South-West Wanderer

Perth sits on the west coast and is Australia’s sunniest capital city. Soak up the sunshine at one of the white sand beaches, take a walk in leafy Kings Park - one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, or visit nearby Rottnest Island to meet the resident quokkas. For a more cultural experience head to the museum and gallery precinct, or go a little further afield to Swan Valley to experience its vineyards, art, food and history.

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside customs exit and delivered to your Perth accommodation.

Rottnest Island is situated 19 kilometers off the coast of Perth. Getting to the island is easy as ferries depart regularly from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty, Fremantle, and Hillarys Boat Harbour - or you can get there by air with a seaplane, air taxi, or helicopter.
Rottnest Island offers visitors a casual atmosphere, picturesque scenery, and a rich cultural heritage to discover, find out why the local Noongar people called the island Wadjemup which means ‘place across the water where the spirits are’. 
Cycling is the best way to get around the island or there’s a hop-on/hop-off bus service that regularly runs around the island, stopping at some of the more secluded beaches and surf breaks.
With 63 of the prettiest beaches you’re likely to see anywhere, 20 beautiful bays, and many coral reefs and wrecks, Rottnest Island is a marine paradise. You can spend your days exploring some of the most spectacular swimming spots, diving, and surfing breaks in the world, and a must-do is exploring the snorkel trails, with over 135 species of tropical fish and 25 species of coral to discover.
There’s plenty to experience out of the water too, from meeting the world-famous Quokka to exploring the excellent bike and walking trails that traverse the island. You can also discover the island’s military history, as you explore underground tunnels, the lighthouse, Oliver Hill, and Bickley Battery. There are tours on the island which include a tour by bike, boat, or Segway, offering insightful experiences, from wildlife encounters to learning about Aboriginal heritage.

See the whole of Rottnest in a day with a return ferry trip combined with a full-island bus tour. The 90-minute tour visits the island’s most spectacular locations, with insightful commentary shining a light on "Rotto’s" unique flora, fauna, history, and culture. The bus stops at two key vantage points – Wadjemup Lighthouse and the rugged West End, where passengers can hop off, take a short walk, and soak up the views. You might even meet a quokka or two along the way.

You may like to start your day with a stroll through the city streets to take in the abundance of street art. Taking its place as Australia's second street art city, streets and laneways are decorated with funky murals and sculptures highlighting Perth in all its colour and diversity. Check out the city's street art map online to immerse yourself in the mesmerising art, stopping for coffee at any one of the trendy cafes and espresso bars scattered through the city. Head to Kings Park (Kaarta Koomba) for an authentic experience of Indigenous culture. The base of Kings Park was an important ceremonial and dreaming area for Aboriginal males, while The Boodja Gnarning Walk takes you through a diverse range of flora which were used for survival by the Noongar people, and captures this knowledge through interpretive signage and artworks. For a relaxing afternoon, catch the train down to Fremantle and wander through heritage listed buildings, stumble into the oldest record store in Australasia, and have a tipple at a one of the many breweries and much-loved local haunts. The nearby South Beach comes alive in the evenings with impromptu performances such at tight roping and fire twirling, so pull up a patch of grass on the foreshore at sunset with a local brew in hand to end the day in a quintessentially 'Freo' way.

There is no better way to combine a delicious lunch and a wonderful cruise on the magnificent Swan River than on this Fremantle Lunch Cruise. This unique cruise includes a buffet of Western Australia’s abundant seasonal fresh produce as well as full bar facilities on board.
Enjoy Captain's commentary during the cruise downstream to the port city of Fremantle. Upon the return journey, you are invited to enjoy the hot buffet complimented by seasonal salads, all followed by a scrumptious dessert buffet.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. Speak to the team to learn more!

