Nannup | Pemberton | Northcliffe | Walpole | Manjimup | Bridgetown | Greenbushes | Balingup
An 8-day itinerary in the Southern Forests & Valleys region. Explore the sounds and scenes of the National Parks, Karri forests, stunning coastline and breathtaking natural attractions. Experience first hand, the best in Western Australia.
Day 1: Nannup
Morning
Wake up to the birds singing, breathe in the fresh country air and enjoy the mist rolling over the hills and forest that surround the historical village that is Nannup. With a town just waking up, enjoy a delicious coffee and breakfast at one of Nannup’s cafes, watching the blue wrens play in the gardens.
Once fuelled up, hop on your bike and meander along the Timberline Trail, passing through Kondil Park wildflower trails and on to Barrabup Pool for a picnic.
Take a dip in the beautiful fresh water to cool off before looping back to the heart of town.
Afternoon
Once back in town, learn about the flood tree and totems at Foreshore Park. Visit the Reconciliation Pathway that raises awareness of local indigenous culture.
Visit the Nannup Historical Society to see some of their 2,500 photographs on display. Using the Heritage Trail booklet, take a self-guided tour to 51 of the historical sites around Nannup to explore Nannup through its past. As you discover town, take your time enjoying the various art galleries and gift shops Nannup boasts.
If you have kids, get them down to the Nannup skate park and pump track for some more fun on wheels and to meet some of the locals.
Evening
If it’s a Friday night, join in on social bowls at the Nannup Bowling Club for a great night of country fun.
Drive up to Tank 7 lookout for a magnificent spot to watch the sun go down and witness the splendid vista that is setting Nannup up as a hub of mountain biking. Get on the Experience Nannup App to learn about the exciting Tank 7 Mountain Bike Park construction.
Once back at your accommodation, enjoy a local glass of wine from one of our excellent wineries, revel in the night time stars and, in cooler months, snuggle up in front of a cosy wood fire.
Day 2: Pemberton
Morning
Pemberton is a beautiful town surrounded by spectacular Karri forests and farm land. The joy of eating fresh, local and sustainable produce with some 50 different varieties of fruit and vegetables, truffles, marron and beef can be indulged in, in season at local eateries.
Grab your morning coffee and delicious bite to eat at any of the local cafes to kickstart your day right.
Afternoon
If you’re into fishing Big Brook Dam is a popular place to throw a line in. In warmer weather it is a popular swimming spot for visitors and local alike.
For those looking for excitement climb the Gloucester Tree or the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree at around 58 metres high the 360o views above the tree tops are spectacular.
Mountain bikers will be in heaven with the world class Pemberton Mountain Bike Park. Situated overlooking the town, it’s a great adrenaline rush for the whole family with runs to suit every ability.
Evening
Take a cruise down the Donnelly River or a 4WD to the pristine Yeagarup Dunes that form one of the largest mobile dune systems in the world and watch the sun set slowly as you enjoy a drink with cheese and crackers.
Day 3: Northcliffe
Morning
Start your day with a 1.2 km walk through the unique Understory Art & Nature Walk. This circuit showcases the awe-inspiring Karri, Jarrah and Marri forest of the Northcliffe Forest Park and was designed to permanently feature specially commissioned artworks from a range of different art forms. Sculpture, music and writing has been commissioned from national and internationally renowned creative people to reflect the social, cultural and environmental heritage of the Southern Forests region.
If you have time, check out the Pioneer Museum while you’re in town. This museum is a must see, showcasing the history of the area. Featuring an outstanding collection of original items used by the Northcliffe Group Settlers more than 80 years ago, illustrating their domestic life and work on the dairy farms, on which the district of Northcliffe was founded.
Afternoon
Mount Chudalup is a few minutes, by car, from Northcliffe and offers an easy climb to the top for stunning 360o views of the surrounding forest, heathlands, coast and magnificent Yeagarup Dunes.
Take a packed lunch and hike to the top of Mt Chudalup and enjoy panoramic views in peace.
Evening
Windy Harbour is a 20 minute drive from Northcliffe and is a small settlement and has been used as a holiday destination since the 1900’s. Fishing has been a major part of life at Windy Harbour and one of the principal reasons for its establishment. The relatively sheltered harbour means it’s the best spot to cast your line.
One of the best ways to experience Windy Harbour’s stunning setting is to take a walk along a cliff top.
Take a bottle of wine and nibbles and take the coastal walk along the dunes and cliff tops at sundown and watch the sunset.
Day 4: Walpole
Morning
Once breakfast at a local cafe has been enjoyed, head straight to The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk.
This is a nature-based tourism attraction in the heart of the Walpole Wilderness. The Tree Top Walk features a stunning walkway positioned 40 metres above the ground in the spectacular heights of the tingle forest canopy. The 600-metre walk is accessible and suitable for children of all ages, wheelchairs and strollers.
A walk trail links the Tree Top Walk to the Ancient Empire, where a sealed trail meanders across the forest floor between 400 year old red tingle trees. Interpretative information along the trail follows the story of the era for Gondwana.
Afternoon
Hire a Kayak and explore the rivers and inlet leading to the Great Southern Ocean in your own time. Take a cruise on the unique waterways of the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets Marine Park and learn the history of the area from a home grown guide. Lunch is available in town at the various eating spots.
Evening
For a birds eye view and an amazing spot to watch the sunset, the Mount Frankland Wilderness Lookout provides you with a spectacular view over the western side of the Walpole Wilderness from high above the forest floor. The lookout is accessible for wheelchairs. For the more adventurous follow the Summit Trail to the towerman’s lookout on top of Mount Frankland.
On a clear day you can see the Porongurup and Stirling ranges in the east and the Southern Ocean to the south.
