Experience Perth

Perth City

Welcome to the City of Perth.

Perth, the capital of Western Australia is the very heart of Australia 's largest State. Perth 's superb location on the banks of the picturesque Swan River and the acres of natural bushland in Kings Park create a city centred in the great outdoors.

Here, in the heart of the city, you can visit world class attractions, picnic, cycle or stroll along the magnificent river foreshore, sail, parasail, take a guided walk trail - so many ways to delight in the relaxed, easy going atmosphere and bright, sunny climate.

Culture lovers are catered to with a rich tapestry of museums, restaurants, cafes, theatres, cinemas and art. Shoppers will adore the fun and affordable range of shops. You'll find department and chain stores as well as chic designer outlets, all with a vibrant blend of design influences - Aboriginal, Asian, African and European.

The wild diversity of restaurants and nightlife has some constants - almost all have a focus on fresh local produce, fine wines and a superb setting. In fact the warm climate encourages people into the streets and to the water's edge.

What to see and do

Kings Park & Botanic Gardens
Barrack Square Precinct
Swan River
Perth Mint
Art Gallery of Western Australia
Western Australian Museum
Perth Zoo
The Swan Bells
Scitech and Horizon Planetarium
London Court

Fremantle

The bustling and dynamic port city of Fremantle oozes a vibrant mix of cosmopolitan class, funky culture and warm, heritage charm. Fremantle is located just 30 minutes from Perth 's Central Business District.

Fremantle's famous cappuccino strip is jammed packed with lively restaurants, the streets are abuzz with shoppers and the historical pubs brim with patrons from across the globe. You can visit a number of stylish and modern micro breweries which are an emerging scene all of their own.

Fremantle's multicultural mix is evident in its food and restaurants. A strong Italian influence has produced a vast array of pizza and pasta restaurants whilst Asian, Indian and a range of International cuisine can also be found along Fremantle's winding streets.

Don't miss the vibrant weekend markets for the freshest of fruit and vegetables, as well as an eclectic mix of buskers, stalls and goods. You'll also find some of the state's most popular seafood restaurants and cafés dotted around Fremantle's colourful Fishing Boat Harbour - the perfect place to sample the Indian Ocean 's bounty.

Fremantle is rich in Western Australia 's pioneering history. You can experience fascinating stories of convict prisoners, maritime heroes, murderous mutineers and pioneering settlers at the Fremantle Prison and incredible range of museums. The WA Maritime Museum is especially popular with its stunning maritime design, set on Victoria Quay.

Rottnest Island

Combines the ultimate in pristine natural environment, chilled out holiday atmosphere and seaside village charm, Rottnest Island is heavenly. Rottnest Island is located just 19km off the Fremantle coast.

In Rottnest, you're in another world - a world where the skies are alive with the dance of seabirds, the ocean harbours sparkle and a spectacular profusion of colourful fish life is lighting up the sea bed. The landscape is filled with dazzling indigenous flora and fauna, beautiful beaches and secluded bays.

Once you arrive, you'll quickly notice the refreshing quietness of this carefully protected island. On Rottnest Island, cars are replaced with the silent pedal of bicycles - hiring a bike is the best way to explore the island. Set out on one of the many bike paths to discover the dozens of hidden bays. Just 11 kms long and 4.5 kms wide, the island is easy to circumnavigate.

You may choose to open your eyes to the wonders of WA's marine environment by hiring a snorkel and mask and exploring the magic of Rottnest's underwater world or by experiencing the Island 's brilliant surf break.

Sunset Coast

With brilliant white beaches, dazzling blue waters, spectacular sunsets and a vibrant mix of cafes restaurants and bars, it's no wonder the Sunset Coast is so popular. This water playground within minutes of Perth City is blessed with all the makings of the ideal holiday or weekend escape.

The Sunset Coast 's silken shores stretch for 66 kilometres from Fremantle's Port Beach in the south to Hillarys Harbour beach marina in the north. Not far from the pristine shores, lakes, rivers and golf courses sprawl across the region's hinterland.

Experience the beaches for a fun filled day on the beach. Try your hand at body boarding on the waves, delight in the invigorating feel of the ocean with a swim or simply lap up the sun on the beach. Many of the beaches are guarded by life savers and, despite their popularity, are usually wonderfully uncrowded.

