Start your adventure in Perth and visit Rottnest Island, a sanctuary for native wildlife. Pick up your rental car and head south on a road trip. Your first stop will be the famous 1.8-kilometer-long Busselton Jetty, where you can witness marine life from the 8-meter underwater observatory. In the afternoon, arrive at the world-renowned Margaret River region and immerse yourself in the local Indigenous culture with a twilight didgeridoo tour of Ngilgi Cave. The next day, embark on a luxury guided tour of the region, tasting local wines and visiting secret local spots. You'll have a free day to explore the region at your leisure or opt for more adventures. Journey along the coastal route to Albany, stopping to see the majestic Valley of the Giants tree top walk on the way. Take a guided tour of the Granite Skywalk in Porongurup National Park near Albany for spectacular views before making your way to Esperance the following day. Esperance features an abundance of incredible natural wonders, which you can experience with a 4WD beach tour, an optional flight over the pink salt lakes system, and a wildlife cruise through the Recherche Archipelago. On your way back to Perth, make an overnight stop in Hyden, home to the spectacular Wave Rock formation, providing once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities.
Aboriginal cultureBeachesClassic driving toursFood & wineWildlife & natureOn arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside customs exit and delivered to your Perth accommodation.
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.
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.
Jump on the board and see all the best sights of Perth & Kings Park on top of an iconic open-top double-decker bus. You can use the hop-on hop-off option to take a closer look at the sights if you wish, or just stay on board for a complete 2-hour sightseeing circuit. From the top deck, you can take beautiful photos as there is no window to spoil the view! Your tour includes a full commentary along the way by knowledgeable and professional drivers.
Your accommodation: Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth Apartment Hotel
Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth offers fully self-contained and well-furnished apartments. The apartments are situated in a village-style environment, in the secluded Mounts Bay Village. This sanctuary of landscaped gardens is complemented by swimming pools and tennis courts, with ample undercover parking within the complex.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.
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.
Your accommodation: Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth Apartment Hotel
Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth offers fully self-contained and well-furnished apartments. The apartments are situated in a village-style environment, in the secluded Mounts Bay Village. This sanctuary of landscaped gardens is complemented by swimming pools and tennis courts, with ample undercover parking within the complex.Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. We have a fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige sedans and SUVs. Insurance can often be included with a small excess or deductible.
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.
This tour commences with a short guided bushwalk identifying traditional medicine plants & knowledge about the region. Next you will venture into Ngilgi Cave where the good spirit Ngilgi dwells, to hear Dreamtime legends and enjoy a mesmerising didgeridoo performance as part of a unique cave experience.
Your accommodation: Margarets Beach Resort
Margaret's Beach Resort is situated just 500m from the beach in the popular beachside suburb of Gnarabup, and a short 10 minute drive from the town centre. The idyllic apartment accommodation has everything you need for a relaxing beach resort holiday, perfect for a romantic getaway or family holiday.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 246 kms / 153 miles : 2.8 hours
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.
Your accommodation: Margarets Beach Resort
Margaret's Beach Resort is situated just 500m from the beach in the popular beachside suburb of Gnarabup, and a short 10 minute drive from the town centre. The idyllic apartment accommodation has everything you need for a relaxing beach resort holiday, perfect for a romantic getaway or family holiday.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 cafe 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 lighthouse.
The original Fat Bike touring company in Western Australia, Margaret River Adventure Co. has everything you need for a day of adventure and a unique perspective of the spectacular coastlines, remote beaches, and magnificent forests of the Margaret River region.
Don a wetsuit, lifejacket, and helmet, and you’re ready for a truly unique adventure in Margaret River. Experience the coast like never before, rock-hopping, shore-scrambling, rock-jumping, and swell-riding on this Coasteering Adventure with Margaret River Adventure Co. Coasteering is a relatively new activity that allows you to see and experience otherwise inaccessible coastlines from a completely unique perspective, getting you in the water and experiencing the ocean up close! Margaret River Adventure Co. is the only tour company in Australia offering this incredible experience.
