Of the almost two million people that live in Western Australia, the vast majority reside in the state’s capital of Perth. A sophisticated and
scenic city, it is not hard to understand why so many are drawn to this very special and unique corner of the globe.
Perth was settled on the banks of the Swan River in the 1800s and to this day remains an uncomplicated and clean city that leaves a lasting impression
on all of its visitors.
Characterised by numerous waterways, green parks and a compact city centre, Perth’s brilliant blue skies and warm sunny climate must be experienced
to be believed.
There is plenty to see and do in Perth. You can tour the city by motorised tram or courtesy bus; partake in the many water sports on the Swan River; enjoy
a glass of Western Australian wine in a riverside or beachside restaurant; or explore one of the city’s most popular icons - the 400 hectares of natural bush that form
the spectacular Kings Park in the centre of the city.
Perth is also the home of the world’s oldest operating mint; numerous museums and art galleries, historic character buildings, a five-star resort
and casino and a great variety of shopping - all of which are only minutes from the CBD.
There is good shopping available, world-class golf courses, countless outdoor activities and experiences to enjoy, and over 80 kilometres of white
sandy beaches to sunbathe on. A popular beach is Cottesloe, a pretty crescent of sand with safe swimming and a small surf break. Another one popular with locals and
visitors alike is Scarborough, which has white sand stretching for miles.
Perth is an ideal base from which you can explore the diverse surrounding attractions too. Only minutes away, you can visit wineries with sumptuous lunches, swim
with wild dolphins in their natural environment, holiday on an island bouncing with native marsupials, and explore the colourful port city of Fremantle
Perth Highlights!!
Rottnest Island
Rottnest, or ‘Rotto’ as it is affectionately known by Western Australians, is a small island situated just off the coast of Perth, famous for
its snorkelling, diving, surfing and swimming. The semi-arid Mediterranean style climate and indigenous flora and fauna of this island provide the backdrop to a special
holiday experience.
The diversity of fish, and the numerous shipwrecks found around the island make Rottnest Island a favourite site for divers and snorkellers. There are thirteen historic
shipwrecks found here and many species of tropical fish make their home in and around the numerous reefs.
Rottnest Island boasts some of the best surfing conditions in the state. Strickland Bay, Salmon Bay and Stark Bay in particular are popular for surfers and bodyboarders.
The swimming at Rottnest is superb with many sheltered bays and beaches perfect for a day in the water. Rottnest Island is also popular site for recreational fishing.
One reason for the idyllic atmosphere is the absence of cars. Bicycles are the popular mode of transport and can be hired on the island. There are many other land-based activities
available including
guided historical tours and the local golf course.
Rottnest wouldn’t be Rottnest without the quokkas, the
small marsupials which inhabit the island and were the inspiration for the island’s name. The guided ‘quokka walk’ is a popular way of viewing these cuddly
creatures.
There is a range of accommodation available on the island including villas, units, bungalows, cabins, tent sites and youth hostel facilities The Rottnest Hotel and Rottnest
Lodge also offer accommodation.
Getting to Rottnest is easy. Ferry services leave daily from Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour in Sorrento, while charter plane services are also available.
Pinnacles
The Pinnacles make a scenic trip and have the virtue of being close to civilisation and creature
comforts! Just three hours from the centre of Perth, they make a highly enjoyable day trip. They lie in the heart of Nambung National Park on the coast of Western Australia
north of Perth and just south of Jurien Bay. Alternatively, the seaside town of Cervantes - just 245 kilometres from Perth up the Brand Highway -makes a good base and offers
a range of accommodation. You can drive by standard car or take a four-wheel drive.
The turnoff to the park is on Cervantes Road, which runs off the Brand Highway. Easy. Once there the possibilities are many. While many are attracted to
the park by the Pinnacles, it offers much more - fields of stunning wildflowers, great swimming spots with white sandy beaches, and some rewarding walks offering wonderful
views.
Drivers without a caravan or a trailer may like a one-way loop track weaving throughout the Pinnacles. There is also a short walking trail of 500
metres which gives onto several lookouts with views sweeping from the Pinnacles to the coast.
There are two popular fishing spots in the park, one at Kangaroo Point and one at Hangover Bay. Bushwalking is popular here, and is often said
to be the best way to experience the Pinnacles as long as you take plenty of your own water and wear sturdy footwear. No camping sites are designated. Few mind however,
because a good choice of accommodation is provided at nearby Cervantes.
Eat out in Perth!
Boasting more restaurants per head of population than any other Australian city, Perth loves to go out to eat and meet. Try Cottesloe Beach for
casual eats or Subiaco for a more dressed-up style.
City of Arts
Perth’s Art Gallery of Western Australia has a wonderful collection, or for a more contemporary art view, try the Perth Institute of Contemporary
Arts and the Craftwest Centre for Contemporary Craft.
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