Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong><br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong> of Australia has a sedate<br />
pace of life, a pleasant, temperate<br />
climate and remarkable natural beauty.<br />
Across this vast region national parks can be<br />
found filled with carpets of wildflowers and<br />
forests of giant karri trees. Miles of beautiful<br />
beaches are washed by the warm waters of<br />
the Indian Ocean and numerous lush valleys<br />
are dotted with wineries. While nature is the<br />
main allure, the sunny city of Perth, the<br />
capital of Western Australia, and the colonial<br />
port of Fremantle, offer a multitude of<br />
attractions. <strong>The</strong> Ningaloo Reef fringes the<br />
western coast and is the home of colourful<br />
coral and diverse species of fish, making it a<br />
great place for snorkelling, whilst to the south<br />
the coastal towns of Albany and Denmark<br />
provide an excellent base for hiking or whale<br />
watching, and Margaret River is home to<br />
award-winning local produce. Despite these<br />
pockets of civilisation, this is a sparsely<br />
populated region that gives you the chance<br />
to discover nature at its most serene and<br />
untouched. It is the region’s sense of isolation<br />
that gives the <strong>Southwest</strong> a feeling of<br />
independence and a unique identity that<br />
locals are all too happy to boast about.<br />
70
0 100 miles<br />
0 161 kilometres<br />
Exmouth<br />
8<br />
Ningaloo<br />
Marine<br />
Park<br />
Coral Bay<br />
Carnarvon<br />
Shark<br />
Bay<br />
Cape Range<br />
National Park<br />
Monkey Mia<br />
Denham<br />
7<br />
Kalbarri<br />
Kalbarri National Park<br />
Geraldton<br />
Indian Ocean<br />
Millstream<br />
Chichester<br />
National Park<br />
Collier Range<br />
National Park<br />
Kennedy<br />
Range<br />
National Park<br />
I<br />
I<br />
I<br />
I<br />
I<br />
Port Hedland<br />
I<br />
Karijini<br />
National Park<br />
Lake<br />
Moore<br />
I<br />
I I<br />
I I<br />
I<br />
WESTERN<br />
AUSTRALIA<br />
I<br />
I<br />
I<br />
I I I<br />
I<br />
I<br />
Lake<br />
Dora<br />
Lake<br />
Disappointment<br />
I<br />
Kalgoorlie<br />
I<br />
I<br />
Lake<br />
Carnegie<br />
I<br />
Lake<br />
Wells<br />
I I I I I I I I I I I I I<br />
Indian Pacific<br />
Cervantes Nambung<br />
National Park<br />
Lake<br />
Johnston<br />
1 Perth<br />
Lake Lake<br />
Rottnest 3<br />
Hope<br />
2<br />
Dundas<br />
Island Fremantle Lake<br />
Rockingham<br />
Sharpe<br />
Bunbury<br />
Yallingup 4<br />
Esperance<br />
Margaret River<br />
Augusta<br />
6<br />
5<br />
Pemberton<br />
Albany<br />
Denmark<br />
Southern Ocean<br />
I<br />
<strong>Audley</strong> in the <strong>Southwest</strong><br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong> has long been one of our<br />
favourite parts of Australia and we know the<br />
area extremely well. While the region is often<br />
overlooked by visitors, it is well worth<br />
including on an itinerary and the lack of other<br />
visitors allows you to explore at leisure and<br />
enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and sense of<br />
isolation for which it is famous. Due to its vast<br />
scale, the logistics of travelling around need<br />
careful consideration. Unquestionably, the<br />
region is best explored by car allowing you<br />
the freedom to take leisurely stops when you<br />
want. We can recommend a route that<br />
allows you to travel at a pace that suits you.<br />
Accommodation<br />
Perth has a good selection of international<br />
hotels to suit most tastes and budgets but<br />
demand frequently exceeds supply. <strong>The</strong>re<br />
are also a number of small, characterful<br />
guesthouses here and in the other urban<br />
centres, where accommodating hosts and a<br />
more personal experience bring a real taste<br />
of the <strong>Southwest</strong> to your stay. Beyond the<br />
main towns there is limited choice of<br />
accommodation, but there are a few gems<br />
that we can recommend.<br />
4 Margaret River<br />
<strong>The</strong> charming small town of<br />
Margaret River is known for its<br />
lush forests, lovely coastal scenery,<br />
fine wines and excellent food.<br />
5 Tree Top Walk<br />
A leisurely stroll along the<br />
40-metre-high Tree Top Walk at<br />
Walpole provides amazing views<br />
of the Valley of the Giants.<br />
Whale shark, Ningaloo Reef<br />
Vineyard, Margaret River<br />
1 Perth<br />
Stroll through leafy Kings Park<br />
for a splendid view across the<br />
Swan River to the city skyline.<br />