Virtually the entire length of this magnificent coastline is lined by pedestrian paths - perfect for a seaside bike ride, walk or jog - as well as grassy parkland complete with barbecue and picnic facilities.

The Sunset Coast is home to a host of water sports. Surf boarders carve up the waves with incredible shows of talent and the sky is often ablaze with the colour of wind and kite surfing sails.

Sorrento Quay

Thinking of beachside bliss, dazzling marine life, funky cafes and trendy shops then head to Sorrento Quay at Hillarys Boat Harbour on the Sunset Coast. The resort feel is most evident in the warmer months from October to April when the quay becomes abuzz with happy holiday makers and relaxed, friendly folk.

At Sorrento Quay, boat charters leave for deep sea recreational fishing, as do ferries to Rottnest Island and whale watching tours in season (September to November).

While you're at Sorrento, be sure to stop in at AQWA - the Aquarium of Western Australia. This incredible selection of aquariums allows you to descend to a dazzlingly beautiful underwater world without even getting your feet wet.

Food lovers are also in for a treat at Sorrento Quay. Try a relaxed lunch, an elegant evening meal or sit on the jetty and eat fish and chips while watching the world go by.

North from Sorrento Quay, is the marina complex of Mindarie Keys and the City of Wanneroo where you'll find golf gardens, strawberry fields, wineries and numerous attractions for an active day out.

Yanchep

Nestled deep in stunning woodlands 50 kilometres North West of Perth is one of Western Australia 's oldest and most remarkable national parks - Yanchep. This region of incredible natural beauty is rich in native flora and fauna and fascinating Aboriginal and European history.

Yanchep's natural beauty appeals to all age groups - from children delighting in the soft, teddy-bear look of koalas on the 240-metre-long koala boardwalk to adults getting up close to marvel at a wildflower's intricate design.

Yanchep National Park is nestled among Tuart and Banksia woodlands and is abundant in native flora and fauna, wetlands and limestone caves, all just waiting to be explored.

You may like to hire a row boat and set out on the beautiful freshwater lake. Or maybe you'll opt for picnic on the lake's grassy banks before laying back to delight in the symphony of birds - swans, egrets, kingfishers, parrots, wrens, honeyeaters and rare cockatoos.

In Yanchep you can also gain an enchanting insight into the rich Aboriginal culture of this ancient land. Take a cultural tour to learn about Nyoongar indigenous culture and their intimate understanding of the environment.

For something totally different, try a horse or camel ride - favourites with the kids. No matter how many times you visit, Yanchep always has some new secret for you to learn, another piece of magic to unearth.

Gingin Coast to Country

North of Perth, the green rolling hills of the Gingin coast and hinterland harbour a rich tapestry of fresh produce, heritage charms and beautiful scenery.

Here you can indulge the tastebuds with olives, beef, citrus fruits and lobster. You can sample honey, the nectar of the gods, at WA's largest beekeeping operation and you can relax in gorgeous surrounds with a glass of locally produced wine.

The Gingin townsite located approximately an hour from Perth, is particularly charming and nestled among picturesque, rolling countryside. Set out on the meandering walk trails from Gingin centre into the tranquil surrounds of Granville Park. You may also decide to check out the market gardens, an olive grove, organic farm, wildflower farm or take a break in the charming surrounds of a Devonshire tearoom.

This idyllic coastal setting makes for an excellent laid back holiday where you can experience the area's wonderful flora and fauna along a series of bush walking trails. Explore the new boardwalk along the southern shore to view the incredible bird life. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line for species like bream, taylor and herring. And water lovers can take to the river for swimming, kayaking, canoeing or a leisurely cruise.

Lancelin

Lancelin, just 130 kilometres north of Perth, is a seaside fishing village positioned along kilometres of brilliant white beach. Soaring sand dunes frame the village to the east and the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean spread to the horizon in the west.

In Lancelin you can indulge in adventure sports, taste locally caught seafood or simply laze on the uncrowded shores. This picturesque holiday escape is earning a reputation for its wild variety of sports. Try plunging down the face of sand dune on a sand board or tearing across the dunes in dune buggy. Or what about joining a 4WD tour bus for the ride of a life time across the massive dune environment?

