Australia : South West Splendour

Day 1 Perth – Margaret River (280kms)
Collect your rental car and begin your journey to Margaret River. Travel south, passing through the towns of Mandurah and Bunbury and the Tuart Forest National Park, to the town of Busselton. Busselton sits on the shores of Geographe Bay, a bay of calm waters, long beaches and sheltered coves. The Busselton Jetty, all 2km of it, is the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere! Today it is a major landmark and well worth a stroll to the Oceanarium at the far end. Continue to Margaret River.

Day 2 Margaret River
Full day to explore Margaret River and the surrounding area. From the tranquil waters of Geographe Bay in the north, down the ancient cave-carved Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, through the picturesque vineyards and karri forest of the heartland, to the desolate beauty of Cape Leeuwin in the south, there is plenty here to keep you occupied. Margaret River is well known for its award winning wines, fine food, pristine beaches and breathtaking scenery. The great ocean swells offer a real challenge to the surfers who come from far and wide, and the town is home to many artists and crafts people.

Day 3 Margaret River – Pemberton (180kms)
Depart Margaret River this morning on your drive to Pemberton, travelling via the historic mill town of Nannup. Pemberton is the ideal place to experience the magnificent karri forests of the region, timber milling being the main local industry. The beauty of the forest is enhanced by clear streams and pretty waterfalls and by a wealth of wildflowers in the spring. The Karri Visitors Centre is located near the town centre and combines the Tourist Centre, Pioneer Museum and the Karri Forest Discovery Centre, all of which help give visitors a first-rate introduction to the region.

Day 4 Pemberton – Albany (245kms)
Make your way via Walpole and Denmark to arrive at Albany. Walpole is the only place in the south-west where the karri forest comes down to the sea – almost to paddle in the waves. Here you can enjoy the Tree Top Walk, the world’s highest (up to 40 metres) treetop walkway which provides a unique perspective on the majesty of the forest as it meanders through the upper branches of giant tingle and karri trees. Albany was Western Australia’s first settlement and was once a major whaling centre. It has numerous white sandy beaches and spectacular coastal scenery, as well as historic buildings and a fascinating whaling museum. 

Day 5 Albany – Perth (410kms)
Follow the inland route back to Perth today to return your hire car – or ask us how to continue your road trip east to Esperance and beyond!