Lyla Lindsey
Western Australia is a place of endless exploration, with its ancient forests, dramatic coastline, red deserts, wildlife, starry nights, and incredible food and wine. As the largest state, it covers nearly one-third of the country and boasts the nation's longest coastline. The best way to experience Western Australia is by hitting the open road and going on a road trip. You can fly directly into Perth, Australia's sunniest capital and a thriving cultural hub, and start your journey from there. You can either rent a car or choose between renting campervans, motorhomes, SUVs, and 4WD vehicles. Remember to prepare for long drives with snacks, music, and podcasts, and be mindful of the massive distances between destinations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Travel style | Adventure and exploration, indulgence and luxury |
| Transport | Car, bus, campervan, motorhome, SUV, 4WD |
| Attractions | Coral Coast, Ningaloo Reef, The Kimberley, ancient Aboriginal sites, vineyards and wineries, ancient forests, white sand beaches, red deserts, wildlife, starry nights, seafood and native foods, craft beer, art and culture |
| Practicalities | Plan and book in advance, prepare for long drives with music, podcasts, snacks, and petrol, pack a jumper for cool evenings, be aware of dangerous wildlife and seek local advice, bring a printed copy of your itinerary |
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What You'll Learn
Campervan road trip: Perth to Exmouth
Western Australia is a large state, covering nearly one-third of the country. It is known for its natural wonders, ancient Aboriginal sites, and clear ocean waters. One of the best ways to experience Western Australia is by road trip, and one of the most popular routes is from Perth to Exmouth. This route, known as the Coral Coast Drive, offers the perfect mix of great weather, stunning scenery, exciting wildlife, and opportunities to enjoy the beach and World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef.
The trip from Perth to Exmouth is approximately 1,250 kilometres, and can be done in a week, or longer if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The route is well-suited for a campervan, and there are several companies in Perth that offer van hire, including Mighty Campers and StarRV. Before hitting the road, be sure to stock up on essentials and get familiar with your campervan's features.
On the first day of your trip, head north from Perth to the town of Cervantes. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of the famously rugged Coral Coast. Stop at the RAC Cervantes Holiday Park, which offers powered sites, clean facilities, and easy access to the beach. Before leaving Cervantes, visit Lake Thetis and its ancient microbial structures. Then, continue to Jurien Bay, where you can book a sea lion tour.
The next stop on your trip is Kalbarri National Park, known for its iconic rock formations and gorges. Must-sees include Nature's Window, an iconic rock formation that frames the river, and the Kalbarri Skywalk, which offers spectacular views of the gorge. If you're looking for a place to stay, the Kalbarri Tudor Holiday Park is a great option for campervan travellers.
From Kalbarri, continue north to Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and striking landscapes. Finally, make your way to Exmouth, where you can spend your days snorkelling or diving at Ningaloo Reef, exploring local breweries, or simply relaxing by the sea. For a comfortable stay, try the RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park, which offers powered sites and a pool area.
On your return journey to Perth, break up the long drive with a stop in Carnarvon for lunch. If you have time, take a detour to see the blowholes in Quobba.
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Explore the ancient forests and rock formations
Western Australia is a nature lover's dream, with its ancient forests and rock formations. The vastness of the forests can be appreciated from the peaks throughout the region. One of the most popular forest destinations is the Walpole Region, which incorporates many national parks and southern forests. The Walpole-Nornalup National Park, for example, has nearly 20,000 hectares of diverse vegetation, including towering karri and tingle forests, coastal heathlands, and wetlands. The Bibbulmun Track is a great way to experience the forests of Walpole; it stretches from Kalamunda in the Perth hills to Albany, through the heart of the Rainbow Coast.
The Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk in the Walpole Region is another popular attraction, where you can walk amongst the treetops of the giant tingle trees. The Ancient Empires Walk in the same region takes you through the forest at the base of these trees. The Mokare Heritage Trail is another great option, taking you through the karri and paperbark trees that line the banks of the Denmark River.
For those interested in rock formations, Western Australia will not disappoint. The region is home to the world's largest single rock, Mount Augustus, which stands 715 meters above the surrounding flat plains. The local Wajarri Aboriginal people call the mountain "Burringurrah", and you can find Aboriginal engravings along the trails. Wave Rock, a granite inselberg weathered by wind and rain to form a wave-like curve, is another impressive rock formation. It is about 110 meters long and 15 meters high, and you can walk along its base or climb to the top for views of the surrounding farmlands.