Lancelin is also renowned as a premier windsurfing and kite surfing destination. Board riders from across the globe descend on Lancelin to indulge in these exhilarating sports.

Even if you're not game on trying it yourself, it really is something to watch the riot of colour on the water as the wind and kite surfing sails speed by and soar to breathtaking heights.

Surfing is also a popular Lancelin pursuit - even beginners are catered for with learn to surf classes and surfing tour operators.

Scuba divers can descend into the brilliant blue of the ocean to dive on a choice of 15 eerie ship wrecks. Nature lovers will be impressed with the sea life - dolphins, sea lions and sea birds add to the mosaic of life.

Swan Valley

When it comes to indulging your passion for food and wine, few places do it better than the Swan Valley - Perth 's Valley of Taste.

The Swan Valley is located only 30 minutes east of Perth City and is Western Australia 's oldest wine growing region. Here you'll find wine-tasting venues nestled among rolling fields of vineyards, cafes perched alongside pristine natural bush and an excellent selection of top-quality restaurants.

There are wine trails, olive groves, chocolate factory, fresh produce stalls, markets, wildlife and family attractions.

While you are savouring the taste of a quality wine, sampling a platter of cheese or indulging in heavenly chocolate, be sure to leave time to take advantage of the vibrant arts scene which adds further to the region's feeling of culture.

Galleries and art and craft shops range from well-known and sprawling displays to out of the way treasures tucked away in some hidden corner or courtyard. Guildford is particularly appealing for its heritage buildings, antique stores and arts scene.

You may chose to experience it all at the popular Spring in the Valley festival held every year in October.

The 32 kilometre Swan Valley Food and Wine Discovery Trail is an experience not to be missed. This trip to culinary heaven winds past 80 wineries, restaurants and breweries and more than 50 fresh produce stalls as well as art galleries, olive groves and gorgeous heritage buildings.

What to see and do

Swan Valley Food & Wine Trail
Guildford Heritage Walk Trails
Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery
Caversham Wildlife Park
Houghton Winery
Sandalford Estate Winery Tour
Swan Valley River Cruise
'On the Hop' Brewery Trail
Guildford Courthouse Interpretive Displays
Margaret River Chocolate Company

Perth Hills

The Perth Hills offer a glorious mix of pristine natural bush, wildflowers, waterfalls and creeks, towering trees, sensational views, art galleries, vineyards, restaurants and cafes. Just a 45 minute drive from Perth, it is all so close.

Despite the close proximity to the city, a trip to the Perth Hills allows you to truly get away from it all in a gorgeous setting where nature and culture meet. Indulge yourself by enjoying a mini-break at a bushside retreat, visit a day spa, or immerse yourself in art. The region is home to internationally acclaimed artists who use the stunning environment in which they live as inspiration for their work.

The Mundaring Arts Centre is one of Western Australia 's largest community arts centres and is a major focus for local artists. While in Mundaring, be sure to check out Mundaring Weir and the famous water pipeline to Kalgoorlie. The Mundaring Weir precinct is home to an open-air cinema and a fabulous outdoor concert amphitheatre.

The Mundaring Weir is the starting point of several interesting walk trails though the beautiful native bush in the area. The world famous 1000km Bibbulmun Track begins in the Perth Hills as well as the Munda Biddi Bike Trail - Australia 's longest mountain bike trail.

In Kalamunda, art is alive and well. The town library features the largest community-built stained glass window in Australia. Kalamunda hosts a lively village market on the first Saturday of each month and features over 140 stalls, many selling local art and crafts.

The beautiful Bickley and Carmel Valleys form part of the Perth Hills. Throughout the valleys, you'll find in season orchards with roadside fruit stalls, beautiful open gardens and vistas of vineyards. The Bickley Valley Wine Trail comprises seven award-winning vineyards all within a few kilometres of each other. Cellar doors are open at weekends and several of the wineries have gained a reputation for producing premium quality sparkling wines using the traditional French method.

The Hills Forest Discovery Centre Nearer to Nature programme offers an opportunity to experience the natural Hills environment and provides camping facilities. You can also visit Chidlow for a fascinating close up encounter with nature. The Karakamia Wildlife Sanctuary has guided nocturnal spotlighting tours for small groups.

