Destina Travel’s very own Elaine Cox was able to explore Perth and the wider Southern Western Australia on a recent familiarisation trip, where she had a brilliant time visiting some amazing places. Here are a few reasons why we think this region is a fantastic holiday destination as well as some of Elaine’s personal experiences from her recent trip…
Perth
Perth is a relatively easy city to navigate around, with free buses available and guided excursions to take visitors further afield. For more nature filled experiences visitors to Perth can experience bike rides along the Swan River or a visit to South Perth Zoo! Perth is also home to many inner-city parks – The biggest being Kings Park providing perfect scenery for a sunny Segway Tour. Combining bushland and ornamental gardens, Kings Park is great for walking, cycling or a picnic with wonderful views over the city skyline and Swan River.
Whilst in Perth, Elaine took a trip to Rottnest Island, where she explored the area by bicycle, if cycling isn’t for you, there are minibuses or guided walking tours to take you around. This stunning island is home to Quokkas (a small marsupial which appears to be smiling and known as the happiest animal on earth!) With its many beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue sea, it is a great place for snorkelling and a definite ‘must do’.
Mounts Bay Waters Apartments sits a short walk away from Elizabeth Quay and Perth city centre. This apartment-hotel features all of the services and facilities of a hotel but with the added convenience and space of a fully self-contained and furnished apartment in Perth. For a more opulent choice, why not stay at the Luxury Crown Towers Perth. This 6* hotel is an indulgent choice renowned for its modern technological touches, elegant interiors and world-class service. Guests staying in the upper floor suites can also enjoy magnificent views of the Perth City Skyline.
Fremantle
Fremantle is a short train journey from Perth and is home to the World Heritage prison, which was built by British convicts – an interesting tour to undertake. This laid-back beach resort has a wide range of cool cafes and boho bars providing a chilled out atmosphere to enjoy lunch or an afternoon drink whilst soaking up the Fremantle vibe. The Esplanades Rydges Hotel, Fremantle is a lovely colonial style property close to the harbour and town centre.
Fancy Swimming with wild Dolphins? Just under 40 minutes from Fremantle is Rockingham where you can book an excursion on board the Apollo 3. All the equipment is provided and there is a 99% chance of seeing dolphins on every trip. Elaine was very lucky as several dolphins decided they would like to come and play – swimming around and underneath the boat whilst showing off their jumping skills in the waves!
Margaret River Region
Margaret River is recognised as one of the world’s top class wine regions. The private country house hotel, Cape Lodge is a great choice and the ideal base for exploring this area. Surrounded by manicured gardens, this beautiful property sits within its own vineyard, producing fine wines just for their guests.
The nearby Ngilgi caves are well worth a visit, your Aboriginal guide will take you through the caves explaining the rich history and describing the legends of his ancestors. From here why not continue your day with a visit to the Bootleg Brewery. Here you can sample the locally brewed beers and ales to accompany your lunch.
If you like the thrill of the surf, Yallingup beach has one of the best beach breaks in Australia. Seashells Yallingup resort is set within the beautiful gardens of the heritage-listed Caves House Hotel and Yallingup Beach is just a 10-minute stroll away. From here you can also visit Leeuwin Lighthouse, the most south-westerly point of Australia. Cape Leeuwin is also the point where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean. It’s also one of the best land-based vantage points for spotting whales from May to September.
For more information on any of the above or for any other queries please contact Destina:
