Explore the wild wonders of Dwellingup this season, where romance, nature and adventure unite.

Dwellingup is the ultimate laid-back country getaway. Located just over an hour south of Perth, the historic town of Dwellingup is alive with scenic towering forests, countless hiking, walking and mountain-biking trails, serene overnight accommodation options, wineries, galleries and cute cafes. It’s the perfect place to pause, breathe and reconnect with nature. 

This adventure trail town claimed the title of Top Small Tourism Town in 2021 and has been named a finalist in WA's Top Tourism Awards in 2022 and 2023. 

Unwind and settle in for a weekend staycation in Dwellingup with a range of accommodation options in Dwellingup. Sleep to the soothing sounds of the forest at a well-equipped campground, cosy cottage, or private chalet surrounded by the majestic jarrah forest – there’s something perfect for every traveller. 

With every sunrise comes a new day for adventure in Dwellingup. Commit to an awe-inspiring wilderness tour with Salt and Bush Eco Tours, embark on a guided hike with Off The Beaten Track to immerse ancient old-growth forests or jump on board a unique steam train experience with Hotham Valley Tourist Railway. 

For adventure-lovers seeking to explore more of this tranquil town, Dwellingup Adventures offer a range of self-guided tours and equipment hire including canoes, rafts, stand up paddle boards, mountain bikes and camping equipment. With almost 30 years of experience and intimate knowledge of local sights, trails and waterways, Dwellingup Adventures will help you create the most epic outdoor adventure memories. 

Adventure in Dwellingup doesn’t end there. Gear up and experience great heights as you swing among the pine and jarrah trees above Nanga Mill Campground at Treetops Adventure Dwellingup. With a range of aerial challenges catered to everyone (even those with a serious fear of heights!), Treetops Adventure allows thrill-seekers and eco-adventurers to experience nature like never before.

To help plan your nature-inspired experience in the adventure filled town of Dwellingup, check out the full three-day itinerary below. 

Day 1

After a relaxing drive through small towns, forests, valleys and all-round stunning scenery, arrive at Dwellingup. First up, visit the recently opened Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre for an immersive visitor experience and all the information you’ll need to get the most out of your stay. 

Eager to explore, warm up your mind, body and soul with an easy stroll or ride from the centre along ‘The Mack’ shared-use trail. This 3km loop meanders through the forest, returning to town following the iconic Bibbulmun Track. Continue your stroll in town, admiring the vibrant street art that adds a colourful touch to Dwellingup’s eclectic charm. Explore quaint stores, art galleries showcasing local artisans and their wares.

For a low-key evening meal, there’s no going past The Dwelly Pub. Operating since the early 1900s, The Dwellingup Hotel is a historic icon much loved by locals and visitors alike. With big serves of classic pub favourites, it’s the ideal place for a pub feed.

Day 2

Rise to the gentle sound of birds and nature and enjoy a slow morning before preparing for a day of exploring the secrets of Dwellingup. Enjoy breakfast at the iconic Blue Wren Café, located in the heart of the town, before meeting the crew at Dwellingup Adventures for a mountain bike adventure.

The Murray Valley mountain bike trails is a network of purpose-built, single-track trails offering a stunning experience through Lane Poole Reserve. Beginner bikers can relaxingly weave through the picturesque jarrah forest on a modest cross-country trail, while those with more experience can enjoy rocky, leg-burning ascents connecting to long winding descents. Dwellingup is a mountain biking paradise.  

After an epic day on the bike, head into town to relax with a stone-baked pizza or juicy burger, paired with an ice-cold pint from Longriders Café & Restaurant.

The adventure doesn’t end here. When the sun sets, there are wonders to discover on tour with Salt and Bush Eco Tours. This boutique tour company aims to inspire connection and create a better understanding of the natural world. Join naturalist guides as you learn about the starry night sky and discover the nocturnal animals that call Dwellingup home.

Day 3

If there’s ever a reason for an early start, the sunrise in Dwellingup is it. Experience the morning peacefulness as golden light trickles through the soaring trees. 

Time for a bite to eat. Hidden among the lush gardens of artist run exhibition space, Lost Eden Creative, is Garden Eats. Here, you’ll find a quaint café serving healthy, plant-based food and refreshments from a reinvented rustic timber float. The ever-changing menu is inspired by authentic soul food and created using the freshest locally sourced produce.

After lunch, visit the Caraholly Orchard. Explore the orchard, pick the produce and take home the freshest food – straight from the farm to your fork. Another favourite and Dwellingup institution is Vergone’s Fruit Stall. The stall celebrates fresh, local produce and serves delicious coffee, homemade cakes, soups, preserves, fruit, veggies and all that is currently in season. Enjoy the scenery that surrounds you once more before it’s time to take the leisurely drive back through the winding, tree-lined country roads toward home.

Before reaching reality, be sure to pause at the iconic award-winning Pinjarra Bakery for one of Perth’s (no, wait, Australia’s!) tastiest pies. Whether you prefer the authentic originals or are game to try a wild new creation (think: BBQ beef brisket with campfire beans) there’s something for every pie lover.

Let Destination Perth be your guide to everything you need to know about a dream escape to Dwellingup. Plan your stay here.