Whether its nature, culture or relaxation you're after, you're sure to find it in the Perth Hills.

What to see and do

Visit the Perth Hills Wineries
Cycle the Munda Biddi Bike Trail
Walk the Bibbulmun Track
Walk the Railway Reserve Heritage Trail
Enjoy a picnic and a swim at Lake Leschenaultia
Explore the Mundaring Weir and No 1 Pump Station
Experience the Hills Forest Discovery Centre
Get out and about in John Forrest National Park
Browse all the Arts and Craft studios
Go night animal spotting at Karakamia Sanctuary

Heritage Country

Heritage Country is a rich tapestry of natural beauty and historic charm less than an hour south of Perth on Albany Highway.

The City of Armadale lies at the heart of Heritage Country and encompasses the hills and valleys of the Darling Range. It also comprises the charming townships of Kelmscott, Roleystone, Bedfordale and Forrestdale, each boasting their own distinctive identity and character.

Relive the pioneering days of Perth 's early settlement in Kelmscott - one of WA's oldest towns. The Kelmscott townsite was proclaimed in 1830, just a year after the Swan River Colony was established.

The valleys and plateau lands to the east of the Kelmscott and Armadale townsites were initially exploited for timber. Despite intensive logging, much of this majestic forest remains for visitors to explore.

In the valleys the rich soil and reliable water supply encouraged more permanent settlement in the towns of Roleystone and Bedfordale. These localities are blessed with some of Armadale's most glorious scenery.

Set out on the Heritage Country Tourist Route 205 and recharge your soul with the sight of towering trees, pristine lakes and a series of three dams.

Experience the magical world of Araluen Botanic Park. This stunning botanical park stretches over 150 acres of deep shaded valley, offering bush walking trails and picnic spots nestled beside streams and on grassy lawns. You can also try your hand at golf at the Araluen Golf Course.

What to see and do

Araluen Botanic Park
Araluen Golf Resort
Armadale Outpost Telegraph Office
Bert Tyler Vintage Machinery Museum
Brackenridge Village
Pioneer Village
Raeburn Orchards
Serpentine Vintage Tractors and Machinery Museum
Armadale Reptile and Wildlife Centre
Cohunu Koala Park

Chittering Valley

North East of Perth, the Chittering Valley has evolved from a charming rural setting into a total escape, rich in food, wine, scenery and art.

Experience the Chittering Valley along the 76km Chittering Valley Wine Trail, which meanders from Chittering to Gingin through idyllic rural countryside, past seven stunning wineries and by a number of vibrant and unusual displays of public art. Collect a map from the Chittering Visitor Centre with information about the wineries.

Visit the Golden Grove Observatory which salutes the brilliant blanket of stars of the Southern Sky on a clear night.

Nature lovers will adore Bullsbrook and its six mazes, located within a tranquil park setting. Here you can mingle with delightful Australian fauna like koalas, kangaroos and emus and enjoy picnics and barbecues.

The laid-back charm continues further north at Bindoon, just 55 minutes drive from Perth. This delightful region features a majestic hardwood forest known as Julimar. Deer and emu farms stand nearby and wildflowers in spring set the landscape ablaze with colour.

Chittering Valley indeed offers a charming rural retreat - somewhere to indulge the senses and recharge your batteries.

What to see and do

Chittering Valley Wine Trail
Apricot Acres Farm
Bindoon Arts & Crafts Centre
Chittering Museum
Muchea Tree Farm
Orchard Glory Resort Farm
Rocky Creek Tourist Farm
Catholic Agricultural College
The Maze

Rockingham

Rockingham, located on the coast just a 45 minute drive south of Perth, is a water and nature lover's paradise.

On the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean you can sail in protected bays, windsurf the brilliant blue waters, swim with dolphins and surf the waves. Snorkellers and divers can head to the West Coast Dive Park which is rich in dive wrecks and boasts a wonder world of fishes, sea weeds and corals. Play a round of golf at a nearby world class golf course or check out cuddly koalas at a wildlife sanctuary.

Rockingham offers an incredible eco-tourism experience. Firstly, and most famously, is Rockingham's award-winning swim with the dolphin's tours.