2 Rottnest Island<br />
Take the ferry over to Rottnest<br />
Island for a relaxing day touring<br />
the glittering bays and sheltered<br />
coves by bicycle.<br />
3 Fremantle<br />
Explore the port town of<br />
Fremantle, learn about its<br />
historic buildings and take in<br />
the bustling city market.<br />
6 Albany<br />
<strong>The</strong> seaside town of Albany<br />
rewards visitors with a collection<br />
of pretty colonial buildings, a<br />
dramatic coastal scenery and a<br />
series of wonderful beaches.<br />
7 Kalbarri National Park<br />
An area of stunning coastline<br />
and rugged gorges.<br />
Perth<br />
8 Ningaloo Reef<br />
<strong>The</strong> clear turquoise waters of<br />
the Indian Ocean shelter the<br />
colourful Ningaloo Reef, an<br />
exotic underwater world filled<br />
with vibrant coral, brightly<br />
coloured fish, friendly dolphins<br />
and the world’s biggest fish, the<br />
whale shark.<br />
Rottnest Island<br />
Find out more<br />
For suggested itineraries and practical<br />
information about travel in the <strong>Southwest</strong>,<br />
please see page 79.<br />
%<br />
www.audleytravel.com<br />
Interactive maps and features,<br />
further suggested itineraries,<br />
accommodation, climate information<br />
and articles written by our specialists.<br />
Discuss your plans with our Australia<br />
specialists 01993 838 810<br />
<strong>Southwest</strong> 71
Perth from across the Swan River<br />
Perth<br />
<strong>The</strong> modern city of Perth is a compact and<br />
welcoming place that acts as the main arrival point<br />
into the region. Located on the sweeping Swan<br />
River and a short distance from the coast, the city<br />
is blessed with a stunning natural setting and<br />
consistently blue skies. <strong>The</strong> city centre boasts an<br />
attractive blend of architecture and at its heart is<br />
Kings Park. Set on a high escarpment on the edge<br />
of the central business district, this 1.6 square<br />
kilometres of bushland and botanical gardens<br />
provides sensational views back across the<br />
gleaming skyline and river.<br />
A short drive to the west and you arrive at the<br />
seaside suburbs of Cottesloe, Scarborough and<br />
Sorrento. Sharing a glorious stretch of Indian<br />
Ocean coastline, affectionately known as the<br />
Sunset Coast, there are a number of lovely<br />
sheltered swimming beaches and plenty of walking<br />
and cycling paths here. A succession of mining<br />
booms in Western Australia has seen Perth<br />
develop in recent years with a rapidly growing<br />
population and the arrival of a number of high-rise<br />
office buildings, new restaurants, bars and galleries.<br />
Despite this growth, it retains a laid-back feel<br />
and provides a great base from which to explore<br />
the region.<br />
72<br />
<strong>The</strong> Richardson, Perth<br />
Sophisticated yet understated, the Richardson is<br />
the leading boutique hotel in Perth. Situated in<br />
leafy West Perth overlooking vast Kings Park, the<br />
hotel is perfectly positioned between the central<br />
business district and the stylish shopping area of<br />
Subiaco. Its 74 spacious and elegant rooms and<br />
suites feature uncluttered, contemporary décor.<br />
This, coupled with the personalised service and<br />
superb facilities, makes for a truly luxurious stay.<br />
<strong>The</strong> hotel has a lovely spa as well as the Opus<br />
Restaurant, one of Perth’s hottest dining spots,<br />
which features fresh, inventive cuisine and its<br />
own wine annex.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Richardson, Perth<br />
<strong>The</strong> Terrace Hotel, Perth<br />
<strong>The</strong> Terrace Hotel, Perth<br />
Opened in November 2012, the five star Terrace<br />
Hotel is located in West Perth within walking<br />
distance of the city centre and Kings Park. <strong>The</strong><br />
property was originally built in 1892 by the<br />
Anglican Church. It is rich in history and cultural<br />
significance and is a reminder of a former way of<br />
life in the City of Perth.<br />
Hotel Ibis, Perth<br />
<strong>The</strong> Hotel Ibis is ideally situated in the centre of<br />
the city close to the restaurants and shops of<br />
Murray Street and Hay Street. Featuring 192<br />
comfortable rooms, the Ibis is a welcoming,<br />
moderately-priced hotel perfect as a base for a<br />
few nights. <strong>The</strong> hotel bistro serves tasty cuisine<br />
and guests can relax after a busy day of<br />
sightseeing at the Rubix bar which offers light<br />
meals and drinks.
