Welcome to Perth, Western Australia’s thriving capital city, blessed with more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in the country.
Straddling the banks of the Swan River, Perth lies just 20kms inland from the coast and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean, totally isolated from the rest of Australia. It’s this isolation that gives the city its unique atmosphere and laid-back vibe.
With beautiful beaches just a stone’s throw from the CBD, Perth is the perfect place for a city break. The city is abuzz with plenty of sophisticated bars, restaurants and cultural activities – guaranteed to please even the most discerning traveller.
You can’t visit Perth without enjoying some of the region’s beaches, some of which are regarded amongst the best Australia has to offer. Just outside the city, beaches cling to the western coast and run for around 40 kilometres. With so much coastline to enjoy, it’s easy to find peace and quiet on your own slice of private beach.
Sip your way around Swan Valley Wine Region
After spending some time exploring Perth and soaking up the laid back beach vibes, nominate a designated driver and head for Swan Valley Wine Region, just 25 kilometres outside the city.
Swan Valley is a place with a rich history and is one of Western Australia’s oldest wine regions. It’s home to more than 40 vineyards, many of which are still run by relatives of the original winemaking families.
The region is famous for its fertile soil that has been producing award-winning wines and food for many years. Stop by the Swan Valley Visitor Centre to pick up a map of the Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail.
Suss the hipster vibes in Fremantle
After a day spent exploring the outskirts and wineries of the Perth region, head out to Fremantle for an evening, just 30 kilometres from the city.
Fremantle was once a quaint little port town but in recent years has come into its own and grown to become a trendy suburb, with its own distinct character and thriving food and arts scene. On weekends, people flock here for markets, live music and alfresco dining – not to mention the great nightlife.
Mount Cooke and Monadnocks Conservation Park
From Fremantle, head for Monadnocks National Park, home to Mount Cooke, the highest granite monadnock in the Darling Range, named after Ernest William Cooke, the first Government Astronomer of Western Australia. Here you’ll find a 9.5-kilometre walking trail that includes 3 kilometres along the main ridge and summit of Mount Cooke, which sits at 582 metres above sea level – and about 200 metres above the surrounding plateau. Although the walk is only 9.5 kilometres in length, allow at least 4 hours including a 1/2 hour rest stop. The 240 metre climb up Mount Cooke along the Bibbulmun Track is relatively easy and will suit any reasonably fit walker.
A road trip from Perth to Monadnocks Conservation Park takes in some stunning sights and experiences. Wherever you choose to adventure, you’ll get there in a rental car with Hertz.
Photo by Josh Spires | @drone_nr on Unsplash
