Enjoy Swan Valley on a Budget

Looking for the perfect outing on a budget? Too easy.

Swan Valley is a great way to explore a mix of the culture, local produce and the great outdoors – all without breaking the bank. Here's our curated list of our Top 10 free and budget-friendly activities to do in the region:

1. Whiteman Park: Pack a picnic basket and head out to Whiteman Park, a sprawling nature reserve that's open every day of the year. While some attractions may require a small fee, the park itself is free to explore. Explore the exceptional bush walking trails nearby a selection playgrounds, museums and recreation areas. With the expansive stretch of bushland, you might even spot some native wildlife. 

2. Pia’s Place: Although it's technically part of Whiteman's Park, we want to give this gem its very own spotlight. Pia's Place is an extensive playground that has been designed to allow ALL children to explore and play in a nature-based inclusive play space. The facilities include quiet nooks and cosy corners, a variety of accessible harness swings, cubby building space and sand play areas. Whether the kids are after fast-moving fun or soothing sensory play, there is an abundance of opportunity for calculated risk and physical challenge for all levels of ability here. 

3. Margaret River Chocolate Factory & Yahava Koffee Works: Indulge in complimentary tastings at the Margaret River Chocolate Factory and Yahava Koffee Works. Just a short walk away from each other, try Yahava's tasting bench to sample any one of their wonderful coffees. From there you can stroll on over to Margaret River Chocolate Factory, with free entry, free tastings and viewing windows to see the products being made. It's a deliciously satisfying experience that won't cost you a cent (unless you want an extra treat to take home)!

4. Bells Rapids River Walk: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on the Bells Rapids River Walk—a scenic trail offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscape and rushing waters below. Whether you're an avid hiker or a casual stroller, this free outdoor adventure promises stunning vistas and a refreshing escape into nature. With its majestic boulders and rushing waters in the winter, Bells Rapids has been a favourite picnic location for families for many years.

5. Swan Valley Station: Be sure to stop by the Swan Valley Station for your cafe fix and enjoy a leisurely walk around their huge marron lake and sculpture trail. It's the perfect place to stretch your legs and admire the huge artworks dotted around the area. For the kids, they also have a huge playground and cubby house you can watch over from the cafe, and even friendly farm animals waiting for pats. The kids will be entertained while you sit and relax!

6. The Great Valley Rally: Get on board a thrilling scavenger hunt with The Great Valley Rally where you and your fellow explorers can follow Stirling the Black Swan’s cryptic clues along a specific route in the Valley. Follow clues, solve puzzles, and discover hidden gems as you explore the region's rich history and natural beauty—all at your own pace and completely free of charge. Designed for families with children aged five to 12 years old, the trail begins at the Swan Valley Visitor Centre and takes around three hours to complete.

7. Guildford Heritage Walk Trails: Step back in time and wander through the charming streets of Guildford on the Heritage Walk Trails. Established on what is virtually an island encircled by the Swan and Helena Rivers, Guildford is ideally suited to explore by walking. There are four heritage walk trails with accompanying interpretive panels to lead you through the town's rich history, marked by colonial architecture, heritage buildings, and character-filled boutiques and pubs. The trails range from a quick 20-minute wander to a more immersive 75-minute explore. 

8. Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery: Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery is unique to Perth as an Aboriginal-owned and operated enterprise offering cultural activities, talks, performances and bush tucker, as well as a local art gallery. Drop in to taste their range of taste jams, chutneys, olive oils and dukkah. If you're looking for a souvenir, here you can purchase hard-to-find Australian native herbs and spices, gorgeous handpainted giftware and authentic Aboriginal Art.

9. Stirling Arms Free Trivia Nights: For a fun evening, father a group and put your knowledge to the test at Stirling Arms Hotel's free trivia nights, held every Thursday! There are great prizes to be won, such as meal and drink vouchers, and the quiz starts at 7.00pm. We recommend booking a table and enjoying dinner and drinks beforehand.

10. Oakover Grounds Paddle Boats: Oakover is a relaxed lakeside space with plenty of surrounding food and drink options. A great meeting place with shady trees to sit under and rolling lawns perfect for a game of cricket. But one of our favourite fun features is the free paddle boats – take to the lake for a ride.