At Leeuwin Estate Winery in Margaret River, Australia, the Art and Wine Pairing experience offers a unique fusion of fine art and exceptional wine. Visitors are guided through a curated selection of Leeuwin Estate's acclaimed wines, each meticulously paired with artworks from the Leeuwin Art Series collection. Discover why a deep appreciation of fine wine and art often go hand-in-hand. Enjoy a delicious morning tea upon arrival as your host introduces family-owned Leeuwin Estate, its commitment to the arts and winemaking philosophy. Following morning tea,enjoy a guided tour of the Leeuwin Art Gallery, showcasing the compelling collection of contemporary Australian artworks featured on the winery’s iconic ‘Art Series’ labels. Your art and wine adventure concludes with an indulgent tutored tasting, featuring five wines accompanied with West Australian delicacies.
Your accommodation: Margarets Beach Resort
Margaret's Beach Resort is situated just 500m from the beach in the popular beachside suburb of Gnarabup, and a short 10 minute drive from the town centre. The idyllic apartment accommodation has everything you need for a relaxing beach resort holiday, perfect for a romantic getaway or family holiday.The drive from Margaret River to Walpole takes about 3 hours by car. Today's journey begins by heading inland to the old timber town of Nannup – famous for its gardens, spring wildflowers and craft shops. From here, follow Vasse Highway and then continue on Graphite Rd to Manjimup. The town is well-known for its thriving fruit and vegetable industry; the famous 'Pink Lady' apple was developed here; and it is also a home of Australia's first mainland truffles. You can treat yourself by stopping for some delicious lunch in one of the local restaurants or get some fresh local fruit and veggies. After lunch, you can visit Manjimup Heritage Park; it offers interactive museums and outdoor adventures. From Manjimup, stay on National Route 1 and head for about 120 km (75 miles) to Walpole. The nature in this area is incredible, there is no shortage of sheltered spots to swim, stunning beaches, coastal walks and art trails. You can experience rugged coastline, and ancient beauty of true wilderness in Valley of the Giants. You can wander through the majestic tingle trees and visit Grandma Tingle as a part of the famous Tree Top Walk.
The Valley of the Giants is an iconic region on the south coast of Western Australia between Denmark and Walpole. The area is world famous for the Tree Top Walk suspended 40 metres high in the canopy of the ancient tingle forest. Designed to immerse you in the forest and leave the eco system untouched, the walk blends seamlessly into its surrounds, inspired by the sword grass and the tassel flower it serves to protect. Suspended effortlessly in the air, the walk moves gently just like the sway of the trees. In a busy world be inspired to stop, reflect, and connect with nature.
Leaving Walpole heading south west down the Rainbow coast you will reach the quiet tree hillside town Denmark. A short detour 15km west of Denmark on the edge of William Bay National Park. The park provides the perfect stop to stretch the legs, a gentle 10 minute stroll along the well kept track linking the picturesque turquoise water of the green pools and the large rugged stone animals known as the Elephant rocks is highly recommended. The final hour of the drive takes you along the coastline before reaching your destination, Albany.
Your accommodation: SureStay Hotel by Best Western The Clarence on Melville
10 minutes from the heart of Albany City Centre, the Clarence on Melville is the perfect base to explore the Rainbow Coast, Albany City, and the iconic surrounding waterways. Relax in comfort in the spacious rooms with modern facilities each kitted out with the amenities needed, .Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 366 kms / 227 miles : 4.3 hours
Albany, located on the southern coast of Western Australia, is a picturesque town known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. As the state's oldest European settlement, established in 1826, Albany boasts a vibrant heritage, evident in its well-preserved colonial architecture and historical landmarks, such as the Old Gaol and the Brig Amity replica. Surrounded by rugged coastlines and pristine beaches, Albany offers breathtaking views from spots like the iconic Gap and Natural Bridge in Torndirrup National Park. Whale-watching is a popular activity during the migration season, and the town's maritime past is celebrated at the National Anzac Centre, where visitors can learn about Australia's military history. Albany also serves as the gateway to the Great Southern Wine Region, offering a blend of outdoor adventures and culinary delights. Its cool climate, fresh seafood, and proximity to nature make Albany a must-visit destination in Western Australia.
Experience the spectacular views of Castle Rock in this Granite Skywalk Porongurups half day tour. Travel to Porongurups National Park and scramble over boulders and climb in an enclosed ladder to the Granite Skywalk which will lead you to the stunning 360 degree views on Castle Rock. This is a 4.2km return uphill nature walk which requires a moderate level of fitness. Listen to intriguing stories of the traditional owners, the Noongar people, before enjoying a lunch and wine tasting at Porongurups winery.