Cycling around Rottnest Island Quokka, Rottnest Island Pancake stall, Fremantle<br />
<strong>The</strong> Pinnacles, Nambung National Park<br />
Rottnest Island<br />
An easy day trip from Perth, Rottnest Island is<br />
home to a variety of bird and animal life<br />
including the quokka, a small kangaroo-like<br />
marsupial. <strong>The</strong>re are several quiet beaches,<br />
gorgeous bays and an accessible coral reef for<br />
those keen on snorkelling or diving. With no<br />
private motor vehicles permitted, visitors are<br />
encouraged to rent bicycles and cycle around<br />
the island and this lack of traffic creates a<br />
wonderfully mellow atmosphere. Regular ferries<br />
make the short journey back and forth from the<br />
mainland each day.<br />
Swimming off Rottnest Island<br />
Café in Freemantle<br />
Perth surrounds<br />
Venture out of Perth and there are some fabulous<br />
landscapes to explore. <strong>The</strong> obvious starting point<br />
is the coastline. <strong>Travel</strong> south and the Indian Ocean<br />
sparkles invitingly, lapping against beautiful beaches<br />
and providing a wonderful playground for locals<br />
and visitors alike. <strong>The</strong> coast is dotted with marinas,<br />
parks and small seaside suburbs worth stopping at<br />
to enjoy the sunset. <strong>The</strong>re are sheltered waters<br />
for swimming and windswept beaches ideal for<br />
walking. North of Perth the coastline is less<br />
developed and more rugged with sand dunes,<br />
wild beaches, rocky bays and coves. Inland there<br />
are olive groves and small farming towns and a<br />
number of beautiful national parks. Among them<br />
is the Nambung National Park, home to the<br />
Pinnacles Desert, a series of eerie limestone<br />
formations sporadically scattered over vast yellow,<br />
sand dunes.<br />
Fremantle<br />
Located 20 kilometres to the south of Perth, the<br />
port of Fremantle retains a colonial charm thanks<br />
to a wonderful collection of restored 19th-century<br />
buildings found throughout the small city centre.<br />
Browsing the many crafts stores and galleries, or<br />
pausing for a coffee at a pavement café makes for<br />
a wonderfully relaxing morning. From Friday to<br />
Sunday the thriving Fremantle market, a local<br />
institution, is well worth a visit for its bustling<br />
atmosphere and vast array of interesting stalls.<br />
Rockingham<br />
Renowned for an offshore marine park home to<br />
pods of dolphins, Rockingham is a small coastal<br />
town 45 minute’s drive south of Perth. <strong>The</strong> marine<br />
park provides a great opportunity to see the<br />
dolphins in their natural environment and we can<br />
arrange trips out to swim and snorkel with these<br />
graceful creatures.<br />
Dolphin, Rockingham<br />
www.audleytravel.com/australia l 01993 838 810 l <strong>Southwest</strong> 73
Driving south<br />
Empty road near Busselton<br />
Driving south from Perth we would<br />
recommend following the picturesque coastline<br />
that extends along the edge of the Indian<br />
Ocean down to Cape Leeuwin, the most<br />
southwesterly point of mainland Australia.<br />
Pass through the pretty towns of Busselton and<br />
Bunbury in Geographe Bay before arriving in<br />
the Margaret River Region which is famed for<br />
fertile agricultural land and wonderful wines.<br />
This area is ideally suited to travelling by<br />
motorhome, or self-driving with overnight<br />
stops in characterful accommodation.<br />
Geographe Bay<br />
Kangaroo paw wildflowers<br />
Local food and wine<br />
Flora and fauna<br />
<strong>The</strong> southwest of Australia is home to a wealth<br />
of flora and fauna including some of the most<br />
spectacular wildflower displays in the world.<br />
<strong>The</strong> rugged landscape of the region comes alive<br />
with a blaze of brilliant colours and lush scents<br />
from June to November. For six picturesque<br />
months, approximately 12,000 plant species<br />
including pink boronias, red and green<br />
kangaroo paw, magenta paperbark blossom<br />
and orange-flowering banksias carpet a wide<br />
area and it is estimated that over 60% of these<br />
species are found nowhere else in the world.<br />
