Margaret River, Albany and Esperance

Departing Perth early we make our way south down the coast road via Mandurah and the Dawesville Cut, a man made canal between the Indian Ocean and the Peel Inlet.  Further south we make our first stop at the Dolphin Discovery Centre on Koombana Bay in Bunbury.  Here we have time to stretch our legs and learn all about the dolphins that make this area their home.  If we are lucky the dolphins will make one of their frequent visits to the beach.  We  then journey down through the majestic Ludlow Tuart Forest, the largest remaining Tuart forest in the world, and on to our next destination, the Busselton Jetty.  Here we take time to marvel at the historic jetty and take in sweeping views of Geographe Bay. Back on the bus and onto Yallingup for lunch and a tour of Ngilgi Cave. After lunch we make a short stop at Canal Rocks before making our way south along Caves Road where we have the chance to stop and sample some wine at one of the many wineries that have put Margaret River on the map. Next stop the famous surf break of Margaret River (Prevelly Park) before going into Margaret River itself for a look around. The first day is drawing to a close so we make our way to our first nights accommodation at Pemberton Forest Stay cottages.  (L,D)

We wake this morning to the sights and sounds of the south west. After breakfast we make our way further south through the Karri forest to the largest challenge of the tour, the 60 meter plus climb to the top of the Bicentennial Tree. The Bicentennial Tree is the highest tree top lookout in the world. We need a short break to recover from the breathtaking views before we depart for our next destination, The Valley of the Giants and the Tree Top Walk. Here we have the opportunity to take a walk through the canopy of the ancient Tingle forest, 40 meters above the forest floor. It’s not long before we are back on the bus making our way towards William Bay National Park. We take time out here to view the large granite formations known as Elephant Rocks and to take a dip in the clear waters of Greens Pool. The sun is high in the sky and it is time to head east taking a short break in Denmark before we finish the day by checking out some of the south’s natural coastal phenomena The Blow Holes, The Natural Bridge and the awe inspiring The Gap. A long day has ended and we retire in Albany for our last night together.  (B,L,D)

This morning we have short distance to travel to the pristine Cape Le Grand National Park. We take the opportunity here to swim, relax and frolic on the sunny sandy beaches of Lucky Bay. If we’re lucky the Kangaroos, Dolphins and Whales (in season) will be out to greet us.

Mid afternoon we make the journey along the Great Ocean Road stopping along the way at Nine Mile Beach, Windmill Farm, Pink Lake and take in the views of the Southern Ocean and the Archipelago Of The Recherché from Observatory Point. As the sun goes down its time to put your feet up, relax and reflect on a magical day. (B.L.D)

An early rise this morning as we head west through the wheat and sheep farming region of the Great Southern. We have a short break for morning tea at one of the local towns before travelling on to Hyden where we marvel at one of natures fascinating creations, Wave Rock and the Hippo’s Yawn. It’s then time for the last leg of the journey to Perth, stopping at Corrigin along the way to pay our respects to mans best friend at the Dog Cemetery. Finally we travel to our final destination via the historic town of York – the first settlement outside of Perth.  As we descend the Darling Range back into the city we have startling views of Perth where, sadly, we say farewell to our new friends.  (B.L.)

 

(H)  - Backpackers Hostel

(FS) - Farmstay

 

NOTE: