Western Australia

WESTERN AUSTRALIA – WHY GO?

Made famous by Baz Luhrmann in his epic film Australia, Western Australia is Oz’s version of the Wild West. There’s a huge territory to cover in WA, but it’s well worth the effort, as you’ll find true wilderness and surprisingly cosmopolitan cities.

MUST SEE, MUST DO

Perth
Perth is the state’s gateway city – an easygoing metropolis with vibrant nightlife and the sunniest climate of all Australia’s state capitals. Stunning beaches, the proximity of (almost) car-free Rottnest island and the famous Fremantle market are just a few reasons why it’s worth lingering here before setting off around this vast state. 

North West
The North West is one of the world’s last true wildernesses – the place to go for an authentic Aussie Outback adventure. The Kimberley, Bungle Bungle Range and rocky Karijini National Park are just waiting to be explored by 4WD or on scenic flights. It’s red-earth country dotted with waterfalls and inland waterways.

Marine life
Whale watching, wineries and wildflowers can be the order of the day in WA. You can swim with a whale shark – the world's largest fish – snorkel from the beach on the stunning Ningaloo reef, meet the dolphins of Monkey Mia and take in the unique rock formations of the Pinnacles. The whale-watching season in Geographe Bay starts in September, when the calm waters turn into a nursery as whale cows and calves take a breather while migrating south to Antarctica.

Wineries
South of Perth, towns like Albany and regions like Margaret River are the place for world-class wineries (be sure to pick up a case of local wines) top surfing and lazy holidays. Locals head here in winter, too, lured by cosy log-fires, brisk walks along the beach, horse riding through the bush and delicious local produce.

MAKE A DATE

November
Sample the latest vintages and watch a live music concert or two at the four-day Margaret River wine festival.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA ROMANCE
Enjoy a sunset camel ride in Broome along the beautiful golden sands of 22km long Cable Beach.