#1 Big towns, quaint charm

Just a half hour’s drive or train ride away from Perth’s central business district (CBD) is the stunning port town of Fremantle. Affectionately called ‘Freo’ by the locals, this unique bohemian destination brings together all the nostalgia of the past with the vibrancy of a contemporary city.

Home to the largest collection of heritage-listed buildings in WA, Fremantle has a heritage trail that features 150 structures classified by the National Trust. As you go along, the historic streetscape will bleed into that of a lively port hub. Soak in the calming views of the harbour at Cappuccino Strip as you savour a steaming cup of boardwalk coffee, or stop by the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour for a plate of fish and chips, fresh from the day’s catch!

More than 100 traders sell their wares at Fremantle Market every weekend, from food and clothing to art products and homeware – perfect for some retail therapy without breaking the bank.

#2 Pampering fit for royalty

The hectic rush of working life seldom affords urbanites the break they deserve; fortunately, WA will be just the fix you need! Indulge in the best food luxury can afford, pair it with the lush scenery of the region, and leave all your work woes behind you as you embark on a healing trip. 

Just 25 minutes east of Perth, the Swan Valley - Australia’s oldest wine-growing region - is a world away from city life and is best experienced by following its signature Food & Wine Trail. Spanning 32 kilometres, it will take you past more than 150 wineries, eateries, and art galleries – all of which offer the finest food and wine you can sample without the hassle of figuring out directions to each location yourself. Besides fine food and wine, there are many other passions you can indulge in, from horse riding, cycling, hiking and golf to wildlife, art, history and Indigenous culture. 

For some family fun of the furry variety, head to Caversham Wildlife Park - home to one of Western Australia's largest collections of native Australian wildlife where close encounters with koalas, wombats, kangaroos and a whole array of farm animals can be found. 

Mundaring is known as the Heart of the Hills, and for good reason! Nestled in the rich region of Perth Hills, it is home to a majestic forest, bushwalking trails dotted with wildflowers, as well as flora and fauna native to WA. Choose to have a luxurious picnic by the sparkling waters of Lake Leschenaultia, or savour award-winning gourmet wines and meals as you traverse the dazzling greenery.

For a taste of WA’s local produce, make your way to Bickley and Carmel Valleys, where clusters of boutique wineries, vineyards, and open orchards await. Here, you can also explore the forest in style – by riding a camel!

#3 Sand, surf, and sea

Surf’s up in WA, where the spectacular sun-kissed coastline meets breathtaking views of the sea and sky. Perth alone has a string of 19 beaches that plays host to numerous activities – be it wet and wild fun like surfing and snorkelling, or the rest and relaxation that comes with dining by the beach and watching the sun set.

Anticipate quality hours of blissful relaxation at Cockburn Sound and Rockingham Beach, where the sheltered waters lap gently against the shore as you choose between snorkelling, sun tanning, and all manner of rejuvenation. Closer to Perth, towering Norfolk pines and sloping grassy banks add a touch of colour to Cottesloe Beach, rightfully earning it its reputation as one of the most photographed and popular beaches in WA.

Nearby, separated by a small cove, is Floreat – an expanse of pristine white sand that stretches all the way to Scarborough. Kick back in Floreat during the day before making your way to Scarborough in the evenings, where you can find the only beach amphitheatre in WA and a host of events all throughout the year.

For those looking for an up-and-close experience with the intelligent creatures of the sea, beachgoers should take Mandurah’s renowned boat cruise through the canals, where adorable bottle-nosed dolphins often come around to play with their human friends. There, you'll also find some of Australia's most spectacular waterways, including the Peel-Harvey estuary, which is twice the size of Sydney Harbour and blessed with abundant wildlife, pristine beaches, beautiful blue-green waters and a buzzing foreshore area.

#4 A return to nature

Perhaps one of the best ways to escape from city life is occasionally to detach yourself from it completely. A common misconception of outdoor activities is that they are always physically demanding, but that isn’t the case with the many things you can do out and about in WA!

Nature aficionados will feel right at home in any one of WA’s national parks. Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is testament to more wonders of nature unique to WA, where the sands of time have crafted magnificent limestone spires up to 5 metres tall. Take in the sights as you stroll along their special walking trail at your own leisure, or breeze through it on a desert ride!

Northam in Avon Valley will be part of the most mesmerising, memorable experiences in WA should you choose to take up their star attraction – hot air ballooning over the rolling hills and pastures laying unawares below you. Avon River flows through the town, blessing it with scenic countryside and tree-lined grassy banks popular with picnickers.

Regardless if adventure or relaxation is your cup of tea, there is something in WA for everyone. Check out here for some affordable ground packages!