1 hour from Perth CBD Western Australia’s first inland settlement. York in the Avon Valley, was established in 1831 and is only an hour’s drive east of Perth. The area’s enchanting historical towns and countryside attract people to the area; the townships of Toodyay, York and Northam evoke images of yesteryear, while the Avon River provides a lovely natural setting for a picnic or stroll along its grassy banks.While exploring, try some adventure activities such as hot-air ballooning, skydiving, paragliding or shoot down the white-water rapids of the Avon River. For a more relaxed pace, take a scenic row visiting the valley’s picturesque villages and enjoy strolling among the magnificent wildflowers in spring. See Northam p. 287, Toodyay p. 294, York p. 297.
45 minutes from Perth CBD The Darling Ranges are Perth’s bush oasis, just 45 minutes east of the city. Spectacular scenery, stunning vistas and charming villages are all waiting to be discovered. Follow the Great Eastern Highway for a tour of the ranges and their more than 23,000 hectares of protected escarpment and jarrah forest.The area is a favourite with locals looking for a healthy Mundaring Weir; canoe or swim at Lake Leschenaultia; take in dose of nature. Be wowed by the immense forest-fringed a scenic picnic lunch in one of the area’s magnificent forests: hike the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail or Bibbulmun Track;or hit the Munda Biddi Cycle Trail. And don’t forget to pop into one of the many arts and craft studios and tearooms!
Just under an hour south of Perth, this traditional beachside holiday haunt has had new life breathed into it in recent years. It’s now a sophisticated marine playground where visitors can sample some very fine seafood. Apart from crabbing, prawning, fishing and dolphin-spotting, lazing in the sublime sun and taking a lazy dip are favourite pastimes of those who visit this charmed coastal area. Be sure to drop into the Mandurah Ocean Marina and investigate its waterfront market stalls, shops and Performing Arts Centre. To fully explore this waterside wonderland, consider hiring a boat.
1 hour, 45 minutes from Perth CBD A Benedictine monastery dominates the quiet town of New Norcia, 130 kilometres north-east of Perth. This is Australia’s only monastic settlement and it’s overflowing with character. Don’t miss the New Norcia Museum and Art Gallery, which reveals the fascinating story of the town’s foundation and also houses some remarkable artworks. A guided tour of the town is recommended, as is a cold drink on the sprawling verandah of the New Norcia Hotel afterwards.
2.5 hours from Perth CBD Powder-white beaches, turquoise waters, friendly quokkas and eye-catching natural scenery – and that’s just what you experience as the ferry pulls into Thomson Bay! Just 20 kilometres offshore, and accessible by ferry from Fremantle. Hillarys Boat Harbour or the Barrack Street jetty in Perth. “Rotto’ is a favourite escape for city folk wanting to indulge in some serious R&R. nity, no private cars are In keeping with the island’s allowed – and shoes are optional! You get around by foot, bus or – most visitors preferred method – bicycle. Divide your time between the many beach coves, where you can swim. and snorkel around coral reefs to your heart’s content, and the scenic and historic attractions of the island.
30 minutes from Perth CBD Few global cities boast a premium and historic wine region right on their doorstep. The Swan Valley is located only a half-hour drive north-east of Perth’s CBD, and is fabled for its Mediterranean-inspired wines. Exploring the region’s many family-owned cellar doors – and the sophisticated craft- brewing scene – is an enchanting way to spend an afternoon, as is taking in one of its many quality eateries.Further attractions in the Swan Valley inclu the historic town of Guildford – best discovered on one of its excellent heritage walks: the Maze, a huge water-slide playground: Caversham Wildlife Park: and Walyunga National Park.
50 minutes from Perth CBD Nestled on the coast north of Perth, Yanchep has long been one of the city’s favourite recreation destinations. While Perth’s northern suburban sprawl continues to creep, this pristine coastal region feels a world away and maintains its rustic and relaxed beach-meets-bush vibe. There is plenty to explore in the adjacent National Park, best done on foot – choose from walking trails with varied distances and levels of difficulty. Have your photo taken with a resident koala; see didgeridoo and dance performances: or take a guided tour of Crystal Cave where stalactites hang above the inky waters of an underground pool. There are also collapsed cave systems, gorges and haunted historic remains all awaiting exploration.