By Rama Gaind.
Witness one of the largest collections of wildflowers on earth, north of Perth, in Western Australia.
Before travelling within your state, territory or interstate, err on the side of caution and check on the official requirements before you venture to cross the borders. Do be mindful of the strict controls to limit the spread of COVID-19.
If you looking to be surprised and inspired, then look to having extraordinary holiday experiences in Western Australia. You need more than a couple of days to see WA because distances between the many attractions are great. Also, take up one of the special deals following a partnership deal between Tourism Western Australia, Qantas and Virgin Australia.
Start with Perth where there are a few day tours to great destinations that will give you a taste of what the state has to offer, visiting such spectacular destinations as Rottnest Island. However, to really appreciate the state’s wild beauty, you need to spend a few weeks at least exploring north or south of the capital visiting unforgettable places like Ningaloo Reef, the Kimberly, Valley of the Giants and Esperance.
The southwest region is home to beaches with white sand and crystal-clear water, towering Karri forests and world class wines. Some of the best places to visit in this country corner include Margaret River, famous for its premier wines and delicious local produce, and Esperance, where the local kangaroos enjoy the pristine beaches just as much as the people.
Perth, capital of Western Australia, sits where the Swan River meets the southwest coast.
Travelling north of Perth offers you the opportunity to visit many unique spots, and the landscape gets wilder and more remote the further up you venture. The unusual landscape of the Pinnacles is one of the first places you visit as you head up the coast, and as you continue north, you can stop at Monkey Mia, to visit the famous dolphins, and Kalbarri.
If you happen to enjoy nature-based tourism, then head for the Ningaloo Reef from Coral Bay or Exmouth. At the reef, you can swim straight off the beach, dive and snorkel amongst the enchanting sea life.
Karijini National Park, El Questro and the Kimberly in the north offer stunning waterfalls, plunge pools and gorges for tourists to discover. The ancient Stromatolites in Hamelin Pool are an exceptional appeal, where time stands still to offer a glimpse of what life was like billions of years ago. You will also feel dwarfed by the breathtaking Karri forests.
Incredible sights
WA is home to one of the largest collections on earth of dazzling wildflowers, carpeted in the colourful blooms of more than 12,000 species, 60 per cent of which can’t be found anywhere else on the planet. Wildflower season begins in June in the north and finishes on the south coast in November. Located only a few hours north of Perth, there’s a lot on offer.
Enjoy 180-degree panoramic views of the Swan River, cityscape, Darling Range and beyond from Kings Park and Botanic Garden.
Wildflower country is the collective group of nine local government areas: Carnamah, Coorow, Dalwallinu, Greater Geraldton – including Mullewa, Moora, Morowa, Mingenew, Perenjori and Three Springs.
Perth sits where the Swan River meets the southwest coast. Sandy beaches line its suburbs, and the huge, riverside Kings Park and Botanic Garden on Mount Eliza offer sweeping views of the city. Take in a photogenic cityscape from the Swan River and its foreshore where you can go for a walk, cycle, jog, picnic, sail, fish or take a river cruise. Hop on the ferry to south Perth or relax on the beach at Matilda Bay. Follow the river to Fremantle and gaze in awe at some of Perth’s most opulent riverside residences.
Alternatively, join the Swan Valley’s Fresh Seasonal Produce Trail, an inspirational journey where you’ll meet the people behind the produce that tantalise the tastebuds.
Special airfares
Tourism Western Australia has teamed with Qantas and Virgin Australia to further encourage West Australians to explore the state. Through this partnership, Qantas will offer one-way fares between Perth and Exmouth from November 2020 for 12 months, priced at $149 one-way during low season (October 25-March 27, when booked 30 days in advance), and $169 during high season (March 28-October 30, when booked 45 days in advance).
Or cruise to the upper reaches to sample the fruits and heritage of Western Australia’s oldest wine region – the Swan Valley.
Virgin Australia will sell airfares between Perth and Broome from $199 one-way between November 2, 2020 and October 30, 2021, or to Kununurra from $249 one-way between March 29 and September 30, 2021.
This is not only a great opportunity for city-based residents to travel to Broome, Kununurra, Exmouth and the surrounding areas, but also for northwest locals to come into Perth and explore the city, providing a great economic boost for both regions.
The regional aviation announcement, the allocation of funds for the Tourism Business Survival Grants Program and the launch of the Wander Vouchers are all significant milestones in support the travel industry by Tourism Western Australia.
This is a welcome boost to businesses as tourism continues its path to recovery.
DETAILS BOX
Tourism Western Australia
Accommodation
Check out the Perth ‘Stay and Play’ campaign to increase staycation bookings across the city this summer. Qantas Hotels is also offering ‘20% off Points Plus Pay’ on their site. The campaign kicks off from November 14.