The journey to Margaret River takes approximately three and a half hours by car. Take the Kwinana Freeway out of Perth, this later becomes Forrest Highway. Head towards Bunbury, then onto Busselton.
Busselton's calm turquoise bay is the perfect place to stretch your legs. Take a walk or train ride over the Indian Ocean on the 1.8km (1.1 mile) long jetty - the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere. Visit the Busselton Museum, Old Courthouse or the beautiful St Mary's Church for a taste of what the area was like in the 1800s, and then treat yourself to lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants before continuing on your drive. Margaret River is just 50km (31 miles) south of Busselton and when you start to see vineyards – you’re almost there.
Margaret River is one of Western Australia's most famous wine regions. Over the last 50 years, it has reached internationally-acclaimed status specialising in cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, with nearly 100 cellar doors to experience.

The Underwater Observatory tour starts with a relaxing train ride on the Stocker Preston Express along the length of the Jetty with 360-degree views across Geographe Bay. Descending 8 metres below the ocean's surface, this tour then explores the natural wonders that lie beneath the Jetty where it’s piles create Australia’s greatest artificial reef host to 300 different marine species with an inspiring forest of vividly-coloured tropical and sub-tropical corals, sponges, fish and invertebrates. 13 underwater Sculptures have been built to form a snorkel trail for everyone to enjoy.

Margaret River is a town that perfectly encapsulates the surrounding nature, arts, and culture in its very essence. The town itself exudes an indelible buzz with its perfect mix of artisan stores, galleries, street art and diverse bars and restaurants, yet is surrounded by the serenity of tall trees, open ocean, rocky cliffs and undulating plains across which vineyards stretch in every direction. Arguably, the region is best known for its world-renowned wine region and showcases an abundance of award-winning wines and friendly cellar doors. But this isn't the only attraction on offer - the town also has a prominent surf culture and some of the best surf conditions in the world. Home to the Margaret River Pro, Surfers Point is the iconic spot to either catch a wave, or simply grab some fish and chips and watch the spectacular western sunset from the lawn amphitheatre. If you are in town on a Saturday morning, you can't miss the local farmer's market. With a smorgasbord of local produce to choose from, whether you prefer to cook or pack picnic goodies for your day ahead the offerings will be sure to get your tummy grumbling.

This is the tour for people who don't like tours! Let Margaret River treat you to a day of luxury adventure as you travel down stream in canoe, enjoy a coffee on the beach, taste local wines and enjoy the epic views of the Indian Ocean from a 4WD. Spot Australian wildlife and wildflowers, and reflect on Aboriginal history dating back more than 50,000 years as you are taken on a journey where you won't get wet, dirty or fall in any water.  

Margaret River is home to incredible hiking trails, surrounded by national parks with pristine coastlines and rugged granite outcrops. Take a short drive out to Gnarabup beach and enjoy a morning walk along this pristine coast and the views from Gnarabup lookout. Stop for a coffee at the local café and if you continue a little further north, you will find the world-renowned Surfer's Point, a great spot to sit and watch the surfers in some impressive waves. You can also drive 30 minutes north to Yallingup to experience the local indigenous culture and the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Take to the cellar doors for an afternoon of tasting premium wines and snacking on platters full of local produce. With over 90 award-winning cellar doors in the area, you will be spoiled for choice. If wine isn't your priority, you can spend an afternoon amidst the magic of the area's ancient caves, or the majestic Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste lighthouses.

The Margaret River region in Western Australia is a captivating destination blending world-class wineries, gourmet food, and stunning natural landscapes. Renowned globally for its wine production, the area boasts over 200 boutique vineyards producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blends. Visitors can enjoy immersive cellar door experiences, like the Voyages Estate - Estate tour and Lunch including wine-paired degustation's, and sampling locally crafted delicacies like cheeses, olive oils, and artisanal chocolates.

Beyond the vineyards, Margaret River is a treasure trove of natural beauty. The towering karri forests of Boranup are perfect for peaceful walks or photography, while the rugged coastline offers dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and iconic surf breaks like Surfers Point. Adventurers can explore the Cape to Cape Track, a breathtaking 123-kilometer walking trail stretching between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, offering panoramic ocean views and encounters with unique wildlife. You can also drive 30 minutes north to Yallingup to experience the local indigenous culture. 

For those intrigued by geology, the region's limestone caves, such as Jewel, Lake, and Mammoth Caves, offer awe-inspiring underground adventures. Marine life enthusiasts can take a whale-watching tour during the migration season or snorkel in the calm, turquoise waters of secluded beaches like Hamelin Bay.

