Impressive landscapes, mouth-watering food and wine, fascinating history and breathtaking nature – what more could you want from Western Australia?
Just a three-hour drive south from Perth, the only city Down Under to offer a direct flight from the UK, visitors will find Australia’s South West region. One of only 34 biodiversity hotspots in the world, it’s home to more than 20 national parks and more than 8,000 species of native flora and fauna. In fact, almost 80% of the plant species in the South West are found nowhere else on Earth.
Visitors will find themselves surrounded by karri trees soaring towards the sky, secluded beaches where waves are surf-ready and, for those that explore underground, a cave system made up of limestone labyrinths. Boranup Forest, Mammoth Cave, Jewel Cave, Dunsborough, Yallingup and the Valley of the Giants are all places to make a beeline for when in search of these outdoor adventures.
If visitors to the South West cast their gaze out to the ocean, humpback whales can be spotted making their migration between July and November. Southern right whales and blue whales are also regular guests, and there’s even the chance to see the southern hemisphere’s largest orca pod in a deep-sea canyon.
But it’s not just nature and wildlife that makes Australia’s South West stand out. Wineries, breweries, distilleries and cideries abound in the Margaret River region, where visitors will find a treasure trail of Aussie delicacies to tantalise their tastebuds and pair with local liquors. Think marron and trout for seafood lovers and venison for carnivores. Cheeses, chocolates and the rare black truffle also offer a taste of Margaret River.
To find out more about where these foods come from, visitors can dive into the coastal towns between Denmark, Pemberton and Manjimup to meet the artisan producers that provide Australia’s South West with its gourmet food scene.
Venturing east from Denmark brings travellers to Albany, a coastal town waiting to tell the story of the Anzacs. With this enticing history, eclectic food and remarkable environment, there’s no doubt visitors to Australia’s South West will want to return.
Gold Medal’s Perth & South West self-drive itinerary includes:
Prices for this 10-night trip start from £1,479pp, which saves travellers up to £695pp. Offer valid for departures on May 6, 2019. Agents will earn £46 Farebank Rewards (doubled from £23) when they book this package.
“I found the South West ideal for a self-drive. It’s great for first-time visitors as the roads are easy to navigate and there’s very little traffic, plus there are plenty of picturesque coffee stops along the way. Leaving Perth and heading south you’ll soon arrive in Rockingham, the ideal spot to swim with dolphins! Busselton’s jetty is perfect for a stroll in the sunshine and makes a great backdrop against the inviting beach. Margaret River region is a must do too – the locals are very friendly and many of the boutique wineries are keen to welcome guests through their cellar doors.”
Agents receive double Farebank Rewards on all Western Australia package bookings (flight plus minimum three nights accommodation) made with Gold Medal between March 1 and April 17.
Watch the Western Australia masterclass with Gold Medal Facebook Live for more information.
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