Get ready for the road trip of a lifetime as we embark on an extended 14-day journey from Perth to Esperance and back, with an exciting detour through the historic town of Kalgoorlie. From stunning coastal landscapes to ancient forests and gold rush history, this road trip will take you on an unforgettable adventure through Western Australia. Buckle up, grab your camper van, and let’s hit the road to explore the diverse beauty and hidden gems of this incredible region.
Day 1: Perth to Bunbury (Approx. 175 km, 2 hours) Start your road trip adventure by driving from Perth to Bunbury, a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and friendly dolphins. Spend the morning exploring the iconic Dolphin Discovery Centre, where you can interact with these playful creatures.
Afterward, head to Koombana Bay for a leisurely beach stroll and enjoy a picnic lunch with fresh seafood from one of the local fish and chips shops. In the afternoon, visit the Marlston Hill Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. For dinner, savor delicious local cuisine at one of Bunbury’s waterfront restaurants, offering a range of options from seafood to international flavors.
Day 2: Bunbury to Pemberton (Approx. 190 km, 2.5 hours) Leave Bunbury and drive southeast to Pemberton, a charming town nestled within the heart of the karri forest. Start your day with a visit to the famous Gloucester Tree, a giant karri tree you can climb for breathtaking views from the top. Continue to the Beedelup National Park and take a leisurely walk along the Beedelup Falls Trail, admiring the stunning cascades and lush greenery.
For lunch, enjoy a picnic amidst nature, surrounded by towering karri trees. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Yeagarup Dunes, where you can try sandboarding or simply take in the mesmerizing landscape. As evening approaches, head to one of Pemberton’s wineries for a wine tasting experience, accompanied by a delectable dinner featuring local produce and gourmet delights.
Day 3: Pemberton to Walpole (Approx. 80 km, 1 hour) Embark on a short drive from Pemberton to Walpole, a picturesque town known for its stunning coastline and ancient forests. Begin your day with a visit to the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, an elevated walkway that takes you through the canopy of towering tingle trees. Explore the Ancient Empire Walk, which winds its way through the old-growth forest, showcasing the incredible flora and fauna of the region.
Afterward, head to the peaceful Peaceful Bay, where you can relax on the pristine beach or try your hand at fishing. In the evening, indulge in fresh local seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants in Walpole, offering panoramic views of the inlet.
Day 4: Walpole to Denmark (Approx. 70 km, 1 hour) Set off from Walpole and make your way to Denmark, a charming coastal town renowned for its stunning beaches and lush forests. Start your day with a visit to Greens Pool, a serene turquoise bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Nearby, you can explore Elephant Rocks, a unique rock formation resembling a herd of elephants.
For lunch, head to Denmark town and explore the local cafes and bakeries offering delicious homemade treats and gourmet delights. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to William Bay National Park, where you can visit the famous Lights Beach and Madfish Bay. End the day with a relaxing walk along the Denmark River, admiring the tranquil surroundings and birdlife. For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of Denmark’s renowned restaurants, featuring fresh local produce and exquisite flavors.
Day 5: Denmark to Albany (Approx. 50 km, 1 hour) Drive from Denmark to Albany, a historic port city with a rich maritime heritage. Begin your day with a visit to Torndirrup National Park, home to remarkable natural attractions. Marvel at The Gap and Natural Bridge, impressive rock formations carved by the powerful Southern Ocean. Afterward, head to Middleton Beach for a relaxing beach walk and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the beachfront cafes. Explore Albany’s charming town center, featuring historic buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops.
In the afternoon, visit the award-winning National ANZAC Centre, which offers a comprehensive insight into Australia’s involvement in the First World War. For dinner, indulge in Albany’s thriving food scene, with diverse culinary options ranging from contemporary Australian cuisine to international flavors.
Day 6: Albany to Bremer Bay (Approx. 160 km, 2 hours) Depart Albany and travel east to the pristine coastal town of Bremer Bay, known for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife. Start your day with a visit to the Bremer Canyon Marine Park, where you can join a whale watching or dolphin spotting tour. Experience the awe-inspiring sight of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. For lunch, enjoy a beachside picnic at the tranquil Little Boat Harbour.
In the afternoon, relax on the stunning Bremer Bay Beach or take a scenic coastal walk along the Great South West Edge. For dinner, savor a meal at one of the local restaurants, offering a fusion of flavors and fresh seafood caught from the Southern Ocean.
Day 7: Bremer Bay to Hopetoun (Approx. 100 km, 1.5 hours) Drive from Bremer Bay to Hopetoun, a coastal town renowned for its breathtaking beaches and natural beauty. Start your day with a visit to the Fitzgerald River National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Explore the park’s walking trails and lookout points, offering panoramic views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and colorful wildflowers. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature’s beauty.
