If you’ve got limited time in the South West, or just want to tick off those quintessential winter experiences, we’ve got you covered. We searched the region, asked the locals and came up with the below list to help make your winter down south a memorable one.
Where to Go to Get the Winter Experiences You Want
Bunbury Geographe and The Great Southern for Misty Mornings
Some of the most magical times are when you wake up early to watch the rest of the world wake around you. Mist is formed when small droplets of water are suspended in air and occurs when there’s a change in air temperature. Technicals aside, it makes for some postcard-worthy vistas. Plan a stay at Balingup Heights Hilltop Forest Cottages and wake up to misty mornings with stunning views. The hilly inland areas of the Blackwood River Valley and the Great Southern also have some of the most magical misty views.
Margaret River and Pemberton for Falls and Cascades
Inland rivers are brimming with water after winter rains and the surrounding lush green forests or farmland make for particularly pretty winter expeditions. The Southern Forests and Valleys have an oversupply of beautiful spots including The Cascades and Fernhook Falls near Walpole and Beedelup Falls near Pemberton. If you’re in the Margaret River region, check out Quininup Falls.
The Southern Forests & Valleys and Bunbury Geographe for Vast Emerald and Turquoise Lakes
While the beautiful colours of Collie’s lakes have been known to the region for years, the recent posting of these lakes on Instagram has made them an internet hit. Who knew water could be this shade of blue? Check out Black Diamond near Collie.
The Margaret River Region, Pemberton, Ferguson Valley & The Great Southern for Winery Tours
The best way to spend a winter's day and still take part in activities? Wine tours of course! You’ll be chauffeured in the warm comfort of a charter bus or vehicle from cellar door to brewery to produce stop, with a hearty lunch somewhere in between. The Margaret River region has plenty of tour options to choose from, and other wine regions such as Pemberton and the Great Southern (Try Busy Blue Bus) have tours available too. Alternatively, opt for one of the winery experiences, such as a Behind the Scenes tour at Cape Mentelle, a private tasting in the luxurious Howard Park Wine Chapel or a sit-down lunch at St Aidans in the Ferguson Valley.
Albany, Augusta, Dunsborough or Busselton for Whale Watching
Depending on what time of the year you visit, whale watching tours will be running from Albany, Augusta, Dunsborough or Busselton. The season starts in Albany and Augusta from June to August as the whales head north, then they hug close to the coast around Dunsborough and Busselton as they return south from September to mid-December. Click here to plan your whale watching adventure.