10 Wonders of Western Australia’s South West Corner

The south west corner of Western Australia is full of natural beauty, charismatic towns, thriving industry, fresh produce and intriguing history. You can enjoy the best of what the region serves up on a tour of Western Australia, here is just a taste of the wonders that await.

Perth

The gateway to Western Australia and its charismatic capital, Perth is a cosmopolitan city with something for everyone. Hugging the banks of the Swan River it boasts a picturesque waterway winding through its core and pristine beaches on its doorstep. Visit Kings Park to meander through the largest inner-city park in the world, marvel at the public art installations scattered throughout the city or climb to the top of the bell tower for 360-degree views of the city sprawled below.

Fremantle

A bustling port city, Freemantle is rich with history overlaid by modern flair. Western Australia’s largest collection of heritage listed buildings pepper the streets, which are now home to an array of galleries, museums, boutiques and cafes adding a contemporary feel. Visit the Freemantle Markets to sample local produce and examine the arts and crafts. Stroll along the foreshore, take a trip back in time at the Freemantle Prison, ride the Freemantle tram, or sit back and enjoy the blends on offer at Little Creatures Brewery.

The Valley of the Giants

A throng of red tingle trees coats the forest floor in the Valley of The Giants, with the entangled canopy eclipsing everything below it. Towering up to 40 meters high, the thicket of vegetation is connected by a soaring treetop walk where you can relish striking views of the horizon and the expansive woodlands nestled underneath. Stroll the boardwalk below, winding past 400-year-old trunks that span up to 15 meters in circumference. A remarkable sight to behold.

Margaret River

The Margaret River region is known for its delicious wine and abundance of fresh produce. Satiate your palate with a wine tasting among the vines, accompany your glass of Cabernet Sauvignon with some artisan cheese, soak some crunchy bread in locally pressed olive oil, and finish off with some of the region’s best chocolate. If you aren’t in an indulgent food coma, then spot fossils and intriguing geological formations as you explore the ancient limestone caves or check out the spectacular surf breaks.

Busselton

The charming township of Busselton is one of the best places on the West Coast to watch the sun set. This is in no small part thanks to its stunning jetty protruding out into the tranquil waters, where you can watch the sun sink over Geographe Bay and into the Indian Ocean on the horizon. Home to the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, it is the perfect place to relax after meandering the white sand beaches that make quaint Busselton so alluring.

Albany

Home to prolific history, Albany is the oldest European settlement in Western Australia. Established in 1826 it has held deep historic significance from its outset. In 1914 Albany saw 41,000 Australians and New Zealanders set off on their way to the WWI battlefields. Be moved by the personal stories at the National Anzac Centre and pay respects at the monuments of remembrance. Also rich in maritime history, you can visit an old whaler’s station at Discovery Bay and learn about this pioneer’s industry at the interactive museum.

Esperance & The Pink Lake

The township of Esperance sits snugly on the shoreline of Esperance Bay. The Esperance region is home to pristine beaches bordered by striking turquoise water. Drink in the views of the unspoiled Twilight Bay. If the hues of the bays are not enough, just inland lies the curious Pink Lake. A biproduct of a high algae concentration in the water, the vibrant pink tone contrasts the white sand bordering the water’s edge and the vibrant green vegetation encircling it.

Kalgoorlie

An active mining town, Kalgoorlie is the largest urban centre in the Goldfields region. Heritage buildings remain a testament to the long-standing presence of the outback hub, with classic pubs and historic structures preserving the old-town feel. Take a trip to see Australia’s largest outdoor gallery at Lake Ballard, marvel at the views of the open cut gold mine known as the Super Pit, and learn about the history and industry of the region as your guide shares their nuggets of wisdom.

Hyden

A modest little town, Hyden is the gateway to a big attraction. Wave Rock stands like a petrified wave surging 15 meters from the baked earth, less than 10 minutes’ drive from the township. The weathered prehistoric formation has been carved into shape by millions of years of erosion and is streaked with multicoloured tones. In Hyden itself, perhaps take a tour of the Hyden Wildlife Park or check out the world’s largest collection of toy soldiers at the local visitor centre.

The Golden Mile

The historic ‘Golden Mile’ refers to a stretch within the gold fields of Western Australia near the towns of Kalgoorlie and Boulder. The square mile that yields this title is said to have been home to some of the richest gold reserves in the world. Over a 112 year period from 1893 the earth along the stretch relinquished 1,475 metric tons of gold, a testament to the riches of the region.

Whether you are a history buff, a lover of good food and wine or have an unrelenting affinity for the beach – the south west corner of WA has something for you in amongst its diverse landscapes.