In the afternoon, head to the spectacular Four Mile Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or take a leisurely stroll along the golden sands. As the day comes to an end, treat yourself to a sumptuous meal at one of Hopetoun’s local eateries, offering a range of cuisine from casual pub fare to gourmet dining experiences.
Day 8: Hopetoun to Ravensthorpe (Approx. 65 km, 1 hour) Leave Hopetoun and journey to Ravensthorpe, a town nestled amidst picturesque farmlands and stunning national parks. Begin your day with a visit to the Fitzgerald Biosphere Discovery Centre, where you can learn about the unique flora, fauna, and geological features of the region. Explore the local art galleries and browse for unique souvenirs showcasing the region’s artistic talents. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the town’s cafes, featuring homemade delights and local produce.
In the afternoon, venture to the nearby Fitzgerald River National Park, home to magnificent landscapes, granite peaks, and hidden waterfalls. Embark on a scenic drive through the park and enjoy short walks to discover the park’s natural wonders. For dinner, savor the flavors of the countryside at one of Ravensthorpe’s cozy restaurants, serving up hearty meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 9: Ravensthorpe to Esperance (Approx. 340 km, 4 hours) Embark on the next leg of your journey as you drive from Ravensthorpe to Esperance, a coastal gem known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. Take a scenic drive through the countryside, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way. Arrive in Esperance in the afternoon and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the magnificent beaches, such as Twilight Beach or Blue Haven Beach. Take a dip in the refreshing waters or simply bask in the sun on the soft sands.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of Esperance’s local restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood and other culinary delights.
To explore the natural wonders of Cape Le Grand National Park start your day with a sunrise visit to Lucky Bay, where you can witness kangaroos hopping along the pristine white sands. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the beach. Next, head to Frenchman Peak, a granite outcrop offering panoramic views of the park and surrounding islands. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning coastal scenery.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike along one of the park’s trails, such as the Le Grand Coastal Trail or the Rossiter Bay Loop Walk, to discover more of the park’s beauty. As the day winds down, capture the breathtaking sunset over the turquoise waters before enjoying a delicious dinner at one of Esperance’s local restaurants.
Day 11: Esperance to Norseman to Kalgoorlie-Boulder (Approx. 750 km, 8.5 hours) On day 11, prepare for an exciting detour as we drive from Esperance to Kalgoorlie, a historic mining town filled with fascinating attractions. Start early in the morning to make the most of the day. Enjoy the scenic drive through the vast Western Australian outback, passing by the rugged landscapes and unique flora and fauna. Make a stop in Norseman, a small town known as the gateway to the Goldfields, for a quick break and to refuel. Continue your journey to Kalgoorlie, where you can immerse yourself in the town’s rich gold rush history. In the evening, savor a hearty meal at one of Kalgoorlie’s traditional pubs or sample local cuisine at one of the town’s eclectic eateries.
Day 12: Exploring Kalgoorlie-Boulder Spend a full day exploring the attractions of Kalgoorlie and its surrounding areas. Begin by visiting the Kalgoorlie Town Hall, a stunning heritage-listed building that showcases the town’s grandeur. Take a stroll down Hannan Street, the main street of Kalgoorlie, lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. Learn about the town’s gold rush history at the Goldfields Exhibition Museum or visit the Hannans North Tourist Mine to experience a simulated underground mine tour. For lunch, enjoy a meal at one of the local cafes, offering a mix of traditional Australian fare and modern cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club and experience the excitement of a horse race, or take a scenic drive to the nearby ghost town of Coolgardie. As the evening sets in, relax at one of Kalgoorlie’s pubs, enjoying a drink and mingling with the locals.
Day 13: Kalgoorlie to Merredin to York to Perth (Approx. 610 km, 7 hours) On day 13, it’s time to bid farewell to Kalgoorlie and make your way back to Perth. Begin your journey by driving to Merredin, a town known for its railway heritage. Visit the Merredin Railway Museum to learn about the town’s fascinating history and explore the exhibits showcasing the importance of rail in the region. Enjoy a lunch break at one of the local eateries before continuing your drive to the charming town of York. Wander through the historic streets, visit art galleries, and admire the well-preserved Victorian and Federation architecture. Take a leisurely walk along the Avon River and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
As the day comes to an end, hop back in your camper van and drive back to Perth, reminiscing about the incredible experiences of your road trip adventure.
Back Home with Memories Galore
After 14 epic days of exploring the stunning coastal landscapes, ancient forests, and historic towns of Western Australia, your road trip from Perth to Esperance and back via Kalgoorlie has come to an end. From the pristine beaches of Esperance to the gold rush history of Kalgoorlie, this journey has offered a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.
As you arrive back in Perth, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights you’ve experienced along the way. This road trip has been a true adventure, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the diverse wonders of Western Australia.
