After a proper scorcher this summer, many of us are looking to the cooler Autumn months to take off and enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of city life. With thousands of kilometres of quality roads leading deep into the wilderness, Western Australia offers holidaymakers like yourself a range of perfect getaways.
But where should you set your sights?
Whether you’re leaving tomorrow morning, or next week here are some of WA’s most stunning road trip locations to explore this season:
1. Gracetown
Only 3 hours drive south of Perth and nestled in one of the region’s most beautiful bays is Gracetown. Whether you’re a surfer, fisher, wine connoisseur, foodie, or all of these, Gracetown offers travellers an unforgettable time surrounded by diverse natural beauty and excellent gourmet food and drinks. The town is also the halfway stop of the Cape to Cape walking trail. This makes it a vibrant hub of activity for hikers, families and locals alike.
Hit the popular reef breaks in the bay – with some of the best left-handers in the region you won’t be disappointed. If you’re after a more relaxed day on the surf, head to Huzza’s reef break or if you’re after something more challenging paddle out from North Point to take advantage of the larger open barrels.
2. Gascoyne-Murchison Region
During summer the Gascoyne-Murchison Region is a tough sell with soaring temperatures and dry dusty weather. Come autumn though, and after a sprinkle of rain, the whole region springs to life with stunning scenery. That’s when you should visit. As the season approaches winter the Gascoyne River slowly begins to fill up – as does the Wooleen River providing excellent fishing opportunities – not to mention water sport activities like canoeing or hiking along the banks.
With plenty of local campsites dotted around the region, you can set up tents in some of the most remote parts of the State. If you’re after a more luxurious place to stay there are a variety of homesteads with gardens, open fireplaces, swimming pools and a cellar packed with delicious Western Aussie wines.
3. Esperance
If you’re after a truly unique coastal experience – Esperance and the Cape Le Grand National Park are your must-go locations for a solid road trip in Western Australia.
Don’t be perturbed by the long drive – there are endless places to stay on the way there – plus you’ll be rewarded at the end by white sand squeaking between your toes and miles of deserted beach with incredible swimming and fishing opportunities.
Make sure you take off for a drive along the coast to visit the pretty 11 Mile Beach and Twilight Beach. If you’re up for a challenge, hike to the top of Frenchmen Peak for scenic 360-degree views of the surroundings – or try your luck with the Autumn salmon run which occurs from March to April.
4. Albany and the Porongurups
Autumn can also be hotter than expected and you may find yourself craving cooler temperatures in one of Western Australia’s most southerly getaways: Albany and the nearby Porongorup mountains. A 6-hour drive south and you’re already surrounded by tall trees, sprawling hills, rugged granite rock formations and vibrant animal life. Easily accessible by taking the Albany highway south from Perth and passing through the historical town of Mt Barker, where you should stop to sample some of the local foods and wines.
With plenty of attractions such as the Granite Skywalk, Castle Rock and Devil’s Slide hiking trail this region is popping with surprises for weary travellers in need of a breath of fresh air.
Down in Albany you’ve got access to some of WA’s most stunning coastline, fishing, whale watching and surfing. With an abundance of accommodation from hotels, private homestays, and luxury villas, make the most of the cooler weather before returning north.
5. Coolgardie to Laverton
The Goldfields region is one of WA’s most stunning road trip locations and autumn is the ideal time to visit. With brilliant blue skies during the day and blazing stars by night, it’s the perfect getaway for anyone wanting to leave the city behind and be in the natural world.
Road trippers should take the Golden Quest Discovery Trail – a stunning slice of outback life spread over 4 days of driving through some of Australia’s most stunning desert landscapes. Visit the famous mining town of Kalgoorlie, crack open a beer at one of the local pubs and enjoy a tasty burger at the broad Arrow Tavern located half an hour’s drive north of town.
The right car for the job? The Subaru Forester, of course.
Right now you might be thinking my little hatchback won’t manage any of that!
You’re right. It probably won’t. You need a car that will take you to the next level – to experience the locations not seen on your Google maps. The Subaru Forester is the West Aussie choice for the road. With plenty of space in the boot, symmetrical all-wheel drive, and a formidable record when it comes to the terrain – you can be sure that the all-new Subaru Forester is up for the challenge of your next big road trip.
Visit your local Subaru dealership today and book a test drive.
