tasting and is known for its delicious rieslings. Denmark has many local artisans producing excellent works of art and craft. Albany is the hub of this district and has a wide range of accommodation, restaurants and attractions. Visit Torndirrup National Park and Stirling Range National Park.
The South West has world-class wineries, ancient forests, surf beaches and one of the world’s most beautiful limestone cave systems. Scenic drives link historic towns like Margaret River, central to over 65 wineries in the region. Take the tramway through giant karri and marri forests at Pemberton, Tree Top walk at Walpole, swim with dolphins at Bunbury or walk the 2km long jetty at Busselton.
You will not want to rush when you see everything this beautiful part of Western Australia has to offer!