Some of the most majestic of Australian forests<br />
are also found here. <strong>The</strong> karri and marri forests<br />
of the Beedelup and Warren National Parks in<br />
the <strong>Southwest</strong> region are home to trees up to<br />
300 years old and shelter a wide variety of<br />
native animals and plants.<br />
Food and wine<br />
<strong>The</strong> region’s clear, crisp air and temperate<br />
climate provide ideal conditions for farming<br />
and much of the land south of Perth is<br />
dedicated to the production of fine foods<br />
and wines. Vine-clad hillsides and fertile<br />
orchards can be found alongside dairy farms<br />
and olive groves, while the rivers and nearby<br />
ocean are a great source of fresh fish and<br />
seafood. A bounty of fresh produce is available<br />
locally and one of the region’s great pleasures is<br />
buying freshly picked fruit, vegetables or berries<br />
direct from the farm. Other local delicacies<br />
include fresh olive oil, chocolates, delicious<br />
cheeses, boutique beers and ciders.<br />
A variety of wine styles and blends are<br />
produced in the <strong>Southwest</strong>, from complex<br />
cool-climate cabernets to elegant, dry<br />
chardonnays, making a tasting at one of the<br />
wineries in the region a particularly enjoyable<br />
experience.<br />
<strong>The</strong> region’s rich harvest has lured a number<br />
of award-winning chefs to Australia’s<br />
<strong>Southwest</strong>. Dine in intimate restaurants or<br />
cosy cafés, enjoy relaxed and tranquil outdoor<br />
settings, or stop at one of the many wineries.<br />
74
Grape harvest, Margaret River Region<br />
Vineyard at dawn, Margaret River Region<br />
Wine tasting at a vineyard<br />
Vineyard, Margaret River<br />
<strong>The</strong> Margaret River Region<br />
Stretching from the tip of Cape Naturaliste down<br />
to Cape Leeuwin on the edge of the Southern<br />
Ocean, the Margaret River Region is known for its<br />
remarkable natural beauty and relaxed pace of life.<br />
<strong>The</strong> area lends itself to recharging the batteries<br />
and simply taking in the scenery. Perhaps the best<br />
way to explore is on foot. Walk through ancient<br />
forest and woodland or take a delightful coastal<br />
route along well-marked trails that thread their<br />
way along the clifftops and surfing beaches of the<br />
sparkling Indian Ocean. Alternatively, you may<br />
wish to sample the local wines. <strong>The</strong> area has a<br />
reputation for some of the country’s highest<br />
quality wines and many of the wineries open<br />
their doors to visitors and offer tastings, al fresco<br />
lunches and wine sales. <strong>The</strong> small town of<br />
Margaret River is three hours south of Perth.<br />
Located in an idyllic spot surrounded by forests<br />
and lakes and a short distance from the coast,<br />
it is a popular base for a few days.<br />
Yallingup Beach, Margaret River Region<br />
Cape Lodge, Margaret River<br />
Sitting on the edge of a lake, a short distance from<br />
the town of Margaret River, this charming lodge is<br />
set amongst fields of vines, manicured gardens<br />
and native forest. <strong>The</strong> 22 rooms and suites are<br />
extremely comfortable, beautifully furnished and<br />
have either a courtyard or balcony. <strong>The</strong> lodge has<br />
a lovely swimming pool, a tennis court and can<br />
organise a range of relaxing spa treatments. <strong>The</strong><br />
exceptional restaurant, with an al fresco deck<br />
overlooking the lake, serves fresh local cuisine and<br />
some of the region’s finest wines.<br />
Rosewood Guesthouse,<br />
Margaret River<br />
Set in lovingly tended gardens in the heart of<br />
Margaret River, Rosewood Guesthouse is ideally<br />
located to explore and enjoy all that the region<br />
has to offer. <strong>The</strong> restaurants, shops and galleries<br />
of the small town are all within easy walking<br />
distance and the beautiful coastline is just a short<br />
drive away. All six guest rooms are individually<br />
decorated and designed with comfort and<br />
convenience in mind. Your hosts provide warm<br />
hospitality, friendly service and great home-cooked<br />
