Day 1 Arrive Perth
Welcome to Western Australia! Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in the heart of vibrant downtown Perth. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the city’s many parks, beaches, restaurants and bars.
Day 2 Perth - day at leisure
Today is at leisure. If you wish, we can arrange an Aboriginal guided tour of the expansive Kings Park, where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the region and hear the dreamtime legends of Australia’s native peoples. Visit one of Perth’s incredible beaches, or simply explore the city center.
Day 3 Perth to Margaret River (260km / 161mi)
This morning pick up your rental car and drive approximately 3 hours to Margaret River, the hidden gem of Australian wine country. Allow some extra time to stop at the beautiful and unspoiled beaches on this coastal route, then get ready to sample some incredible flavors on arrival. Tour the cellar doors and taste local brews at the boutique breweries. Eat fresh crayfish straight from the ocean or dine on the local organic beef and truffles. Visit the farmer’s markets and try the artisan cheeses. Indulge in local handmade chocolates and delicious fudge. The list goes on, and all of these delectable flavors are yours for the tasting.
Day 4 Explore Margaret River Region
Today is yours to explore the Margaret River region, where you can visit Busselton Jetty or climb historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse to look for humpback whales. Meet mantra rays in Hamelin Bay’s shallow waters or venture into ancient Lake, Mammoth, Ngilgi and Jewel limestone caves. Follow short walks along the stunning coastline of Cape Naturaliste or simply relax on stunning Smiths Beach.
Day 5 Margaret River to Pemberton (140km / 86mi)
Travel east through the historic mill town of Nannup to Pemberton, known for the tall karri forests of Gloucester National Park. Nestled in a valley with lush green pastures and acres of rolling vineyards, you can indulge in the tastes of its many restaurants, cafes and wineries, which specialize in fresh gourmet food and home grown produce.
Day 6 Margaret River to Albany (240km / 150mi)
Continuing east, head towards the port city of Albany in the Great Southern Region of Western Australia. A great stop for a swim or photo op is at Elephant Cove, a place named after the rocks that look like a herd of elephants in the shallow waters. Arriving to Albany, explore the oldest permanently settled town in West Australia – it boasts a spectacular collection of old colonial buildings like convict jails, churches and cottages.
Day 7 Albany at Leisure
Today is at leisure to Explore Albany which marks the spot where the first European settlers set foot in Western Australia, and much of their legacy remains today with around 50 colonial buildings standing proudly as museums, galleries and restaurants. From convict prisons, whaling ships and taverns to quaint cottages and grand National Trust residences, you can take in almost two centuries of history on a 30-minute self-guided walk, following the Amity Trail. Albany's King George Sound also marks the spot where the first convoy of ANZACs departed for the battlegrounds of the First World War. Today, you can follow their extraordinary stories through the National Anzac Centre's state-of-the-art interactive displays.
Day 8 Albany to Wave Rock & Hyden (348km / 216mi)
Today you’ll travel north towards Lakes Grace and Kondinin. Turning eastward to Hyden, you’ll find the home of the famous Wave Rock and Mulka's Cave. Wave Rock is one of Australia's most famous land forms, a giant surf wave of multicolored granite that looks like it could crash onto the bush below. Formed over 2,700 million years ago – before even dinosaurs roamed the earth – it’s a truly spectacular sight that you’ll need to stand beneath to understand.
Day 9 Hyden to Perth (325km / 201mi)
It’s time to say goodbye to beautiful Western Australia. Travel back towards Perth to drop off your rental car at the airport and begin your journey home.