Margaret River is also a vibrant cultural hub, home to art galleries, local markets, and festivals celebrating food, wine, and music. The charming town of Margaret River itself serves as a great base, with boutique shops, cafes, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Whether you're savouring award-winning wines, exploring pristine natural wonders, or relaxing on unspoiled beaches, Margaret River offers an unforgettable blend of indulgence and adventure. It’s a must-visit destination for travellers seeking the best of Australia’s food, wine, and wilderness.

The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is one of the most popular attractions in the region. Visitors to the top balcony of the lighthouse tower are rewarded with breathtaking ocean views. With an easy climb of 59 stairs, this lighthouse is accessible even for small children.
The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and cottages reveal the fascinating maritime history of the Cape region. Hear tales of ships wrecked off the formidable coastline and the hardships of life as a lighthouse keeper, and gain insight into the functions of this working lighthouse. Discover more about native flora and fauna and the importance of the local ocean currents - also used by humpback whales during their migration and breeding season.

Begin your experience with a 'Welcome to Country' by a Wadandi Cultural Custodian, who will then take you for a short (200m round trip) guided walk around Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse before entering a private meeting place for an interactive cultural session which may include an artefact and tool display and didgeridoo music session. Hear local stories and learn about the connection the local Wadandi people have to the Cape to Cape region.

Ngilgi Cave is located near Yallingup, at the northern end of the Cape to Cape region. European discovery occurred in 1899, with the cave formerly being known as Yallingup Cave. This exquisitely decorated cave, with its stunning stalactites, stalagmites, helictites and beautifully coloured shawls, was Western Australia’s first tourist attraction. The Ancient Lands Experience is an immersive tour that takes you both above and below ground. Above, you will journey along a boardwalk that brings together the cultural connection, native flora and fauna of the land, and below ground, you will uncover the beauty of the Ngiilgi Cave. As you descend into its depths at your own pace, marvel at the cave's stunning stalactites, stalagmites, helictites and beautifully coloured shawls with guides stationed along the way to impart to you their knowledge of the ancient caves.

Eagles Heritage was established in 1987 and is one of the largest wildlife centres in Australia dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured and displaced birds of prey. This encounter will provide you with the opportunity to meet and interact with eagles, hawks, falcons and owls and marvel at their unique adaptations and natural behaviours. A gentle hike on one of the native forest trails will allow you to experience the native bushland sanctuary at your own pace and possibly even spot some of its resident birds of prey.

Lake Cave is seriously spectacular. It’s set in lush karri forest, has a dramatic sinkhole entrance and a ‘suspended table’ crystal decoration hanging above a permanent lake. The most actively dripping cave in the region, it’s remarkably peaceful hearing the drips.
It’s the smallest but deepest cave, with 325 stairs in all. The stairways are designed so that visitors only have to tackle a moderate number of stairs between rests – and the scenery from the first to the last step is your stunning reward.

The journey from Margaret River to Perth takes approximately three and a half hours by car. Follow the Bussell Highway and State Route 10 towards Busselton. Busselton's calm turquoise bay is the perfect place to stretch your legs. Take a walk or train ride over the Indian Ocean on the 1.8km (1.1 mile) long jetty - the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere. Visit the Busselton Museum, Old Courthouse or the beautiful St Mary's Church for a taste of what the area was like in the 1800s, and then treat yourself to lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants before continuing on your drive. Continue your journey following Bussell Highway to National Route 1, head towards Bunbury, and then follow Forest Highway onto Perth. Perth is the capital and largest city of Western Australia, it has been ranked as one of the world's most livable cities. You can enjoy soft-sand beaches, scenic parks as well as a thriving metropolis of small bars, creative restaurants and street art. If you have a time to spare before you reach city of Perth, you can visit Coogee beach, which is a southern coastal suburb of Perth. It is a popular beach destination, with white sand and crystal clear water, it has beautiful natural settings and is blessed with spectacular sunsets. 

Explore more of Perth before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.