Donning snorkel and mask slip into the water and experience Rockingham's award winning swim with the dolphins tours. Join the magical underwater world of the dolphin as your ears fill with the melody of their calls and you are simply overwhelmed by their grace, beauty and fun-loving nature.

For marine mammals of a different kind take a cruise across to Seal Island. Here you can see seals in their natural habitats. Watch them sprawled out on the beaches in rest or gliding through the water in amazing acrobatic displays.

Nearby Penguin Island is an important penguin habitat -the 500 to 700 pairs of Little Penguins that inhabit the island make it Western Australia 's largest penguin colony. Watch these adorable birds waddle along the beach in their unique, ungainly manner before diving into the ocean and transforming into creatures of utmost speed and grace.

What to see and do

Rockingham Dolphins -Swim with wild Dolphins & Dolphin Watch Tour
Penguin & Seal Island Cruises
Marapana Wildlife World
Bell & Churchill Park
Fishing & Snorkelling
Surf & Windsurfing Schools
Bonney's WA Water Ski Park
Peel Estate & Amarillo Wines
Macnuts WA
West Coast Dive Park

Mandurah

The vibrant city of Mandurah is located an easy 45 minute drive directly south of Perth. In Mandurah you can indulge your taste for culture at the city's excellent selection of restaurants, shops, art galleries and cultural buildings. Mandurah also boasts the magnificent Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, set around the blue-green reflective waters of Mandjar Bay.

The beautiful new Mandurah Ocean Marina in the heart of Mandurah houses magnificent fishing vessels, features wide sweeping parklands, excellent alfresco dining, viewing platforms, shops, markets and cafes.

From the Mandurah Ocean Marina, pleasure craft head out into the wide calm expanses of the Peel Inlet, Harvey Estuary and into the brilliant blue waters of the Indian Ocean. These water wonderlands are home to friendly schools of dolphins, pelicans in their natural habitat and a glorious selection of elegant water birds.

In Mandurah, you can enjoy a wide variety of water sports and activities - dive charters, eco charter, scenic cruise, parasailing, crabbing, fishing, jet skiing, diving, swimming, canoeing or kayaking.

For golf enthusiasts, golf courses are never far away in the region and several excellent golf courses welcome guest players.

What to see and do:

Fishing and crabbing
Cruise the waterways
Watersports - parasailing, jet skiing, diving
World class golf courses
Dolphin Quay (Marina) - markets, galleries, dining
Eastern & Western Foreshores
Mandurah Performing Arts Centre
Heritage sites and museum
Kings Carnival Fun Park
Abington Miniature Village

Peel

The Peel Region, located just an hour south of Perth, represents a mix of coastal and country lifestyle embracing a unique blend of quaint towns, wineries, forests, rivers, beaches and adventure. Read more about the Peel Region.

Serpentine-Jarrahdale

Serpentine-Jarrahdale is a thriving rural district in the heart of the Peel Region. The historic towns of this district are nestled among a brilliant patchwork of tall forests, undulating hills, dams and lush pastures. In springtime, some of Western Australia 's finest displays of wildflowers can be found here.

Surrounded by State forest and the Serpentine National Park, Jarrahdale is a picturesque town with streets lined by quaint timber cottages and historic buildings. You can explore much of this naturally rich shire on bike and walk trails through the forest and national parks. The more adventurous can set out on a portion of the long distance Munda Biddi Mountain Bike Trail, stretching across scenic countryside from Jarrahdale to Dwellingup.

There are also bridle paths at Langford Park for horse riders and the popular Tumbulgum Farm for a real insight into farm life. The Tumbulgum farm on the South West Highway to Mundijong, gives visitors a taste of life on an Australian farm with working sheep dogs, whip cracking, cow milking and sheep sheering. Aboriginal dance and didgeridoo performances are presented cinema style on the big screen.

Murray

The Murray Shire boasts some of the State's most unique heritage sites and includes the townships of Pinjarra and Dwellingup.

Pinjarra is one of the oldest towns in Western Australia. Originally a dairy, cattle farming and timber producing area, the town is now renowned as the horse capital of Western Australia. Visit Edenvale Homestead, a beautifully restored heritage precinct combining arts and crafts, tearooms, a machinery museum and Western Australia 's only heritage rose gardens. Nature lovers will also be drawn to Pinjarra's idyllic setting on the banks of the beautiful Murray River.