food. As long term residents they will be<br />
delighted to introduce you to the many highlights<br />
of the region.<br />
Cape Lodge, Margaret River<br />
Pullman Resort Bunker Bay,<br />
near Margaret River<br />
This stylish, contemporary beachside resort is<br />
perched on Bunker Bay, a short distance north of<br />
Margaret River. Set among landscaped grounds<br />
and native bush, overlooking the sparkling Indian<br />
Ocean, it is a wonderfully relaxing place to stay.<br />
Unwind by the infinity pool or follow a meandering<br />
wooden walkway down to the private white-sand<br />
beach. <strong>The</strong> hotel’s excellent facilities and high<br />
standards of personal service are reflected in the<br />
bright and spacious villas and studios.<br />
Rosewood Guesthouse, Margaret River<br />
Pullman Resort Bunker Bay, near Margaret River<br />
www.audleytravel.com/australia l 01993 838 810 l <strong>Southwest</strong> 75
Torndirrup National Park<br />
Albany<br />
One of Australia’s most picturesque and wellpreserved<br />
seaside towns, Albany has a spectacular<br />
location and a collection of colonial buildings<br />
including old convict jails, churches and cottages<br />
dating back to the 19th century. <strong>The</strong> major<br />
attraction of the town is whale watching, with<br />
southern right, blue and humpback whales<br />
regularly spotted close to the coast between May<br />
and November. Nearby, there are a number of<br />
attractive beaches popular for swimming, whilst<br />
the rugged coastline of the Torndirrup National<br />
Park provides some scenic hiking trails.<br />
Cape Howe Cottages,<br />
near Albany<br />
Set in a private nature reserve, a short distance<br />
from Albany, the Cape Howe Cottages are<br />
spacious and fully self-contained. Each cottage is<br />
secluded and has been built to blend in with the<br />
surrounding native forest. With walking trails and<br />
a quiet beach close by, the cottages make an ideal<br />
place to relax for a few days. Whilst positioned<br />
in a lovely peaceful setting they have plenty of<br />
mod-cons including CD/DVD players, barbecues<br />
and a fully equipped kitchen.<br />
76<br />
Beach House at Bayside,<br />
Albany<br />
Just a short walk from the beach, this charming<br />
guesthouse combines a refreshing Tuscan villa<br />
style with a beautiful location. <strong>The</strong> Beach House<br />
at Bayside has seven comfortable rooms and is<br />
managed by a friendly and enthusiastic couple<br />
who have lived in Albany for many years and are<br />
passionate about its beauty and heritage. After a<br />
good night’s sleep and a breakfast of fresh local<br />
produce in the sunny courtyard, take a stroll<br />
along the boardwalk to enjoy the breeze and<br />
ocean views.<br />
Pemberton<br />
Located in a picturesque valley surrounded by<br />
karri forests, green pastures and rolling vineyards,<br />
Pemberton is a popular little town. Nearby, truly<br />
magnificent tall karri trees stretch skywards to<br />
heights of over 50 metres. Some of these<br />
gargantuan trees, the world’s tallest hardwoods,<br />
once acted as fire lookouts and the adventurous<br />
can scale some of the designated climbing trees<br />
for spectacular views. As well as the trees there is<br />
a wealth of activities available including canoeing<br />
on Pemberton’s river, mountain biking and several<br />
walking trails in the nearby Gloucester National<br />
Park. <strong>The</strong> town has a good selection of restaurants<br />
and cafés and the timber heritage is maintained<br />
through a working timber mill and several galleries<br />
that showcase local products.<br />
Valley of the Giants<br />
Tree Top Walk<br />
<strong>Travel</strong>ling east from Pemberton towards<br />
Albany, the award-winning Valley of the<br />
Giants Tree Top Walk can be found<br />
close to the town of Walpole. This<br />
much-visited 600 metre walk across a<br />
series of raised bridges and elevated<br />
walkways provides panoramic views of<br />
the giant karri and red timbered jarrah<br />
tree canopies. <strong>The</strong> walk has been<br />
designed as a fun, interpretive experience<br />
and leads visitors past these monoliths<br />
of the forest.
