Escape To The Murray Region This Winter

Craving a weekend escape? Dwellingup is calling.

Nestled in the Murray region of Western Australia, Dwellingup is truly a place for those who are wild at heart. 

Escape the ordinary and discover an adventure-filled playground of towering trees, flowing rivers, winding trails and inspiring experiences. The adventure is yours to create in this remarkable part of the world, but we’re here to help.

Here’s our handpicked itinerary showcasing the very best of Pinjarra and Dwellingup.

Day 1

9am: Ready, set, adventure! Taking the Kwinana Freeway or South Western Highway south from Perth, you’ll find yourself in Pinjarra in just one hour. Pinjarra is the place to experience true country lifestyle with history, nature and adventure found in equal measure. Settled in the early 1830s, Pinjarra is one of the oldest towns in Western Australia.  Now known for its budding arts and dynamic culture scene, it has retained much of its scenic countryside and historic buildings (check out the Edenvale Heritage Precinct) for your enjoyment today.

10am: It’s time to fuel up for the day. Head straight to WA’s number one pie stop destination: Pinjarra Bakery. Whether you prefer an authentic original, an exciting invention, or a fancy gourmet pie, there’s something for every pie lover. But there’s more. Sip on barista-brewed coffee, enjoy a delectable dessert or keep it clean with a healthy wrap and fruit smoothie.

11am: This is one for the kids (and big kids). Ranger Red’s Zoo & Conservation Park (formerly known as the Peel Zoo) is a boutique, hands-on zoo in a lush setting on the banks of the Murray River. Hand feed the animals, hold a snake, pat a kangaroo and tickle a ferret at this unique zoo experience that the whole family will love. More than 150 species of birds and animals will capture your imagination including koalas, wombats, dingoes and reptiles. The huge walk-through aviary houses exotic birds and owls, spotted quolls, possums and the Tasmanian Devils are the star attractions.

Noble River Estate | Dwellingup. Image Credit: Visit Dwellingup

2pm: After experiencing life as a Zookeeper, it’s time to head for Dwellingup – home for the next two nights. Dwellingup has a range of accommodation options with spaces to suit every guest. Choose from charming country holiday homes to chalets, cottages and caravan parks.

Dwellingup also has a range of campgrounds and sites nestled deep in the bushland. One of the most popular locations is Lane Poole Reserve, just a stone’s throw from the Murray River. With more than 150 campsites to choose from, there are plenty of picnic tables, fire pits, toilets and barbeques spread throughout the reserve. This is the perfect base for those hoping to hit the water for fast-water rafting, kayaking and canoeing.

3pm: Visit the award-winning Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre. Located close to the Hotham Valley Railway, this state-of-the-art visitor centre and surrounding precinct is a must-do on any Dwellingup adventure. Inside the centre, you’ll find interactive trail maps, touch-screen digital displays with local area and historical information, virtual reality trail experiences, and essential maps and information. The surrounding precinct includes the Dwellingup skate park and pump track, modern toilet, shower, laundromat and locker facilities for trail walkers, riders and visitors.

Dwellingup | Image Credit: Visit Dwellingup

6pm: For a low-key evening meal after a busy day, 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. Unwind while you gaze at the sparkling stars illuminating the clear, dark skies of Dwellingup. More adventure awaits tomorrow.

Day 2

9am: Rise and shine! Pedal along some of Australia’s best mountain bike trails with Dwellingup Adventures, including the world-renowned Munda Biddi Trail. This tour is perfect for those less confident on a bike and those just looking for an adventurous day out. Be prepared to get your heart rate up as you ride through local jarrah and marri forest, watching out for emus, kangaroos and birds, including the endangered black cockatoos. Enjoy a delicious platter prepared by Waypoints Café at the halfway point before returning to town along the Munda Biddi Trail. 

Dwellingup Adventure Trails | Dwellingup. Image Credit: Visit Dwellingup

If cycling isn’t your thing, gear up and experience great heights as you swing among the trees above Nanga Mill Campground at Treetops Adventure Dwellingup. With a range of aerial challenges catered to everyone (even those with a fear of heights!), Treetops Adventure allows thrill-seekers and eco-adventurers to experience nature like never before.

1pm: Discover the captivating Wine Tree Cidery in the enchanting Holyoake Valley. This unique and cosy boutique venue specialises in crafting small-batch wines and ciders that ignite imagination and delight the senses. Prepare to be amazed by exclusive creations, which can only be savoured at the cellar door. While you relax on the deck or next to their roaring wood fire, keep an eye out for kangaroos and emus, adding a touch of natural charm to your afternoon. Enjoy an early night after an action-packed day.

Day 3

9am: After a perfect weekend in nature, it’s time to head home. But only after visiting Garden Eats for a coffee and wholesome breakfast before the relaxing drive back to Perth. Garden Eats offers fresh, deliciously flavourful, healthy food options with its changing menu of vegan / plant-based and gluten-free street food.

Garden Eats | Dwellingup. Image Credit: Visit Dwellingup

Escape the city and unwind in Dwellingup, the ideal weekend getaway. This tranquil destination offers diverse accommodation, abundant outdoor adventure activities, delicious dining choices, and breathtaking scenery. Prepare for an unforgettably wild experience in Dwellingup this winter.

Escape to nature with us. Destination Perth is the perfect place to plan your next getaway in WA.