The drive down south is regular trip for those living in Perth. In just over two and a half hours, you'll be passing through charming country towns, rolling vineyards, towering forests and some of WA's most beautiful coastline.
If you’re heading down south for a weekend escape from Perth to Busselton, and want to hit all the hidden spots on one of Western Australia's most rewarding road trips, read on for our guide to the best places to stop between Perth and Busselton.
The Lake Clifton Thrombolites are fragile living fossils, over 2,000 years old. Image: Explore Parks WA
Yupp, you read that right, there’s a national park, just south of Mandurah!
In this 13,000 hectare national park lies one of WA's hidden natural wonders, the Lake Clifton Thrombolites.
Take a walk along the board walk to see these living and breathing microbial structures that are among the oldest life forms on Earth.
Is there anything better than a Big Orange? Image: Harvey region.
Harvey is one of those special little towns that makes for a great country stop. Known for its fruit and fresh produce, you’ll get a great taste of Harvey while enjoying the views over lush, rolling fields.
Did you know that Trails WA named Collie an official Trail Town? Image: Tourism WA
If you're looking to swap the coast for towering jarrah forests, freshwater lakes and outdoor adventure, take the inland detour out to Collie.
Over the past few years, Collie has transformed into one of Western Australia's premier adventure destinations. Home to the world-famous Wellington Dam Mural, the spectacular Wellington National Park, crystal-clear lakes and more than 120 kilometres of mountain bike trails, it's the perfect place to spend a day.
If you're planning to explore everything the region has to offer, Collie Tourist Park is the ideal base. Located close to the town centre and just a short drive from Collie's top attractions, it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of hiking, mountain biking or exploring the South West's hidden gems.
Meet the locals on your trip through Bunbury! Image: Tourism WA.
Good old Bunbury never disappoints. Western Australia's second-largest city has plenty to offer, from the famous Bunbury Farmer’s Market, dolphin feedings to the best shopping to be found in the South West.
If you'd like to explore Bunbury and the surrounding Geographe region, Bunbury Apartment Motel offers a comfortable base just minutes from the city centre, beaches and local attractions. With spacious self-contained apartments, it's ideal for families, couples and business travellers alike.
Capel is a peaceful country town known for its peppermint trees and relaxed atmosphere. Nearby Peppermint Grove Beach is a beautiful place for a quiet stroll before continuing south.
As you pass through, you can choose the scenic route and drive through the magnificent Ludlow Tuart Forest.
These ancient tuart trees create one of the most picturesque drives in the South West and are unique to this part of Western Australia.
Have a feed at Shelter Brewing Co, and enjoy the delightful Busselton Foreshore. Image: Tourism WA.
And here we are, one of WA's favourite holiday destinations.
Busselton is one of those perfect getaways where the beaches and outdoor adventures perfectly blend to create those treasured family memories.
It’s so easy to drive straight down from Perth to Busselton, but there’s nothing better than taking your time and poking into those nook and crannies to find the local country towns and what they offer.
Next time you head down south, follow our guide to everything to see from Perth to Busselton!