Nature’s Window, Kalbarri National Park<br />
<strong>The</strong> coast at Kalbarri National Park<br />
Wildflowers in Kalbarri National Park<br />
Kalbarri National Park<br />
Perth to Exmouth drive<br />
Australia’s west coast is truly stunning and this<br />
exciting self-drive option between the<br />
cosmopolitan city of Perth and the coastal town<br />
of Exmouth is perfect for those who crave wide<br />
open spaces and unadulterated natural attractions.<br />
En route you will encounter stretches of rolling<br />
countryside and farmland punctuated with pockets<br />
of desert and eerie limestone formations, empty<br />
national parks pitted with deep gorges and<br />
blood-red escarpments, and an endless string of<br />
deserted beaches fringed with calm, turquoise<br />
waters. Closer to Exmouth the colourful reefs of<br />
the Ningaloo Marine Park provide a grand finale<br />
to the journey. Monkey Mia and the Pinnacles are<br />
the most popular attractions along this route but<br />
elsewhere this coastline remains largely unvisited,<br />
resulting in a warm and friendly welcome from<br />
locals wherever you choose to stop.<br />
Tropic of Capricorn, en route to Exmouth<br />
Shark Bay<br />
Kalbarri National Park<br />
Nestled at the mouth of the Murchison River and<br />
surrounded by a stunning coastline of soaring river<br />
gorges and bays, this park is known for its craggy<br />
landscapes, carved over millions of years into<br />
towering sandstone cliffs and curious rock<br />
formations. This is a particularly popular place<br />
during the winter as wildflowers erupt and cover<br />
the park with a riot of colour. <strong>The</strong> nearby town<br />
of Kalbarri is a welcoming place and a good base<br />
to explore the area. Walking trails of various<br />
lengths wind their way through the park with a<br />
number featuring excellent scenic lookouts. We<br />
recommend taking the popular Loop Walk, which<br />
takes walkers to various viewpoints including the<br />
park’s most famous site, Nature’s Window, a<br />
natural rock arch that superbly frames the<br />
upstream view of the Murchison Gorge.<br />
Dolphin, Monkey Mia<br />
Shark Bay<br />
Often overshadowed by the rival attraction of<br />
Monkey Mia located only a few miles away, the<br />
UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shark Bay<br />
provides a far less commercial experience and an<br />
array of beautiful natural attractions. <strong>The</strong> park is<br />
home to an extraordinary range of marine life<br />
and its landscapes are both colourful and diverse.<br />
A host of walking trails link sea cliffs, vibrant red<br />
dunes and tranquil lagoons where coral,<br />
mangrove and seagrass meadows support a<br />
prolific amount of sea life including nesting turtles,<br />
whales and dolphins.<br />
Monkey Mia<br />
This popular resort is set on the edge of the<br />
Shark Bay World Heritage Site and famed not<br />
only for its clear turquoise waters and white sandy<br />
bays, but for its resident bottlenose dolphins,<br />
which have been coming to feed from its shores<br />
since the 1960s. Although it is a popular attraction,<br />
the interaction between humans and dolphins is<br />
very carefully monitored with local rangers<br />
supervising the process. Whilst the dolphins are<br />
undoubtedly the highlight of any visit, this area is<br />
also rich in Aboriginal history and indigenous<br />
guides offer a range of walking and kayaking tours<br />
to help visitors understand the cultural significance<br />
of the region.<br />
www.audleytravel.com/australia l 01993 838 810 l <strong>Southwest</strong> 77
Ningaloo Marine Park<br />
This astonishing marine park is home to one<br />
of the region’s most precious natural<br />
resources, the UNESCO World Heritage<br />
listed Ningaloo Reef. This is one of the<br />
world’s longest fringing reefs as well as one<br />
of the few where you are able to swim from<br />
the beach straight to the coral, making its<br />
warm and clear waters perfect for snorkelling.<br />
<strong>The</strong> reef is home to a huge variety of marine<br />
life, with over 500 species of fish and 220<br />
species of tropical coral, though perhaps the<br />
most distinctive is the enormous whale shark,<br />
which is a seasonal favourite.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Ningaloo Marine Park<br />
Turtle, Ningaloo Marine Park<br />
Whale sharks<br />
Whilst playing home to a plethora of marine<br />
life year round, including a myriad of fish and<br />
kaleidoscopic coral, it is from April to July that<br />
the park really springs to life. <strong>The</strong> annual<br />
