South West

Australia’s South West is a region rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and immersive experiences. Visitors can explore ancient forests of towering karri and jarrah trees, hike dramatic coastal cliffs, and breathe in the fresh forest air while discovering the stories embedded in the landscape.

The region’s cool climate and ocean breezes contribute to the production of premium wines, with local vineyards offering tastings and cellar door experiences. Fresh produce from fertile soils is featured in seasonal menus across the region, highlighting the connection between land and cuisine.

Natural attractions include limestone caves formed over millions of years, offering unique geological formations and tranquil underground spaces. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, diving, and kayaking in the region’s clear oceans, rivers, and lakes, with opportunities to spot dolphins, humpback whales, and other marine life.

For those seeking adventure, the South West offers vast beaches, secluded trails, and off-the-beaten-path foraging experiences. Whether you're looking for relaxation, exploration, or transformation, the region provides a wide range of activities for every type of traveller.

Australia’s South West is a destination where nature, food, and culture come together to create memorable and meaningful experiences.

Have a look at the 12 unmissable sights of the South West! - The South West is the perfect destination to taste just how much WA has to offer visitors.

Download the Australia's South West Holiday Planner or Order a hardcopy (for a postage fee).

 

The Margaret River region

The Margaret River Region is only a short drive, but an entire world away from Perth. Not only a mecca for exquisite food and wine, but The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has also been certified as an ECO Destination - the first in WA and one of only four in Australia. Starting from Cape Naturaliste in the northwest corner down to Cape Leeuwin in the south – each of the capes has a lighthouse. Its reputation as a wine-growing region exceeds its size, accounting for just 3 per cent of the national wine crop but some 20 per cent of Australia’s premium wine. Tastings can be enjoyed at numerous cellar doors from boutique vineyards up to the palatial Voyager winery. Pairing great food with great wine, the region has also gained a reputation with foodies, especially during the annual Gourmet Escape festival.

The region boasts some of the best hiking trails - (Bibbulmun Track & The Cape to Cape), National Parks, and pristine forests - it is a nature lovers' dream! The winter months are the best time to get out and explore our beautiful national parks when the weather is cool and you can roast some marshmallows over a fireplace in the evenings. If you are wanting to experience the region from a different angle, join the team at Jesters Flat where they have horses suited to all abilities, from the complete beginners to the very accomplished riders. They offer a variety of tours from bush rides in the Rosa Brook bushlands to weekend beach rides in the Boranup National Park.

This region is also popular with surfers, offering up great waves and beautiful beaches and for the intrepid, the stunning coastline provides the ideal trek between the two capes and their lighthouses. Reaching Cape Leeuwin is not just the end of the walk but also the most south-westerly point of Australia.

Whilst exploring the Margaret River region, take in the stunning scenery surrounding the region from a whole new perspective, aboard a canoe on the pristine Margaret River. Meet Bushtucker Tours at Prevelly, the river mouth, where you can spot the surfers before heading up the river and taking in the river's unique ecosystem. All this paddling will work up an appetite! Your lunch is like no other with an amazing array of bush meats such as kangaroo and emu along with bush jams, pestos, and condiments, along with freshly baked bread from the region.

They also do Bushtucker Winery & Brewery Tours.

 

The Geographe Region

Just south of Perth, and the gateway to the South West you will find the Geographe Region, from the coastal areas of Bunbury, Busselton, and Dunsborough, this region also heads inland along winding country roads to the rolling hills of the Ferguson Valley, Blackwood Valley and onto the forests of Collie.

This region has a diverse range of attractions, including the Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury, the new Dam wall mural at Wellington Dam and the must-stop quirky spot of Gnomesville in the Ferguson Valley. 

Visit the farm gates, lush orchards and cellar doors of vineyards found in this up-and-coming wine region, the proud makers will be very happy to welcome you and share their fresh local produce.

 

Wildflowers in the South West

It's time for our South West to shine! Our friends at Pemberton Discovery Tours offer great 4WD wildflower tours around the Pemberton area including the beautiful D’Entrecasteaux National Park. With plenty of departures available now is the perfect time to lock in a date and see the national park come alive with colour!

 

The Southern Forests & Valleys 

This quiet and tranquil area is the ideal place to get back to nature this winter, snuggle up by the fire and wake up to misty views over the valley. 

Spend your day exploring the quaint country towns and the stunning autumn/ winter scenery, with the Munda Biddi trail and Bibbulmun track running through this region you are spoilt for choice. 

It is the perfect spot to get out and explore some National parks, waterfalls, and other hidden gems like the landlocked sand dunes  - Yeagarup Dunes in 'D'Entrecasteaux National Park. If you do not have a 4 x 4 you can join a thrilling guided tour with Pemberton Discovery Tours. 

Great Southern

Immerse yourself in the Amazing South Coast, a 5-hour drive south of Perth city and through the quaint towns of Walpole, Denmark, Albany, Mount Barker and Bremer Bay.

From hiking and mountain biking in pristine national parks to surfing and enjoying the sparkling coastline, and wildlife spotting along forest trails or out on the ocean's waves. Get outdoors in this biodiverse hotspot!

There are treats for foodies galore, when driving along the South Coast Highway you will want to add a few hours to your travel plans as there are so many farm gates where you can taste the local delicacies. Treat yourself to the uniquely Western Australian Akoya Oysters, which are found native along the Leeuwin Coast and sustainably grown and harvested in the waters off Albany.

Albany also holds a wartime significance and you can learn why at the National ANZAC Centre. There's something for everyone in this region!