Kalamunda
Discover Kalamunda's historic village feel and range of things to see and do. Start at the Perth Hills Kalamunda Visitor Centre, where friendly staff can help with information, maps and brochures on all the wonderful things to see and do and places to stay. The Visitor Centre also carries an eclectic range of Australian made gifts and souvenirs, many of them handmade by local artisans. If you want to stay a night or two, Kalamunda and the Bickley Valley are home to some pretty special places to stay, from cosy bed and breakfasts and simply cottages to fully self-contained apartments and luxury lodges.
Step back in time and discover the history of Kalamunda by following the Town Centre Heritage Walk Trail or visit the Kalamunda History Village – the largest folk museum in Western Australia, depicting the unique Hills’ life and industries that have developed in the area over the 140 years since settlement. Kids can climb on the restored locomotive, or experience school life as their great-grandparents knew it.or visit the Kalamunda History Village – the largest folk museum in Western Australia, depicting the unique Hills’ life and industries that have developed in the area over the 140 years since settlement. Kids can climb on the restored locomotive, or experience school life as their great-grandparents knew it.
Call in to the adjacent Zig Zag Cultural Centre, home to the Zig Zag Gallery, where you can take in one of the many and varied exhibitions, held year-round. Visit local studios and galleries during the bi-annual Kalamunda Open Studios (spring and autumn). A visit to the Kalamunda Library will reward you with a view of the largest community-built stained-glass window in Australia.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Perth Hills on foot by following one of the many trails, from a gentle stroll along the Railway Heritage Trail to embarking on the 1000km long, world-famous Bibbilmun Track, with other walks and hikes of all grades in between. There's something for walkers of all abilities. For spectacular views of Perth City, wander through the bush to the lookouts at Lesmurdie Falls, or head to the top of the Zig Zag Scenic Trail. If you prefer adventure of the two-wheeled variety, pop your mountain bike in the car (or hire one at the trail head) and hit the Kalamunda Mountain Bike Trails, or tackle a section of the world-class, long-distance Munda Biddi Trail.
After a day of walking and exploring, quench your thirst at the historic Kalamunda Hotel (keep an eye out for the Hotel’s friendly ghost!), the town’s tavern or tap house, or choose from a number of fantastic cafes and restaurants, all offering exceptional food and coffee.
Only a short drive from Kalamunda is the incredible Bickley Valley, home to scenic drives, towering forests, spectacular valleys, seasonal creeks, family-run orchards (look out for pick-your-own), and 14 boutique vineyards, cideries, and distilleries, that create delicious product that you won't find anywhere else in WA. Many of the venues offer delicious food as well – from simple cheese platters to full a la carte menus. The wine and cider makers and distillers in the Bickley Valley are progressive and innovative and you'll be amazed at what you'll find.
Also in the Bickley Valley you'll find the historic Perth Observatory. This State heritage-listed observatory is a unique tourist attraction, where science and history come together to engage visitors of all ages in astronomy, space science, and Aboriginal sky-lore. Be sure to take in Worl Wangkiny, a work created by indigenous artists which celebrates 60,000 years of Noongar celestial storytelling, captured on to the inner walls of a large, partly constructed telescope dome.
Find something fresh at the award-winning Kalamunda Farmers Market, held in town every Sunday morning. For a unique hand-made gift, visit the Kalamunda Artisan Market, which takes place on the first Saturday of each month. Night markets are also held once a month during the warmer months. You are welcome to Perth Hills Kalamunda! See you up the Hill soon.