The charming township of Dwellingup boasts a vibrant mix of both adventure activities and more tranquil pursuits. The majestic forest setting offers a wealth of activities. Try hiking, mountain biking or horse riding along a forest trail or take to the nearby Murray River's waters on canoe or rubber raft - particularly exhilarating when the river swells in winter with tumultuous rapids.

A 'must see' is the Forest Heritage Centre which incorporates the Fine Wood Gallery, a 60-metre tree top walk and displays & activities that bring to life the secrets of the surrounding forest.

The popular long-distance walking trail, the Bibbulmun Track, runs through the middle of the Dwellingup township and the charming Hotham Valley steam train calls most winter weekends.

Boddington

The delightful township of Boddington is nestled on the banks of the picturesque Hotham River and is surrounded by a patchwork of undulating hills, majestic forest and rolling farm land. The township itself is blessed with a delightful mix of old-fashioned country charm and farming and mining prosperity.

From the township you can set out on a two kilometre walk trail along the Hotham River 's velvety green banks. There is wheelchair access between the Caravan Park and Randford Pool, a favourite fishing, bird watching and picnic place.

Lions Weir offers another favoured picnic and fishing location - drop a line here in autumn or spring for redfin perch and for marron in summer.

Waroona

The charming township of Waroona is located in a shire that stretches from the forests to coastal plains and lakes and onto the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean. In the heart of the town you'll find character buildings, antique bargains and art and craft galleries along Waroona's quaint main street.

East of Waroona is Lake Navarino and the Waroona Dam - a water lover's paradise. Here you can water-ski, fish, canoe and indulge in nature walks through the towering forest. Towards the coast you'll find Yalgorup National Park. This 12,888 hectare park contains eleven coastal lakes, wetlands and strands of rare tuart eucalypt trees and the amazing thrombolite living fossils. The lakes are often home to hundreds of migrating birds, many of which travel great distances to breed around these beautiful lake systems.

Preston Beach at the Park's southern end offers white sandy shores popular for swimming, beach fishing and four-wheel driving.

What to See & Do

Forest Heritage Centre
Hotham Valley Tourist Railway
The Bibbulmun Track
Munda Biddi Cycle Trail
Serpentine Falls
Tumbulgum Farm
Hotham River
Waroona Dam
Edenvale Heritage Complex
Wineries and cheese tasting

Avon Valley

Inland from Perth, the beautiful Avon Valley is a patchwork of green, rolling hills, babbling brooks, historic villages and country charm.

The Avon Valley is perfect for exploring quaint village streets, pottering through craft shops and museums, picnicking on the banks of the Avon River, hot air ballooning at dawn and taking bush walks.

The Avon Valley boasts a host of festivals and events the whole year round which make great excuses to visit. Read more about Avon Valley.

Toodyay

The village of Toodyay, just 85 kilometres north east of Perth in the heart of the Avon Valley is a historic village on the banks of the Avon River. Toodyay is nestled between two peaks and surrounded by beautiful country gardens, fields of lavender, olive groves, historic wine cellars and colonial era tearooms.

In Toodyay you can journey back in time at museums and historic buildings or revel in the beauty of nature among the delightful natural surrounds.

Many of Toodyay's buildings date back to the convict era of the 19th century, echoing the life of the once "wildest town in the west" and the adventures of that intrepid bushranger Moondyne Joe. You can learn about Joe's adventures at the Old Newcastle Gaol Museum. Or try Connors Mill for a historic insight into the workings of a flour mill.

Toodyay is renowned for its festivals. The rural village bursts into life with events like the Moondyne Festival, Toodyay Agricultural Show, Healing Festival, the Picnic Races and Jazz Festival.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy activities ranging from fishing to archery, picturesque walks and wildlife as varied as emus and alpacas.

What to see and do

Ye Olde Lolly Shoppe
Boshack- Real Australia Experience
Pecan Hill Estate
Wyening Mission
Earth Sculptures
Lake Charlotte
Hoodywell Archery

Northam

Northam, the major town of the Avon Valley, is Western Australia 's largest inland town and the commercial hub for the area's rich farmlands.