Your accommodation: SureStay Hotel by Best Western The Clarence on Melville
10 minutes from the heart of Albany City Centre, the Clarence on Melville is the perfect base to explore the Rainbow Coast, Albany City, and the iconic surrounding waterways. Relax in comfort in the spacious rooms with modern facilities each kitted out with the amenities needed, .Heading north east from Albany on one the most enjoyable roads you will begin the 5 hour journey along the national route 1 to Esperance the town of the pink bubble-gum lake and picturesque white sandy beaches. After 2 hours you will reach Jerramungup, a small sheep settlement on the coast which provides a popular stop on the journey. With the heritage trail, Fitzgerald River National Park and the chance to spot a whale during the winter months its a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch. You will then pass through a small town of Ravensthorpe, the home of 3 silos that represent a beautiful wildflower mural which is part of the public silo trail in the area. From here it is an easy 2 hours to reach your destination of Esperance full of natural wonders.
Your accommodation: Hospitality Esperance SureStay Collection by Best Western
Looking over the glorious Esperance Bay, Best Western Esperance offers comfortable and well-appointed accommodation in a perfectly central location. Relax by the pool, grab a cocktail at the bar, or take some time out at the adjacent beach and watch for dolphins in the bay.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 483 kms / 300 miles : 5.1 hours
Esperance is an absolute haven for sea, sun, and adventure lovers, nestled on the south coast of Western Australia about 8 hours drive from Perth. The town is surrounded by untouched beaches, bushland and an abundance of national parks such as Cape Le Grand National Park, the many trails and coastal walks of which are a big drawcard for the nature lovers. Another natural highlight is the nearby string of 105 islands known as the Recherche Archipelago, a breathtaking seascape that has seen Esperance affectionately titled the 'Bay of Isles'. One of these islands, Middle Island, even cradles its very own bubblegum pink salt lake, Lake Hillier. Contrasting the striking blue waters and green bushland, it is a truly astonishing view to witness by air. From island cruises to diving, surfing, fishing charters and scenic flights, Esperance has something to offer every vibe. If you're looking for something a little different but equally as impressive, check out the Esperance Stonehenge - the only full-size replica of the original, totalling 137 stones of Esperance Pink Granite.
You will explore one of the Australia's most beautiful coastlines in a comfortable off-road vehicle and enjoy spectacular views over turquoise waters. The tour starts with a 25 km beach drive to the Cape Le Grand National Park. You will explore the rugged wilderness and beautiful scenery, including Frenchman Peak, Mount Le Grand, Hellfire Bay and Thistle Cove. From here you will visit the famous Lucky Bay, which is one of the whitest beaches in Australia and home to friendly kangaroos. You will have a morning tea with delicious locally baked treats as well as time to relax and explore the natural beauty of this area.
Discover the stunning scenery of the Esperance Region during this 80-minute Scenic Flight over one of the Australia's most beautiful coastline. You will fly over the snow-white beaches of Cape Le Grand National Park and the surreal pink colored Lake Hillier, located on the Middle Island. You will also see unique lake systems, home to almost 200 individual Pink and Rainbow Lakes, Woody Island, Frenchman Peak, Lucky Bay, Duke of Orleans, Cape Arid, Wharton Beach and beautiful turquoise waters that make the Esperance region so spectacular. From June to October, there is even a chance to spot a migrating whales.
Your accommodation: Hospitality Esperance SureStay Collection by Best Western
Looking over the glorious Esperance Bay, Best Western Esperance offers comfortable and well-appointed accommodation in a perfectly central location. Relax by the pool, grab a cocktail at the bar, or take some time out at the adjacent beach and watch for dolphins in the bay.Get up close and personal to the stunning islands and wide variety of wildlife of the Recherche Archipelago on this Scenic Wildlife Cruise with Esperance Island Cruises. The Recherche Archipelago, off the coast of Esperance, Western Australia, is home to over 105 untouched islands, each island host to its own unique wildlife populations and unique stories to immerse yourself in.
As you leave Esperance, drive to the west of the town and make the breathtaking Great Ocean Drive a priority, stopping at stunning Blue Haven, Salmon or Twilight Beach. You can make a little detour to Observatory Point and walk up to the top of the lookout to admire the harsh beauty of Esperance's coastline. Continue driving on Twilight Beach Rd and you'll pass Ten Mile Lagoon; which is a great spot for a swim (clothing optional on a if it's only you there!) in a protected lagoon. After a dip keep driving on Eleven Mile Beach Rd towards the 'Pink Lake', which is unfortunately no longer pink, but there are still beautiful lookouts. Follow the South Coast Highway towards Ravensthorpe, a town surrounded by incredible wildflowers - if you are visiting in September, don't miss out the Wildflower Show! Ravensthorpe is also known for the very popular Yummylicious Candy Shack, home to the World's Largest Lollypop!
From here, it is about 2 hours drive to Hyden, via State Route 40. While in Hyden, you must see the Wave Rock. It is a carved granite cliff face, resembling a wave, which has been forming for millions of years. You can take a bush walk around the rock to see native flowers and birds; and also visit Lake Magic, which is 1 km north of Wave Rock. The best time to experience the changing colors of the lake is at sunrise or with a glass of wine at sunset.
Your accommodation: Wave Rock Hotel Motel
Wave Rock Motel is located just 5 km from the iconic Wave Rock. It offers a premium accommodation and comfort overlooking picturesque billabong swimming pool and gardens.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 401 kms / 249 miles : 4.2 hours
Hyden is an inland town of Western Australia famous for its recognisable Wave Rock formation and other natural landscapes which you can easily spend a day exploring. Rising an astonishing 15 metres from the ground and more than 100 metres in length, the multicoloured granite formation looks like a giant surf wave, juxtaposed against the red sand desert and bushland it rises from. Nearby you will also find Hippos Yawn, a 12-metre rock named for its resemblance to the animal.
A 10-minute drive north of Wave Rock you will find the Humps and Mulka's Cave, named for an Aboriginal legend associated with the cave. Inside, you can see hand stencils and line paintings on the walls that are thought to date back around 400 years.
Alongside its rich cultural experiences, Hyden also offers contemporary experiences such as the Salt Pool. End your day of exploration soaking in this 20 metre round and 6 metre deep manmade gypsum pond. It has buoyancy and therapeutic properties greater than those of the Dead Sea - right in the middle of the Australian Desert!
Lake Magic at sunrise or sunset provides amazing photo opportunities, and is the naturally occurring alternative to the Salt Pool with its gypsum base, salt water and sandy beach edges. Whether exploring the outdoors or relaxation is your main goal, your stay in Hyden will provide.
Your accommodation: Wave Rock Hotel Motel
Wave Rock Motel is located just 5 km from the iconic Wave Rock. It offers a premium accommodation and comfort overlooking picturesque billabong swimming pool and gardens.The drive from Hyden to Perth takes about 4 hours by car; you'll travel through an area known as the Wheatbelt and there's plenty of places to stop on the way. Start the journey heading southwest on State Route 40 towards Karlgarin. If you haven't had time to see the Wave Rock in Hyden, there is an opportunity to visit Jilakin Rock today. This rock is far less impressive than Wave Rock itself but from here you will see incredible views of Jilakin Lake. Continuing on you'll drive towards Kulin, a town famous for the Kulin Bush Races and now even more popular for its Tin Horse Highway, recognized as one of the Wheatbelt's most popular drive trails. The tin horses were created by community members out of bits and pieces found lying around farms in the area. See how many tin horses can you spot on your way?
After Kulin continue toward Corrigin along State Route 40, pass by the Gorge Rock Reserve, where, just off the main road you can observe an old local swimming pool, have a picnic or walk up the Gorge Rock. Our final suggestion for this journey is a stop at the very popular Cohunu Koala Park, (40 minutes from Perth) where you can get up close with Australia's most loved animals - koala bears and maybe hand feed the friendly kangaroos, wallabies and other wildlife. Once in Perth, you can enjoy soft-sand beaches, scenic parks as well as a thriving metropolis of small bars, creative restaurants and street art.
Your accommodation: Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth Apartment Hotel
Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth offers fully self-contained and well-furnished apartments. The apartments are situated in a village-style environment, in the secluded Mounts Bay Village. This sanctuary of landscaped gardens is complemented by swimming pools and tennis courts, with ample undercover parking within the complex.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 337 kms / 209 miles : 3.6 hours
Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consult about planning your next stop!