Other notable rock formations in Western Australia include the Sandford Rocks, with its 806 hectares of unique rock formations, bushlands, pools, and wildflowers, and Elachbutting Rock, a massive granite outcrop surrounded by bushland and popular for camping. The 'Blowholes' rock formation in the Golden Outback is also worth visiting, with its impressive waves. The Natural Bridge and Gap in Torndirrup National Park are caused by millions of years of rock erosion from powerful sea surges and are a popular stop along Frenchman Bay Road.
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Visit the wineries of Margaret River
Western Australia is a large state, covering nearly one-third of the country. It is known for its diverse landscapes, ancient Aboriginal sites, and clear ocean waters. One of the best ways to explore Western Australia is by car, as the state offers a range of road trip options, from the Gibb River Road to the South West Edge.
When it comes to wine, the Margaret River region in Western Australia is renowned for its world-class wines, particularly its cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay. With 5,840 hectares of vineyards and 215 wineries as of 2012, Margaret River offers a variety of wine-tasting experiences. Here is a suggested itinerary for visiting the wineries of Margaret River:
Vasse Felix
Start your winery tour at Vasse Felix, the region's first vineyard, established in 1967. Here, you can taste the renowned cabernet sauvignon and learn about the history of wine production in Margaret River.
Leeuwin Estate
Leeuwin Estate is known for its distinctive Art Series wine labels, featuring paintings by Australian artists. Enjoy a wine tasting or indulge in a meal at their restaurant, overlooking a meadow surrounded by majestic karri trees. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a scenic flight from Perth directly to their private airstrip.
Voyager Estate
Voyager Estate offers a unique wine experience, including tasting wine straight from the barrel and exploring Australia's largest underground barrel cellar. The signature experience is a six-course, wine-paired lunch that celebrates the estate's history.
Howard Park Wines
Howard Park's cellar door is designed with feng shui principles in mind, creating a unique and modern tasting experience. Howard Park is famous for its excellent riesling, a must-try for wine enthusiasts.
Aravina Estate
Aravina Estate, established in 2010, offers something for everyone. While wine enthusiasts can enjoy their wines, kids can entertain themselves in the playground, and sports car enthusiasts can admire the collection of Aussie muscle cars and vintage vehicles.
Cullen Wines
Taste the award-winning wines of Cullen Wines, where the late matriarch, Diana Cullen, and her daughter, Vanya Cullen, have made their mark as chief winemakers. Pair their exquisite wines with a delicious lunch at the estate's restaurant.
In addition to these wineries, Margaret River offers a plethora of other wine-tasting opportunities, including Pierro, Amelia Park, Moss Wood, Brookwood Estate, and Xanadu. The region also boasts beautiful natural attractions, such as the Karri forest and the riverwalk just east of town. For a break from wine, Eagles Heritage and the Gastro Pub Settlers Tavern offer unique dining experiences.
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Discover the Coral Coast and Ningaloo Reef
Western Australia is a vast and diverse state, covering nearly one-third of the country. The region boasts ancient Aboriginal sites, sweeping vineyards, and clear ocean waters. One of the most remarkable areas in Western Australia is the Coral Coast, home to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef.
Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu) is a 300-kilometre-long water world, located in the north-west coastal region of Western Australia. It is Australia's largest fringing coral reef and the only large reef positioned very close to a landmass. The reef is just a few metres off the shore, making it easily accessible from the pristine beaches of the Coral Coast. Ningaloo is renowned for its abundant marine life, including 500 species of fish, 300 species of coral, and 600 species of molluscs. It is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim alongside majestic whale sharks, which frequent the reef from March to August. During the winter months, Ningaloo is part of the migratory routes for dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, and humpback whales. The beaches of the reef are important breeding grounds for loggerhead, green, and hawksbill turtles, which depend on the reef for nesting and food.
