The inland route from Perth to Bunbury takes in Harvey and the surrounding green farmlands, home to an impressive range of boutique and family-owned wineries, breweries and distilleries, each with its own unique charms.
One of the town’s main attractions is Stirling Cottage, which was originally built on the banks of the Harvey River by the first Governor of Western Australia, Governor Stirling. The cottage was lived in by many pioneering farming families, but most famously was the home of May Gibbs, author of beloved children’s storybook characters, Snugglepot and Cuddlepie. The visitor centre is on site too, and includes as dedicated display area to May Gibbs’ stories.
Many of the big food guys are here, including Harvey Beef, Brownes Dairy and Harvey Fresh. To the east, the Darling Scarp and its ruggedly beautiful jarrah forest, lush greenery and natural waterways are an adventure playground with spectacular views. Water-lovers can head west to experience the Harvey Region’s 42 kilometres of virtually untouched coastline.
FOOD EXPERIENCES
A visit to the Harvey Region wouldn’t be complete without tasting award-winning cheeses, Harvey oranges, locally made crafts and preserves and visiting many award-winning family wineries to sample locally grown Chardonnay and Shiraz. Of course, you haven’t had the full Harvey orange experience until you’ve climbed the Big Orange at Harvey River Estate. This 14-metre tower sits high above the beautiful orchards and is a great way to take in the region’s magnificent views.
TRACKS, TRAILS AND DRIVES
For the road-trippers and adventurers out there, the Harvey Region has no shortage of tracks, trails and drives for you to explore. Hike the stunning Wildflower Ridge Walk off Honeymoon Road, admire work by local Noongar artists along the Noongar Kaartdijin Bidee art walk, or stroll around Lake Josephine in Yalgorup National Park – a picturesque lake that turns bright pink in winter thanks to the Red Samphire blooms.
Want to get off-road? Drive your 4WD straight onto the sand at Myalup Beach, Belvidere Beach or Buffalo Beach. Keen MTB riders will love the Harvey Region section of the famous Munda Biddi Trail – the world’s longest continuous off-road cycling track. Jump on at Logue Brook and set off on your adventure!
ACCOMMODATION AND CAMPING
Camping is popular all year round in the Harvey Region (especially at the Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park) and wet winter weather can’t stop the fun. Lake Brockman Tourist Park, on the shores of Logue Brook Dam and surrounded by the beautiful state forest, has a range of cabins available – as well as private glamping tents with lake views!
Head to the beach to take in ocean views right from your doorstep. Myalup Beach Caravan Park, Binningup Beach Caravan Park, and Australind Tourist Park are all great places to set up if you want quick access to the water and the true coastal experience. Or, take to the sky for a unique getaway at Binningup Treehouse Eco Retreat – where you’re sure to be greeted by some of the friendly birds that live in the peppermint tree surrounds.
