Margaret River and the Great Southern, A Campervan Road Trip

The south west corner of Western Australia is the kind of place that makes people move here. Ancient forests, world-class wineries, dramatic coastlines, caves that took millions of years to form and beaches that look like someone forgot to tell them it wasn't summer. We love it down here and visit as often as we can, and we never run out of reasons to come back.

The route

Head south from Perth on the Kwinana Freeway, then follow the coast through Mandurah and Bunbury.

Day 1: Perth to Busselton via Vasse

The drive south takes about two and a half hours to Busselton. Before you arrive, stop at the Vasse Village by Bunbury Markets for fresh local produce this is an absolute must. Seasonal fruit, local honey, artisan cheese, fresh bread. Stock the van fridge and you're set for the week. Continue to Busselton and walk the longest timber jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Stay at one of the Busselton caravan parks right on the water.

Day 2: Busselton to Yallingup to Margaret River

Head down to Yallingup, the Yallingup Beach Caravan Park is one of our favourites, right near the beach and surf. Spend the morning at Ngilgi Cave, have lunch in the township, then drive the Caves Road through the towering karri forest to Margaret River. Explore the town, pick up supplies, and find a campsite for the night.

Day 3: Margaret River caves, capes and Cape Leeuwin

A big day of sights. Jewel Cave or Lake Cave in the morning, then drive the capes to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet at the most south-westerly point of Australia. Stop at Simmos Ice Creamery on the way back. You've earned it.

Day 4: Margaret River to Bremer Bay

Head south and east along the coast toward Bremer Bay, a small, beautiful fishing town on a sheltered bay. Famous for its orca encounters through Naturaliste Charters from July to November. Camp right near the beach and watch for dolphins in the bay.

Day 5: Bremer Bay to Nornalup and the Valley of the Giants

Drive west through Walpole and stop at the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, 600 metre walkway through the canopy of ancient tingle trees, some over 400 years old. Continue to Nornalup and enjoy the Inlet,  one of the most peaceful spots in the state.

Day 6: Nornalup to Denmark to Albany

Denmark is a beautiful little town worth a morning coffee, a bakery and enjoy lunch at the Boston Brewery. Then head to Albany, the oldest colonial settlement in WA. Mount Clarence lookout, the Historic Whaling Station, and Limeburners Distillery for a tasting before dinner.

Day 7: Albany to Perth

The drive home via the South Coast Highway takes about four and a half hours. A long day but a satisfying one. Stop at Kojonup or Williams for a break on the way back.

Glory tip

Your WA Parks Pass covers Valley of the Giants, Stirling Range and every national park along this route, included free with every Gloria and Grace hire. The Yallingup Beach Caravan Park and Bremer Bay Caravan Park are both van-friendly and worth booking ahead in peak season.

Book Gloria or Grace at camplify.com.au