pilgrimage of the Rhincodon typus or whale shark<br />
to these waters attracts marine biologists and<br />
divers from around the world. <strong>The</strong> Ningaloo<br />
Marine Park is the only place in the world where<br />
whale sharks reliably appear each year, and<br />
despite being the biggest fish in the sea,<br />
snorkellers are able to swim close to these<br />
gentle giants.<br />
Diving and snorkelling on the reef<br />
<strong>The</strong> Ningaloo Marine Park has some of the<br />
purest and clearest waters in the world and its<br />
shallow lagoons and deeper offshore waters<br />
are home to a dazzling and diverse array of<br />
sea life of all sizes, from graceful manta rays<br />
to rare sea turtles, dugongs and dolphins.<br />
With the reef starting so close to the shore,<br />
experiencing all this could not be easier.<br />
While we can organise a boat trip for you, it is<br />
simple to just don a mask, walk off the beach<br />
and drift-snorkel to experience the colourful<br />
attractions beneath the surface.<br />
Cape Range National Park<br />
Blessed with a stunning array of mountain and<br />
coastal scenery, this rugged national park sits<br />
proudly on the tip of the Northwest Cape<br />
Peninsula. Riddled with caves, canyons and<br />
limestone gorges and fringed with over 50<br />
kilometres of pristine beaches and the turquoise<br />
waters of the Ningaloo Marine Park, it is a<br />
fascinating place to explore. Two lovely wilderness<br />
trails weave through the park showcasing its<br />
diversity of flora and fauna, which includes<br />
kangaroos, emus, echidnas and large lizards, while<br />
at Yardie Creek the trail along the gorge cliffs<br />
takes you to a deep canyon inhabited by rock<br />
wallabies. <strong>The</strong> small towns of Exmouth and Coral<br />
Bay are close by and provide an ideal base from<br />
Cape Range National Park<br />
which to explore the area. Sal Salis, Cape Range<br />
Sal Salis, Cape Range National Park<br />
78<br />
National Park<br />
Set just metres away from the Ningaloo Reef in<br />
the white sand dunes of the Cape Range National<br />
Park, this exclusive camp combines nature with<br />
luxury. Nine spacious wilderness tents have been<br />
designed to blend into the surrounding landscape.<br />
To preserve the fragile environment, all power is<br />
solar generated and water usage is very carefully<br />
monitored. While the emphasis remains on<br />
eco-luxury there are few compromises. Each tent<br />
is equipped with a comfortable bed and stunning<br />
views; the food is excellent and the attentive staff<br />
are on hand to help co-ordinate excursions<br />
around the local area.<br />
Cape Range National Park
Suggested itineraries<br />
Tailoring your trip<br />
<strong>The</strong> itineraries shown are designed to give you a<br />
flavour of what is possible, and are routes that<br />
work particularly well. We can use these as a basis<br />
to plan your trip or can design a completely<br />
different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests.<br />
Rottnest Island<br />
Fremantle<br />
Perth<br />
western<br />
australia<br />
Cape Range<br />
National Park<br />
Coral Bay<br />
Monkey Mia<br />
Exmouth<br />
western<br />
australia<br />
Please call one of our Australia specialists to start<br />
planning your itinerary.<br />
Telephone: 01993 838 810<br />
Getting around<br />
Most visitors to the <strong>Southwest</strong> fly into Perth or<br />
Exmouth and then collect a hire car and self-drive<br />
around the region. <strong>The</strong> roads are well maintained<br />
and largely empty with very little traffic away from<br />
the main urban centres. Domestic flights operate<br />
regularly between Exmouth, Perth and Albany and<br />
on to other regions of Australia. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong><br />
can easily be combined with other parts of<br />
Australia and forms a natural extension to a trip<br />
to the Northwest.<br />
Multi-region itineraries<br />
Many travellers combine several regions in one<br />
trip to Australia, and the excellent flight network<br />
makes this very easy. Please see pages 92-93 for<br />
further details.<br />
When to go<br />
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec<br />
33 33 33 33 3 3 3 3 33 3333 33<br />
33 <strong>The</strong> best time to travel.<br />
3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.<br />
~ <strong>Travel</strong> is possible, but this is not the best time of year.<br />
5 <strong>Travel</strong> is not recommended.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong> experiences a largely pleasant<br />
climate with temperatures never proving too cold<br />
