Perth, Wildlife and Wine Escape

G’day and welcome to Perth! On arrival pick up your hire car and make your way to the coastal suburb of Fremantle, or ‘Freo’ to the locals. Discover UNESCO-lined streets, learn about the city’s fascinating convict history and discover an array of al fresco cafes and craft breweries. With its proximity to the port, Fremantle is the ideal spot from which to visit Rottnest Island. On a day of your choosing, hop on the ferry to Rottnest Island and join an air-conditioned coach tour taking in the islands flora, fauna, beaches, woodlands and salt lakes. You will even have your chance to snap a quokka selfie.

The rest of your time in Fremantle is at leisure. Why not jump on the train to Perth city centre and wander around Elizabeth Quay or explore the lush Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Alternatively check out some of Perth’s other neighbourhoods - don’t miss a visit to the iconic Cottesloe Beach, a beautiful white sandy bay and an ideal spot from which to catch one of Western Australia’s amazing sunsets.

Depart Perth and head south to the town of Rockingham, just a 40 minute drive from the capital. Just off the coast of Rockingham lies the pristine islands and reefs of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, where you will be heading out for an amazing wild dolphin swim experience.

You will be kitted out in a wetsuit, mask and snorkel before the search for wild dolphins begins. There are over 200 local bottlenose dolphins that live amongst the sheltered waters of Rockingham’s bays and islands. Once the skipper locates some dolphins, your guide will accompany you into the water with no more than seven other people. Each group is led by a guide using an aqua scooter to tow you right amongst the dolphins. You will get the chance to see the dolphins playing within inches of where you’re peacefully floating at the surface. 

After this bucket list encounter, drive another 30 minutes south to the beautiful coastal town of Mandurah, filled with waterways and canals, pretty tree lined walkways, and lots of bars and restaurants. This is where you will spend the night.

Keep driving south to Margaret River, on route why not stop in Busselton to stretch your legs on a walk along the 1.8-kilometre Busselton jetty. Your final stop is Yallingup in the heart of Margaret River. This laidback beach town is surrounded by the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Parks with easy access to outstanding beaches, amazing walking trails and world-class vineyards. Spend the next few days relaxing and exploring at leisure.

Why not walk a section of the 135km Cape to Cape track, head up the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse; Australia’s tallest mainland lighthouse and see where the Southern Ocean meets the Indian Ocean. Taste the regions finest wine or join a brewery tour and if your here between June and September you might be lucky enough to spot migrating humpback, southern right or blue whales on a whale watching tour from Augusta. 

Sadly your holiday has come to an end. Head back to Perth, drop off your hire car and continue your onward journey. Want to spend some more time in Australia? Speak to one of our travel experts today.