Located just over one hours drive from Perth on the Great Eastern Highway, Northam makes a perfect day trip, weekender or central base from which to explore the Avon Valley 's pretty surrounds.

Start by exploring the town's historic buildings before strolling the soft, grassy Avon River banks and delighting in the sight of the graceful white swans for which the town is renowned. Walk over the pedestrian suspension bridge - the longest of its kind in Australia. The view from the bridge is excellent and offers the ideal place to photograph the white swans below.

The Avon Valley Visitor Centre is ideally placed to take advantage of this beautiful setting. It houses the Visitor Information Centre, a cafe with alfresco dining, a permanent exhibition "A Sense of Place" and extensive public amenities.

Near to Northam you can experience the enchantment of a hot air balloon flight. Balloons have been flying over the Avon Valley for over quarter of a century and from the air you can witness the first signs of dawn as it sheds light over the countryside, a patchwork of colours and patterns formed by ploughed paddocks, lush pasture, and developing crops. Ballooning is seasonal and flights are daily over the cooler months from April to late November.

What to see and do

Avon Descent
Hot Air Ballooning
Morby Cottage
Migrant Exhibition
Old Railway Station Museum
Suspension Bridge / White Swans
Northam / Katrine Heritage Trail
Avon Valley Arts Centre
Mount Ommanney Lookout

York

York, nestled among the Avon Valley's rolling hills just 97 kilometers east of Perth, has retained its old-world charm in everything from its gorgeous historic buildings to its genuine, local characters.

Walk down one of York 's quaint village streets and you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time. You'll be transported to an age when buildings were constructed as works of art, when life was slower and more relaxed and when people had the time to chat in the street and greet you with the warmest of smiles.

Perhaps it's simply the age of the place that makes it seem as though time has stood still. York was founded in 1831 making it the first inland European settlement in Western Australia.

The Mill Gallery is a must see attraction. It is the largest regional gallery in WA

Mt Brown offers panoramic views over the town and the Old Gaol, Court House and Residency Museum will take you to a bygone era.

Nature lovers will fall under York 's spell - the Avon River flows through the middle of York offering a scenic base for Heritage Walks and picnics in the park. York is also the ideal spot to indulge your taste for adventure. Conditions in the area are perfect for skydiving, paragliding, gliding and hot air ballooning.

Alternatively, visit during one of York's many festivals and see the town abuzz with life and colour.

What to see and do

York Town Hall
Historic Churches
York Courthouse Complex
Residency Museum
Jah Roc Mill Gallery
Historical Rose Garden
Avon River and Park
York Motor Museum
Hot Air Ballooning
Sky Diving

Goomalling, Brookton and Beverley

Nestled among the Avon Valley 's undulating plains, the delightful townships of Goomalling, Beverley and Brookton each offer a taste of rural living and fascinating pioneer history.

Goomalling, 132 kilometres north east of Perth was settled on the strength of the wild and heady days of the 1890s Kalgoorlie gold rush. The quest for gold resulted in a railway line being established, and towns like Goomalling were established along this artery to the goldfields. Visitors can relive the pioneering days by visiting a number of Goomalling attractions including the Museum, located in the Old School House, Slater Homestead and the Old Railway Station.

Beverley, located 130km south-east of Perth via York, is also an excellent place to step back in time and relive the trials and triumphs of yesteryear. Visit the Aeronautical Museum which houses the Silver Centenary - a bi-plane built in the local powerhouse between 1928 and 1930. The museum traces WA's aviation history through a fascinating selection of mounted photographs.

For an insight into the region's agricultural history, visit Avondale Discovery Farm. This modern working farm offers an exceptional rural experience and an insight into WA's agriculture's earlier days.

Brookton, located 139kms south east of Perth, is also rich in pioneering history. The area first attracted early settlers pushing out into the timbered countryside from Guildford soon after the founding of the Swan River colony.

The refurbished Railway Station now houses the Tourist Information Centre and Arts and Craft Shop. You can also visit 9 Acre Rock, one of the largest of the natural granite outcrops in the district or visit the Old Police Station Museum.

New Norcia

Located on the Great Northern Highway, 132 kilometres North of Perth you'll find the serene setting of New Norcia - Australia 's only monastic town. This Benedictine monk community was established in 1846 by Don Rosendo Salvado and continues today to exude an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility.