If you're looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Dwellingup is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
Located just over an hour south of Perth, Western Australia, this small town is abundant in nature-inspired experiences and unique offerings that suit adventurers of all ages. Dwellingup is home to incredible natural landscapes, from spectacular regional parks to thriving river trails and towering old-growth forests that immerse you in their beauty. The adventure is yours to create in this remarkable part of the world.
Trail Blaze
One of the most popular activities in Dwellingup is hiking. The town is surrounded by the stunning Jarrah Forest, which offers many scenic trails. One of the most popular hikes WA’s famous Bibbulmun Track. This 1000km long trail begins in Kalamunda and finishes in Albany, but you can do a short section in Dwellingup to earn you ‘I’ve hiked the Bibbulmun Track’ badge. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and river, and you may even spot some wildlife along the way. If you would rather head off with someone in the know, Off The Beaten Track offer a range of guided, boutique hiking tours with a twist.
If you're after something more adventurous, then mountain biking is a great option. Dwellingup is home to the Murray Valley Mountain Bike Trails, consisting of over 40km of purpose-built mountain bike trails. These trails cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. If you don't have your own bike, you can hire one from Dwellingup Adventures.
Another popular activity in Dwellingup is canoeing or kayaking on the Murray River. The river offers a calm and scenic paddle, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. You can hire a canoe or kayak from several locations in town, or simply bring your own. If you are visiting with the kids, a must do attraction is Treetop Adventure - Dwellingup, where the whole family can tackle a sky high obstacle course set within the towering pine and jarrah trees. You'll experience soaring aerial obstacles reaching up to 25 metres high that'll have you flying and laughing with the kookaburras as you push yourself out of your comfort zones.
Eat Well
After a long day of exploring, you'll be pleased to know that Dwellingup has some great dining options. For a casual lunch, The Blue Wren Cafe is a solid option. They offer a wide range of homemade sandwiches, salads, and cakes. If you're after something more substantial, the Dwellingup Hotel is open nightly and serves classic pub meals, with a great selection of beers and wines.
If you're looking for a unique dining experience, Garden Eats Cafe and Wine Tree Cidery are two recommended options in Dwellingup. Garden Eats Cafe serves up of healthy meals and locally roasted coffee on its colourful deck. Their menu features fresh and locally sourced ingredients and they specialise in serving creative plant based and gluten free dishes.
Wine Tree Cidery, on the other hand, offers a range of ciders and wines made from locally grown fruit. You can enjoy a tasting of their ciders and wines, as well as a range of local produce, including cheese, olives, and nuts. Both of these establishments are highly recommended by locals and visitors alike, and offer a unique taste of Dwellingup's food and drink culture.
Rest Up
Dwellingup has a variety of accommodation options ranging from unique campgrounds to warm and homely cabins . For those who prefer to camp, Lane Poole Reserve is an excellent option. This reserve has several campgrounds, each with its own unique setting and facilities. If you're after something more cosy, Dwellingup is home to a range of quaint chalets and cottages – some equipped with log fires, plus caravan parks, and even farm stays.
Our Stories
Dwellingup is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, but there are also some great sights to see in town. The Forest Discovery Centre is a great place to start, especially if you’re travelling with kids. This centre has several interactive displays and exhibits that showcase the history and significance of the surrounding forests.
If you're interested in the area and its many trails, the award-winning Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre is a must-visit. With immersive experience for all visitors, featuring state of the art technology, virtual reality experiences, interactive touch maps and information screens, up to date trails maps and information and the iconic, fully restored, 1938 Mack Truck fire tender.
Trail users love this trails hub which is a place they can replenish trail supplies, have a hot shower, recharge and connect to the free WiFi and is close to town services and amenities. The nationally acclaimed skate park and pump track sit adjacent to the Trails and Visitor Centre as does the Hotham Valley Tourist Railway.
All up, Dwellingup is the perfect destination for a weekend escape and worlds away from the urban hustle. With a variety of accommodation options, plenty of outdoor activities, great food and drink options, and stunning natural beauty, you won't be disappointed.
Whether you're after a relaxing weekend away or an action-packed adventure, start planning your wild at heart adventure here.
