Are you looking for ideas for weekend getaways? Perth is not all about trips down south. There are plenty of other directions to take that offer some fantastic short trips from Perth.

From family-friendly farm stays to cosy chalets and luxury spa getaways there’s plenty of options to suit everyone. Find one that’s perfect for you here.

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Perth Hills

30-minute drive from Perth

It may just be a 30-minute drive to the hills from Perth’s CBD but you’re guaranteed to feel like you’re miles away from any city. Think bush walks, orchard cafes and some of the most romantic getaways Perth has to offer.

Things to do in the Perth Hills

• Visit the Kalamunda Farmers Market every Sunday morning.
• Take a hike along the Bibbulmun Track.
• Head to Lesmurdie Falls for a walk and picnic.
• Drive along the Bickley Valley Wine Trail and visit the many stunning wineries and cafes.
• Visit John Forrest National Park.
• Take a stargazing tour at the Perth Observatory.

Best places to stay in the Perth Hills

Hidden Valley Eco Lodge and Spa Retreat  Perth’s premier adult-only luxury spa retreat in the Perth Hills. Set in natural bushland, Hidden Valley features in house spa retreatments and gourmet dining options. The eco-friendly cottages come with their own private jacuzzi, fireplace and king-size beds.

Ferguson Valley

2-hour drive from Perth

For one of the most underrated short trips from Perth, head off to beautiful Ferguson Valley located 30-minutes inland from Bunbury. The Ferguson Valley boasts pretty rolling hills, peppered with wineries, artistic cafes, galleries, towering Jarrah trees and is home to the very quirky Gnomesville.

Things to do in the Ferguson Valley

• Take a trip to Gnomesville, home to thousands of quirky gnomes from all over the world.
• Explore the wineries, cafes and restaurants of the Ferguson Valley.
• See the incredible 300-year-old King Jarrah tree and take a walk through the forest.

See here for more must do things to do in the Ferguson Valley.

Best places to stay in the Ferguson Valley

Peppermint Lane Lodge – contemporary and luxurious adults-only country retreat that will nourish body and soul. Peppermint Lodge makes for a decadent short break in peaceful surroundings. Perfect for a girls weekend away or romantic couples weekend.

Ferguson Valley Farmstay – self-contained luxury chalets with spectacular views of farmland and vineyards. There are also opportunities for farm activities including animal feeding, pony rides and tractor rides.

See more accommodation options here.

Jurien Bay

 2.5-hour drive from Perth

Take a drive alongside the splendid turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to Jurien Bay. This vibrant beachside hub has plenty of things to do for an excellent Perth weekend getaway, including aquatic activities like swimming with sea lions, fishing charters and an excellent underwater snorkelling trail. For adrenalin seekers, the Jurien Skydive Centre offers an unforgettable adventure.

Jurien also makes for an ideal base to explore the surrounding region. The Pinnacles, Sandy Cape Recreational Park and  Lesueur National Park are all within easy reach.

Things to do in Jurien Bay

• Go swimming with sea lions.
• Explore the Sandy Cape Recreational Park
• See the wildflowers at Lesueur National Park
• Go skydiving with Jurien Bay Skydiving

Best places to stay in Jurien Bay

Casa Al Mare Beach House – This stylish beach house with an Italian touch has four bedrooms and comes with everything you could possibly need for a relaxing getaway any time of the year. There’s an extensive library to steal away a few peaceful hours, comfy lounge room and plenty of space for all.

See more accommodation options in Jurien Bay here.

York

1.5-hour drive from Perth

York is famously known as WA’s first inland town and makes for a great country weekend getaway from Perth. The historic town has plenty on offer with a lively main street, cute cafes, antique shops as well as the nationally renowned York Motor Museum. The surrounding Avon Valley is particularly pretty during late winter and spring when the canola fields are in full bloom.

Things to do in York

• Visit the York Motor Museum.
• Take a walk to Mount Brown lookout for 360 views of the Avon Valley.
• Explore WA’s pastoral history at the Residency Museum.
• Take a drive to the York Olive Oil Co.
• For some more suggestions see this extensive post on things to do in York. 

Best places to stay in York

Faversham House – Faversham house is one of WA’s most historic houses that will take you back to the state’s colonial past. The impressive 19th-century mansion is one of the best weekend escapes from Perth. See our stay at Faversham House here. 

Lavendale Farm – Located ten minutes from York township, Lavendale Farmstay has self-contained cottages on a working farm. Kids will love feeding the animals, collecting eggs and the space to roam around. Suitable for couples, families and large groups.