The Coral Coast offers more than just underwater adventures. A short distance from the coast, you'll find a burst of colour from the carpets of wildflowers and a bubblegum-pink lake. The Nambung National Park, with its ancient limestone Pinnacles, offers a unique lunar landscape. The Kalbarri Skywalk provides breathtaking views of the national park's dramatic river gorges and rugged rock formations.
To get to the Coral Coast and Ningaloo Reef, you can fly into Perth, the nearest major city, and then take a regional flight to Learmonth, the gateway to Ningaloo Reef. Alternatively, you can explore Western Australia by road trip, but be prepared for long distances between destinations. A 2WD or campervan is suitable for major roads, but if you're venturing onto unmade roads, you'll need a 4WD and some knowledge of driving on sand and through rivers.
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Experience the outback in Kalgoorlie
Western Australia is a large and diverse state, covering nearly one-third of the country. It is known for its ancient forests, dramatic coastline, red deserts, wildlife, and incredible food and wine. When travelling to Western Australia, it is important to plan your trip in advance and be prepared for long distances between destinations.
One of the must-visit places in Western Australia is Kalgoorlie, the largest city in the Australian Outback. Kalgoorlie, also known as Karlkurla, is a vibrant outback town with a fascinating past and present. Here are some ways to experience the outback in Kalgoorlie:
Explore the Gold Rush History
Kalgoorlie was founded during the gold rush era in the late 1800s, and its grand heritage buildings stand as a testament to that history. You can learn about the town's rich gold mining past by visiting the Museum of the Goldfields, which showcases the history of the Eastern Goldfields and the city's mining heritage. Take a guided tour of the Super Pit, one of the world's largest open-pit gold mines, and witness the power of modern mining. You can also try panning for gold yourself!
Immerse Yourself in Nature
Kalgoorlie offers a unique blend of natural landscapes. Soak in the scenery of soaring eucalyptus forests, spinifex fields, and wildflower meadows. Visit Karlkurla Bushland Park for a peaceful retreat, where you can take scenic walks among native trees and wildflowers, spot unique outback birdlife, and enjoy panoramic views from the Katunga Lookout.
Adventure Activities
For those seeking adventure, Kalgoorlie offers a range of exciting activities. You can take a self-drive tour to explore historic gold rush towns like Coolgardie, Menzies, and Gwalia, uncovering hidden gems and ghost towns. The 965-kilometer journey is perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. Another option is to experience a round of golf at the Kalgoorlie Golf Course, where you can play amidst red earth, native trees, and even spot kangaroos!
Indulge in the Local Culture
Kalgoorlie has a vibrant bar and restaurant scene. Discover lively pubs, stylish bars, and delicious restaurants along Hannan Street, including the iconic Exchange Hotel and Katherine Station Restaurant. Immerse yourself in the local community spirit at the monthly Boulder Markets, where you can find locally crafted items, fresh produce, and unique treasures.
Art and Culture
Explore the whimsical outdoor art gallery set against the backdrop of Lake Ballard for a hauntingly beautiful experience. Additionally, the Boulder Town Hall, built in 1908, showcases the architectural style of the prosperous gold rush era.
Kalgoorlie offers a unique outback experience, blending history, nature, adventure, and culture. Whether you're interested in exploring the past, immersing yourself in nature, or indulging in the local culture, Kalgoorlie has something for everyone.
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Frequently asked questions
Western Australia is a large state, so you will need to prepare for long drives. Hiring a car, campervan, motorhome, SUV, or 4WD vehicle is a great way to explore the region. You can also take buses to many places, including the Coral Coast and Outback.
A popular road trip itinerary is to start in Perth, head south to Margaret River, and then go to Pemberton or Walpole. From there, you can visit Denmark or Albany, followed by Hopetoun and Esperance. Another option is to take a road trip from Perth to Exmouth, which will take you through breathtaking landscapes.
Even during the summer, it can get cool in the evenings, so bring a warm jumper. While the chances of encountering dangerous spiders, sharks, and snakes are slim, it's still a good idea to be prepared. Bring a printed copy of your itinerary, as data coverage and hotel WiFi may be unreliable.
Western Australia has abundant wildlife and sea life, spectacular natural attractions, and some of Australia's most famous wine regions. Highlights include the ancient forests, dramatic coastline, red deserts, the marine wonders of Ningaloo Reef, and the wide-open spaces of Perth.
