Located amongst the trees on the banks of the Blackwood River with pretty picket-fenced gardens and historic weatherboard buildings, Nannup emanates yesteryear charm and natural appeal. It’s also home to one of the most creative and entrepreneurial communities in the South West.
The hip microbrewery, quirky cafes and tea rooms rub shoulders with art galleries and boutiques selling locally made products: think bespoke timber furniture, farm fresh eggs, soaps and artisan cheeses. Noticeboards full of posters spruik an action-packed events calendar of live music, theatre and films with a highlight being the Nannup Music Festival, which brings some of Australia’s biggest bands to town. Another standout event is the Nannup Flower and Garden Festival in Spring, where the public gardens erupt with tulips and Nannup’s private garden gates swing open.
A wander along the perfectly preserved streets lead past more than 21 sites of historical significance on the main street alone, just look for the plaques telling their stories. Highlights include the iconic Nannup Hotel and the South West’s only art deco bakery.
Unbridled nature is within easy reach too. Walking, cycling and canoeing trails lead right from the heart of town. Stroll along the river through towering karri and jarrah trees, or head across the iconic bridge to reach the Kondil Wildflower Park, which blazes with colour in season. As you go, keep eye out for the town’s most famous – and elusive – resident, the Nannup Tiger. There are ten to be found lounging around.
Further afield, there’s swimming at Barrabup Pool, and Donnelly River Village, which houses guests in old timber worker cottages and invites day trippers to handfeed the resident kangaroos and emus. Other popular activities including canoeing, fishing and cruising on the Blackwood and Donnelly Rivers, exploring the national parks, and sampling quality local produce from the myriad farm gates and wineries.
Nannup simply has too many attractions to mention; it’s a place you have to discover yourself. To help you plan your trip, be sure to download the Experience Nannup app.