See more accommodation options in York here.

Swan Valley

30-minute drive from Perth 

It may be one of Perth’s favourite day trip destinations, but the Swan Valley also makes for one of the best weekend escapes. Perth’s  Swan Valley offers great accommodation options including romantic getaways, B&B’s, family friendly cabins and farm stays.

Things to do in the Swan Valley

• Follow the 32km wine and food trail around the Swan Valley. See here for how to spend a day in the Swan Valley. 
• Visit Caversham Wildlife Park for close-up views of Australia’s native animals.
• Take a walk and picnic at Bells Rapids.

Best places to stay in the Swan Valley

The Colony at Mandoon Estate – set on one of the Swan Valley’s most impressive wineries, The Colony is a modern boutique hotel with excellent facilities. The bedrooms are beautifully styled with modern amenities and you’ve got the best of the Swan Valley on your doorstep.

Upper Reach Winery Spa Cottage – cute 2-bedroom cottage with spa and surrounded by vineyards. Best of all, it’s a quick stroll to Upper Reach winery where an excellent winery lunch awaits.

Kellers Bed and Breakfast – boutique B&B located on a hobby farm. Scrumptious continental breakfast for all guests and easy walking distance to Swan Valley’s major attractions.

See some more excellent accommodations options in the Swan Valley here.

Rottnest Island

40-minute ferry trip from Perth

There’s so much to love about Rottnest Island and the quick trip on the ferry certainly makes Rotto one of the best weekend getaways Perth has to offer. From picture-card perfect beaches to happy quokkas and amazing sunsets, Rotto has everything you could want for a perfect short break.

Things to do on Rottnest Island

• Cycle around the island and visit the many beaches, bays and attractions on the island on two wheels.
• Have dinner or lunch at the excellent Rottnest Hotel.
• Swim and snorkel at some of the best beaches in WA, including The Basin.
• Meet the Quokkas, the world’s happiest animals.
• Go skydiving and arrive on Rotto in the best possible way.

See more on the best activities to do on Rottnest Island

Best places to stay on Rottnest Island

Discovery Rottnest Island – go glamping at Rottnest’s newest accommodation option. The eco-resort has over 80-fully furnished tents and is located right near The Basin beach.

Rottnest Campground – the most budget-friendly accommodation option is surprisingly easy. Grab your tent and see how to go camping in Rottnest Island in this blog post.

See more accommodation options on Rottnest Island here

Dwellingup

1-hour drive from Perth

Dwellingup is a cute timber town with a long history and an ideal short break from Perth. Dwellingup’s main attraction is the expansive Jarrah forest, as well as the historic Hotham Valley Railway. Take a drive to Lane Poole Reserve, swim or paddle in the Murray River and take a leisurely stroll through the forest.

Things to do in Dwellingup

• Go mountain biking along the Munda Biddi that traverses the town or hit the family-friendly Marrinup circuit trail.
• Visit Lane Poole Reserve for nature-based activities including kayaking, swimming and hiking.
• Take a trip on the historic Hotham Valley Tourist Railway.
• Visit the Forest Heritage Centre which offers a variety of tours, including a walk atop of the tree canopies.
• Hit the Trees Adventure Park at Lane Poole Reserve for a range of obstacle challenges.

Best places to stay in Dwellingup

Dwellingup Forest Lodge – tucked in among natural bushland, the Forest Lodge has self-contained chalets offering a peaceful respite.

Dwellingup Retreat – located on the forest’s edge, this cute cottage has plenty of country charm. Ideal for a family-friendly getaway or a romantic retreat for two.

See more great accommodation options in Dwellingup here.

Toodyay

Toodyay is a beautiful country town in the heart of the beautiful Avon Valley. Peruse the cute cafes and shops on the main road, lunch at a country pub and visit the weekend farmers market.

Things to do in Toodyay

• Celebrate Christmas every day of the year at the gorgeous Christmas shop which will put you into a festive mood no matter what season it is.
• Visit the Farmers Market, which takes place xxx
• Small kids will love the miniature railway that runs on the first and third Sunday of the month. See more details here.
• Visit the museum inside Connor’s Mill.

Best places to stay in Toodyay

The Art Shack – located on the banks of the Avon River, this contemporary eco-retreat boasts contemporary design and arty vibes to make this shack an absolute winner for any trip to Toodyay. True to its name the Art Shack has a collection of artworks from West Australian artists.

See more great accommodation options in Toodyay here.

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