Wildflowers, impressive granite formations, historic stories, and inspiring food! Albany is the destination you’ve been dreaming of. The first place of settlement in Western Australia. The last place seen by ANZAC soldiers on their journey to war. Green landscape crusted with granite and a gorgeous cool climate that grows delicious fresh food and award-winning wines. There are hundreds of reasons to put Albany in the Great Southern at the top of your travel list.
Here’s a 5-day plan for your next journey to the regional city of Albany, Western Australia.
Day One: arrive Albany and settle in. Head to the historic Stirling Terrace precinct for a meal in one of the many eateries with views to Princess Royal Harbour. Maybe you’ll spot some street art along the way! Albany alleys are strewn with murals.
Day Two: sense the edge at The Gap in Torndirrup National Park on a half-day tour with Albany Tours. Take in the 360-degree views of Western Australia’s southern coastline from the summit of Stoney Hill. Walk in bushland abundant in wildflowers; hakea, acacia, banksia, dryandra, adenanthus, agonis. Feel the power of the wind and water from the masterfully crafted, protected walkway cantilevered over The Gap. See the pounding waves of the Southern Ocean as they thrash the granite walls and surge through the spaces. Complete your journey with a generous serving of scones with tea or coffee.
Day Three: head out of town to either Denmark or Mt Barker to taste the region on a full-day tour with Albany Tours. Meander through backroads to taste outstanding wines from wineries of the Great Southern Wine appellation. This Western Australian region has a characteristically cool climate with slow ripening times which allows for the development of rich flavours and quality grape juice. The most awarded varieties are Riesling and Shiraz. Albany Tours ensures an intimate and knowledgeable tasting experience in the region and you step up to the tasting bench ahead of others. Our wine tours Include lunch and all tastings.
Day Four: learn more of the ANZAC and settlement story on a half-day ‘History and Highlights’ tour with Albany Tours. On Mt Adelaide at the National ANZAC Centre interactive displays will take you on an intimate journey of a participant of the war. Under the shade of trees planted to remember fallen soldiers, the Avenue of Honour leads to the Memorial of the Desert Mounted Corps on Mt Clarence. The dawn service is Padre White’s story. Take in the view that the departing ANZAC Troops had before they sailed onwards to war; for some of them, Albany Western Australia was the last vision of homeland. Includes morning tea with scones.
Day Five: meander home with a heart and mind full of history, nature, and delicious treats from the Great Southern region.