even in the middle of winter. <strong>The</strong> summer months<br />
from December to March can be hot and the<br />
further north you travel the greater the humidity.<br />
<strong>The</strong> spring (October and November) and autumn<br />
(April and May) are perhaps the nicest seasons<br />
to travel with fewer visitors and an abundance<br />
of wildflowers.<br />
Time difference: GMT+8 hours<br />
Flight time from UK: 20 hours<br />
Prices<br />
We offer trips to cater for a wide range of<br />
budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices<br />
for your trip to Australia on our website,<br />
alternatively please call our specialists to discuss<br />
your plans.<br />
Margaret River<br />
<strong>Southwest</strong> Uncovered<br />
This well-paced itinerary reveals the natural beauty<br />
of the <strong>Southwest</strong>. Starting in Perth you will visit<br />
beautiful national parks, idyllic small towns and<br />
discover the glorious coastline of both the Indian<br />
and Southern Oceans.<br />
Day 1<br />
Day 2<br />
Day 3<br />
Day 4<br />
Day 5<br />
Day 6<br />
Day 7<br />
Day 8<br />
Day 9<br />
Day 10<br />
Day 11<br />
Day 12<br />
Day 13<br />
Day 14<br />
Fly to Perth.<br />
Day in flight.<br />
Arrive in Perth in the morning.<br />
Spend the afternoon strolling through<br />
Kings Park and the botanical gardens.<br />
Take a ferry trip across to Rottnest<br />
Island before hiring a bicycle to<br />
explore.<br />
Hop on the train to Fremantle and<br />
spend your day exploring the markets<br />
and historic centre.<br />
Drive to Albany.<br />
Walk the streets of this historic<br />
maritime town and explore convict<br />
jails, old taverns, whaling ships,<br />
settlers’ cottages and grand National<br />
Trust homes.<br />
Enjoy a morning whale-watching<br />
excursion. In the afternoon visit the<br />
Torndirrup National Park.<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> close to the Southern Ocean<br />
along the coastal road to Walpole<br />
and take the Tree Top Walk.<br />
Drive towards Margaret River and<br />
Busselton stopping at Bunker Bay for<br />
a relaxing day on the beach.<br />
Enjoy a morning walk along coastal<br />
trails keeping an eye out for migrating<br />
whales. Spend the rest of your day<br />
sampling wine in a boutique winery.<br />
Return to Perth. Spend your evening<br />
watching a beautiful Indian Ocean<br />
sunset at a restaurant in Cottesloe.<br />
Fly overnight from Perth to the UK.<br />
Arrive in the UK.<br />
Tree Top<br />
Walk<br />
Albany<br />
Kalbarri National Park<br />
Western Australia<br />
Less <strong>Travel</strong>led<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> the empty roads north of Perth on this epic<br />
itinerary that includes a rich diversity of attractions<br />
and scenery. Experience spectacular national parks,<br />
wild coastlines, historic towns and the amazing<br />
marine life of the area, including whale sharks,<br />
manta rays and turtles.<br />
Day 1<br />
Day 2<br />
Day 3<br />
Day 4<br />
Day 5<br />
Day 6<br />
Day 7<br />
Day 8<br />
Day 9<br />
Day 10<br />
Day 11<br />
Day 12<br />
Day 13<br />
Day 14<br />
Day 15<br />
Nambung National Park<br />
Rottnest Island<br />
Fly to Perth.<br />
Day in flight.<br />
Arrive in Perth in the morning.<br />
Spend the afternoon strolling through<br />
Kings Park and the botanical gardens.<br />
Take a ferry trip across to Rottnest<br />
Island before hiring a bicycle to<br />
explore.<br />
Hop on the train to Fremantle and<br />
spend your day wandering around the<br />
markets and historic centre.<br />
Drive north to Nambung National<br />
Park and explore the remarkable<br />
Pinnacles Desert.<br />
Continue to Kalbarri National Park<br />
and take one of the walking trails<br />
past canyons and dramatic rock<br />
formations.<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> to Monkey Mia.<br />
Enjoy a relaxing day at Monkey Mia<br />
feeding the dolphins and unwinding<br />
on the beautiful beach.<br />
Drive along the coast to Coral Bay.<br />
Arrive in Exmouth and head out to<br />
the Ningaloo Reef. Walk off the<br />
beach, snorkel over bright coral and<br />
marvel at the marine life.<br />
Spend the day exploring the amazing<br />
Cape Range National Park.<br />
Fly from Exmouth to Perth and spend<br />
a night back in Perth. <strong>Travel</strong> out to<br />
Cottesloe Beach to watch the sun set<br />
over the Indian Ocean and reflect on<br />
your trip.<br />
Spend the day in Perth. Fly overnight<br />
to the UK.<br />
Arrive in the UK.<br />
Perth<br />
Fremantle<br />
www.audleytravel.com/australia l 01993 838 810 l <strong>Southwest</strong> 79