New Year’s Resolution: Road Trips in WA

Last updated:1st December 2018 Far from the standard “doing more exercise” or “eating better” my new years resolution this year is more road trips! Self-driving tours are the best way to see more of the beautiful state that we live in!

The Great South

This self-drive route is an excellent way to explore the famous Southern wine regions and national parks. It can be done in under a week or for a more relaxing journey take up to 3 weeks. Day 1: Perth to Albany ~420 km On the way, stop in Kojonup where you can find traditional Aboriginal Art at The Kodja Place. Once you arrive in Albany visit the many historic sights and attractions the old colonial town has to offer, particularly the Whaling Museum. Day 2: Albany to Pemberton ~240 km Travel west via Denmark and Walpole – stops in these towns are worthwhile along with a stop off at the Valley of the Giants. Finish off the day exploring the Pemberton wine region. Day 3: Pemberton to Margaret River ~ 140 km Start the day with a stroll along the Understory sculpture trail in Northcliffe before heading north to Manjimup Heritage Park. Stop by Bridgetown and Nannup to see local arts and crafts before finishing the day in Margaret River’s famous wine region. Day 4: Margaret Rive to Busselton ~ 50 km Head to Augusta to see the Cape Leeuwin lighthouse, then follow the Caves road to Ellensbrook Homestead. Further North along caves road lies the Warden Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Day 5: Busselton to Bunbury ~ 50 km Start the day exploring Busselton with a trip down the famous jetty. There are a number of cultural highlights to be found in the city. In the afternoon take a 10 km scenic drive to Wonnerup House then head for Bunbury. Day 6: Bunbury to Collie ~ 55 km Bunbury is filled with quaint café’s, a grab a local coffee to start the day. Spend the morning exploring the art galleries and historic sites in Bunbury’s centre then head to Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park for the afternoon. Finally, the Collie River Valley for the night. Day 7: Collie to Perth ~ 200 km Soak up the laid-back rural vibes in Collie before you make your way back to Perth.

Granite and Wildflowers

Day 1: Perth to Wyalkatchem ~ 230 km Heading east to Pelham Reserve you can find a rare example of York gum tree woodland, further along, north of Goomaling the Oak Park Reserve is a great lunch spot especially in spring. In the afternoon head through Dowerin to see the Tin Dog Creek Trail and then spend the night in Wyalktchem Reserve. Day 2: Wyalkatchem to Weira ~ 221 km East of Wyalkatchem you can find the Korrelocking Nature Reserve, home to native flora and fauna. The next stop is Billycatting rock. Weira Reserve is the final stop of the day. Day 3: Weira to Wongan Hills ~ 350 km The day’s itinerary starts with a trip to the Chiddarcooping Nature Reserve, a 500ha expanse of untouched bushland. Next travel to Elachbutting Rock for awe-inspiring views, this is a great camping and picnic spot. Finally finish the day at Wongan Hills Nature Reserve. Day 4: Wongan Hills to Perth ~ 200 km Head back to Perth via Calingiri and Toodyay.

The Golden Pipeline

Day 1: Perth to Northam ~ 100 km Spend the morning at the Mundaring Weir before heading to Northam. Day 2: Northam to Merredin ~ 165 km The first stop is Mecking Earthquake centre for old photographs, newspapers and even the twisted train tracks. Further east Kellerberin Hiil makes a great vantage point to view the region. In the afternoon explore the Merredin Town Centre. Day 3: Merredin to Kalgoorlie ~ 340 km Find your way to Kalgoorlie with pit stops in Southern Cross and Coolgardie. Spend the afternoon exploring the town centre and museums. There’s enough to see in Kalgoorlie and surrounds for a couple of extra days here. Check out the Super Pit and maybe take a day trip up to Lake Ballard. Day 4: Kalgoorlie to Perth ~ 596 km Get an early start for the full-day drive back to Perth.