Perth Hills / Gaada-Moornda Katamunda
Scattered throughout the wide ranges of the Darling Scarp and only 45 minutes east of Perth City, you'll find the Perth Hills. Its character townships including Mundaring, Kalamunda and Armadale, exude a country charm with stunning views of Perth City and beyond.
The Perth Hills are Perth's creative heart, where artists, musicians and writers open their properties as retreats from city life. Trails weave through the bush, historic pubs serve local fare, and brooks, waterfalls and dams make for perfect picnic spots. Explore galleries, tulip shows and farmers' markets.
This fertile region offers forests, orchards, vineyards and growing distilleries. From fruit picking to wine tastings, enjoy a thriving food and wine scene with a fantastic trail to follow. Surrounded by national parks, the Hills feature 40+ walking, biking and wildflower trails, plus scenic lookouts. It's also the starting point for the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail.
Top Things to Do
Mundaring
Drop down a gear and head to Mundaring for a leisurely drive on leafy backroads and through spectacular forests and national parks. Delight in art and culture in the charming villages linked by the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, or simply throw down your picnic blanket and soak up the spectacular surroundings at Lake Leschenaultia or John Forrest National Park.
A visit to Mundaring Weir and the museum at No.1 Pump Station is a must. Although the project was completed more than 100 years ago, it remains one of the longest freshwater pipelines in the world and a starting point for the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail and Kep Track. Other attractions to discover include open-air markets, art galleries, an outdoor cinema and heritage-listed hotels, inns and taverns oozing with country charm.
Make Perth Hills Mundaring Visitor Centre your first stop for free information to help you get the very best from your visit to the Perth Hills.
Gidgegannup
Just a short drive into the Perth Hills, Gidgegannup offers a peaceful country escape with scenic walking trails, waterfalls, wildflowers in spring, and a warm community vibe. Enjoy local favourites like the Gidgegannup Bakery and Noble Falls Tavern, explore nature reserves, or join in on popular events like the Gidge Show. It's the perfect spot for a relaxed day trip or nature-based adventure.
Kalamunda
Kalamunda township is particularly appealing, with its quaint, historic village feel. Step back in time on the Heritage Walk Trail and explore the area’s past at the Kalamunda History Village. The Zig Zag Cultural Centre hosts exhibitions throughout the year, and you can also visit local artist studios, explore heritage buildings at the Kalamunda History Village.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding bushland and national parks on one of the many walking or mountain biking trails. Experienced walkers may like to tackle the long-distance, world-class Bibbulmun Track, which begins in Kalamunda, and for adventurous mountain bikers there's the Munda Biddi Trail and the Kalamunda Trails. For spectacular Perth City views, head up to the Lesmurdie Falls.
A short drive from Kalamunda is the incredible Bickley Valley - home to scenic drives, towering forests, spectacular valleys, orchards (look out for pick-your-own) and boutique vineyards and cideries. Follow the Bickley Valley Wine Trail to the wineries, cellar doors and cideries, many of which offer delicious food. Also in the Bickley Valley you'll find the historic Perth Observatory - a State heritage-listed observatory where science and history come together to engage visitors of all ages in astronomy, space science and Aboriginal sky lore.
After a busy day, stop at one of the fantastic and unique cafes and restaurants, or enjoy a refreshing drink at the town's historic hotel, tavern or tap house. On Sunday mornings find fresh produce at the award-winning Kalamunda Farmers Market.
Find all you need to know about things to see and do and places to stay at the Perth Hills Kalamunda Visitor Centre.
Armadale
Just 40 minutes from Perth City, Armadale offers tree-cloaked hills, babbling brooks, orchards, and nature walks. Ideal for outdoor, nature, and food lovers, it has something for everyone.
Start at the Perth Hills Armadale Visitor Centre for trail maps or drive along the scenic Armadale Hills Scenic Drive. Hikers can tackle the Wungong Gorge Trail, while Roley Pools is perfect for a shorter, relaxing walk. Don't miss Araluen Botanic Park, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens, picnics, and the spring tulip display. For adventure, visit Champion Lakes Regatta Centre, a 55-hectare lake great for swimming and canoeing.
Explore art galleries, visit the Armadale Reptile Centre and Cohunu Koala Park, or learn about the region's history at sites like the History House Museum and Bert Tyler Vintage Machinery Museum. Pick up fresh produce in Armadale, visit Raeburn Orchards for a relaxing afternoon, or stop by Brackenridge Village for sourdough, records, and local gifts.
Serpentine-Jarrahdale
The Serpentine-Jarrahdale Shire forms the southern part of the Perth Hills and offers some breath-taking scenery within the many forests, parks, rivers and other natural attractions. The Serpentine National Park features lovely forests which also harbour a wealth of walking tracks. Serpentine Falls is a favourite picnic destination, with its cool, emerald-coloured waters surrounded by rocks, the falls are the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon.
Jarrahdale, the local town was originally established as a milling town. In town you can enjoy lunch at the local pub or enjoy delicious afternoon tea at one of the cafes that line the main street, view historical buildings and explore the arts and crafts galleries. A number of wineries can also be found just outside of town, including the stunning Millbrook Winery.
Click here to download a map of the Perth Hills. Copies of this Hello Perth map can be collected at Perth Airport stands at T1 and T3, the East Perth Rail Terminal, all Visitor Centres in the metropolitan area, all Hello Perth stands, plus from over 150 locations such as attractions, hotels and car hire companies.