Day 5: Manjimup
Morning
Start the day with breakfast at one of the cafés around town. Manjimup is the food bowl of Western Australia, where the cafés and restaurants source amazing fresh produce in season all year round and local premium wines.
Cycle or walk out to King Jarrah a huge tree over 500 years old or a 15 minute drive out to view the 4 Aces and One Tree Bridge. Take the time to sit and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. Birdsong first thing in the morning is everything in these areas.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Manjimup Heritage Park. A 12 hectare Park featuring museums, playgrounds, natural bushland, heritage displays and walk trails. Join the kids in the playground, try the flying fox or take a thrilling ride down the 17m high slide.
The new Power Up! Electricity Museum is a snapshot of the evolution of electricity in Western Australia with plenty of exhibits and interactives for the whole family to enjoy.
Take a stroll through the Award Winning State Timber Museum showcasing the Forest Management through the ages.
Manjin Recreation Plaza is a huge recreational plaza in the heart of the Manjimup CBD catering for skaters, BMX and scooter riders. There is also a half-court Basketball Court, children’s play area and adult exercise equipment and covered picnic areas.
Evening
After dinner at one of the local restaurants take a stroll down Brockman Street to view the lights are in the Brockman Street precinct before tucking in for the night. Grab a glass of wine and step outside your accommodation to look up at the stars and enjoy the sounds of the Southern Forests & Valleys region.
Day 6: Bridgetown
Morning
Start your day with a paddle or walk along the spectacular Blackwood River before ambling your way into town for a spot of breakfast at one of our quality cafes.
The pleasant Old Rectory Walk takes you west of the iconic bridge while the longer River Walk, to the east of the bridge is guaranteed to stretch your legs and work up a healthy appetite.
A spot of old world village style shopping along the main street after great coffee and a delicious meal will not fail to delight.
Afternoon
Bridgetown is renowned for its rolling green hills, village style main street, unique shops (including the Christmas Shop!), local produce and friendliness.
Take a driving tour to explore the Little Schools Trail or the Food & Beverage Trail which includes stops at wineries, the Cidery and local eateries.
Wander through town and explore the local art scene by visiting the Rabbit Hole where artists collaboratively exhibit and work. More artistic delights are to be found in visiting Tinkahill Gallery and exploring the 17 pieces of public art that form the Bridgetown Art Trail.
Evening
Take a walk beneath the stars as you stroll to one of the delicious eateries in Bridgetown including the Bridgetown Hotel, Nelson’s of Bridgetown, the Cidery, and the Bridgetown Pottery Restaurant.
You can expect great food, live music, country hospitality and locally sourced produce including wines and ciders.
During winter you will be delighted by the crisp cool nights, warm and cosy wood fires and a fun range of winter festival activities. The simple pleasure of walking back to your accommodation after an evening of fine food and wine will delight you.
Day 7: Greenbushes
Morning
Enjoy breakfast, morning tea or lunch at Tasty Edibles Café nestled in the quaint mining town of Greenbushes.
Local produce, a passion for creating quality food and sharing stories will make for a memorable start to the day.
You can take some of the magic home with you in bottled jams, spreads and preserves all made from locally sourced fruit and made with love.
Visit the local Discovery Centre, the mine look out or enjoy the mining heritage walk.
Afternoon
Enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of the Greenbushes Pool. Pack a picnic, bring a BBQ or order delicious fare from the local hotels or café to enjoy in the stunning location.
Stretch your legs on the boardwalk, or take a longer hike on the Greenbushes Loop Walk, New Zealand Gully Walk or the Waterbird Walking Trail around Schwenke’s Dam – keep your eyes open for unexpected public art!
You will see delightful wetlands, Jarrah, Marri Forest, birds, marsupials, fish, turtles, marron and historic sites that bear tribute to the towns mining history.
Evening
Enjoy a warm country welcome as you indulge in generous pub meals at the Shamrock Hotel where locally sourced produce is the key to quality fare.
The Shamrock features in the Blackwood River Valley Food & Beverage Trail – a region that produces one of the widest ranges of food in WA!
The hotel is a historic building that is family friendly and offers accommodation. You will enjoy the cosy dining rooms, wood fires, antique furnishings and friendly service.
Day 8: Balingup
Morning
Take a leisurely drive into Balingup, start your day with coffee and a ‘big breaky’ at Balingup’s award-winning Mushroom at 61 Café. Have some fun and grab a ‘selfie’ with one of Balingup’s quirky scarecrows.
Take a stroll along Balingup’s quaint main street exploring boutique shops including the Tinderbox with its range of hand-made essential oils and aromatherapy products, Balingup’s Goldsmith, for exquisite handmade jewellery and the Village Pedlars for hand crafted products. Cat’n Canvas is an artisan wool shop. Beware you’re sure to get hooked!
Afternoon
Grab some fresh gourmet lunch supplies from the Blackwood Daily Grind or a hearty home-baked pie from the Old Shed Café.
The magnificent 60hectare Golden Valley Tree Park, on the southern edge of Balingup is a perfect spot for a picnic. It’s WA’s largest arboretum, a true hidden gem with a number of short and longer loop walks, picnic tables & BBQ’s. This heritage listed site has a collection of trees that was begun over one hundred years ago. It’s a photographers paradise. No wonder it’s been voted one of the five top spots in Australia to see autumn colours.
Evening
There’s plenty of accommodation to choose from in Balingup – be it camping, budget back packers, cosy B&B’s to award winning self contained cottages. You’ll find something for every budget. Unwind and watch the sunset over the valley below. At night stoke up the fire and marvel at the huge expanse of the night sky. Wake to a magical misty morning over the rolling green hills of Balingup and surrounds.