The Magic Blog

You’ve treated your car to a gleaming hand wash, now it’s time to show it off and take to the road for a West Australian getaway.

Whether you have a day, a weekend or a week to explore, get your driving playlist ready for a road trip that will have you feeling like you’re starring in a car commercial. Cruise through country hills, past glistening coastlines, spectacular deserts and enjoy some of our favourite scenic rides and trips out of Perth.

 

Lancelin

Approx. 1hr 30 drive

If your ideal activity involves a road trip followed by yet more driving, Lancelin is the place for you. Head north of Perth to find the home of rolling sand dunes where you can let loose with a 4WD and take a spin across the white sand. If you’re eager to get out from behind the wheel, experience the dunes on an off-road bike or sandboard instead, or simply take in the stunning sunsets.

 

Photo: lancelin.com.au

With a beautiful variety of beaches just north and south of the main bay, the area is also a great spot for fishing, kite and windsurfing, swimming, boating and surfing.

 

Margaret River

Approx. 3 hrs drive

Famous for being home to world-class wineries, whale watching, fishing, coastal hiking trails and stunning beaches for surfing, kayaking, swimming and stand up paddling, not to mention that the area is brimming with delicious eateries; foodies and adventurers alike will love Margaret River.

 

Photo: margaretriver.com

Provided you have a designated driver or a stopover planned, take in the region’s stunning vineyard locations with a winery tour. Alternatively, if wine isn’t your thing, check out the local craft beer scene, leading the way in WA’s recent microbrewery boom.

While you’re here, take a drive down Caves Road for a scenic road trip past the ocean and through tall forests, dotted with 350 hidden limestone caves underneath the Margaret River area. If you have the time, you can continue along the road all the way down to Augusta, taking in the dazzling coastline, small towns and surf spots along the way.

 

Nannup

Approx. 3 hrs drive

Known as the ‘Golden Triangle’, the route between Balingup, Nannup and Bridgetown is one of the most scenic drives in the state, passing through rolling country hills, valleys, rivers and tall forests. Although the drive between these towns can be done in an hour and a half, the stops along the way are what makes the trip all the more interesting.

 

Photo: instagram.com/australiassw

Take a secluded dip in the hidden Barrabup Pool. Surrounded by bushland, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing wild swim. Sample local ciders, spot wildlife in Donnelly Village, and if you’re passing through during September to April, stop for a visit at the charming Balingup Lavender Farm.

 

Albany

Approx. 5 hrs drive

Heading further south, you’ll find the romance of Albany, with heritage buildings, charming cafes, rolling hills and pristine beaches on the south coast of WA. The area is home to yet more southern wineries, along with walking trails in the Stirling Range National Park. Drive down to The Gap and Natural Bridge for tantalising cliff top views across the Southern Ocean.

 

Photo: australiassouthwest.com

As you head back to Perth, explore Denmark and surrounding areas by heading west along the southern coastline. Continue on to the Walpole-Nornalup National Park for a tree top walk through the forest canopies, offering panoramic views of some of Western Australia’s tingle trees.

 

The Coral Coast  

Approx. 13 hr drive

Plan this enchanting road trip along the Indian Ocean coastline across a week, leaving you plenty of time to stop off at all the must see places along one of Western Australia’s most scenic drives enroute to Exmouth.

Roughly 190 km into your journey from Perth, you’ll reach The Pinnacles. Stop to see these 30,000 year old limestone spires for yourself, the formations sit within the desert at the Nambung National Park.

 

Photo: australiascoralcoast.com

Continue beach hopping on to Geraldton where you’ll find the best rock lobster in WA, along with great windsurfing spots, ocean sunsets and museums. Further along, hike or kayak through the red rock river gorges of Kalbarri, spot wild dolphins in Monkey Mia or try a spot of snorkelling over the Ningaloo Reef or Coral Bay.

During August and October, the coast up to Geraldton is blooming with wildflowers, but for whale shark swimming, head up to Exmouth between April and July.

 

Photo: australiascoralcoast.com

After your epic journey, bring your ride back in to Magic to keep that sparkling shine lasting long after your adventure ends.

 

Topics:   Road Trip