THE SOUTH WEST EDGE

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 – Perth

Start your first day exploring Perth, the vibrant capital of Western Australia as well as the sunniest in Australia. Explore the lush beauty of Kings Park & Botanic Garden (Kaarta Koomba), or visit the iconic Elizabeth Quay (Goomup) & Bell Tower. Cruise along the Swan River for breathtaking views. Discover history at the Perth Mint and immerse yourself in the city’s culture by taking a segway or walking tour. Visit the WA Museum Boola Bardip or AGWA for art and culture enthusiasts. Experience the thrill of Matagarup Zip + Climb or learn about Aboriginal culture with Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours. Finally, relax on one of Perth’s 19 stunning beaches, blessed with snow-white sands and pristine waters, and then witness the mesmerising sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Accommodation Perth

Day 2 & 3 Perth to the Margaret River region 3hr (270km)

Drive to Busselton (Undalup) for breakfast overlooking Geographe Bay. Visit the Underwater Observatory at Busselton Jetty before heading to Dunsborough and Yallingup for lunch. Explore Ngilgi Cave and then journey to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Look out for migrating humpback and southern right whales from June to December. Follow scenic Caves Road to the Margaret River township.

Margaret River town has a relaxed, nature-loving, artistic vibe. Its main street is dotted with diverse galleries, characterful cafes, produce providores, surf shops, a pub with a 600-bottle wine list and an excellent local ice creamery. Inland, vines frame cellar doors, barrels of wine and some of Western Australia’s best dining experiences including The Origins 7-course lunch and wine tasting at the Voyager Estate.

Accommodation: Margaret River

The Origins Tasting & 7-Course Lunch – Voyager Estate (Margaret River)

Day 4 Margaret River to Pemberton 1.5hr (135km)

Head inland to Nannup, famous for spring wildflowers and country crafts. Explore forests and waterways on the epic Bibbulmun Track meandering through Beedelup and Warren National Parks. Scale the 75-metre Bicentennial Tree and admire the sculptural wonders of Northcliffe Understory: Art & Nature Trail.

Accommodation: Pemberton

Day 5: Pemberton to Denmark 2.5hr (186km)

Continue to Walpole where we recommend the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk through 400-year-old tingle trees. A scenic drive east reaches William Bay National Park where towering forests meet the Southern Ocean. Explore Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool. Take the Mount Shadforth Scenic Drive to discover artisanal treats, local arts and panoramic views. 

The town of Denmark is a natural beauty where the rugged wilderness of tall tree forests and tiny, knee-high wildflowers meet emerald, green lagoons studded with rounded boulders. The pretty township bustles with award-winning bakeries, eclectic cafes and a weekend arts market.

Accommodation: Denmark

Day 6: Denmark to Albany 1hr (55km)

The drive to Albany (Kinjarling) brings you to Discovery Bay and the National Anzac Centre, to explore moving tributes to heroes of WW1. Visit the Historic Whaling Station and museum, and take in one of WA’s most dramatic coastline cliff drives.

The cool climate haven of Albany perches on a placid harbour edged by national park. A rugged coastline of sculpted rocks, peaceful sandy beaches and nature trails through fragrant bush awaits those with a sense of adventure, while fans of local wineries, small wine bars and historic buildings will enjoy slow walks around town. In Torndirrup National Park you will find the scenic Bald Head walking trail and Misery Beach, named one of the best beaches in Australia.

Accommodation: Albany

Day 7 – 10 Albany to Esperance 5 hr (482km)

Embark on a picturesque drive from Albany to Esperance and be captivated by the stunning coastal landscapes. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Southern region as you journey to the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Esperance.

When you arrive in Esperance, immerse yourself in the splendour of pristine beaches, where the whitest sand awaits at Lucky Bay, accompanied by friendly kangaroos.

Explore Cape Le Grand National Park (Mandoowernup), embarking on the 20km hiking trail to encounter hermit crabs, starfish, seals, and dolphins. Witness awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets from Frenchman Peak (Mandooboornup), overlooking the 110 sun-kissed islands of the Recherche Archipelago. Discover idyllic picnic spots amidst the towering dunes of Hellfire Bay.

Further along the coastline of Esperance town, explore the wonders of Twilight Beach, featuring the iconic ‘rock with a hole,’ and uncover the tranquillity of Blue Haven Beach. Surfing enthusiasts can tackle reef breaks at West Beach, Fourth Beach, or Observatory Beach, while fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines at Bandy Creek Harbour.

Venture into the rugged terrain of Fitzgerald River National Park, where an abundance of native plant species flourish, best explored with a four-wheel drive. Embark on a whale-watching tour between June and October to witness the majestic annual migration of these gentle giants.

Accommodation: Esperance

Day 11 Esperance to Katanning 5 hours (457km)

Embark on an epic road trip from Esperance to Kojonup, with a must-visit to Wave Rock along the way. Witness the iconic natural formation and explore its fascinating surroundings. Continue the journey to Katanning, immersing yourself in the scenic landscapes and rural charm of the region.

Accommodation: Katanning

Day 12: Katanning to Perth 3.5 hrs (288km)

Accommodation: Perth