START / END:

Perth

TRAVEL TIME:

Year-round – best travel times from October to May

LENGTH:

Approximately 4000 kilometres

DURATION:

21 days

VEHICLE:

RedSands Toyota Hilux 4WD camper or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 4WD.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Perth, Wellington National Park, Geographe Bay, Margaret River, Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, Pemberton, Valley of the Giants, William Bay National Park, Albany, Stirling Range National Park, Fitzgerald River National Park, Esperance, Cape Le Grand National Park, Cape Arid National Park, Kalgoorlie, Lake Ballard, Wave Rock.

WHERE TO STAY:

Along this route, travellers will find a variety of privately owned campgrounds and National Park campgrounds. If you prefer fixed accommodation, you can choose between bed and breakfasts, mid-range hotels, beach resorts and award-winning boutique hotels.

PLEASE NOTE:

Some campgrounds can get busy on weekends and during Western Australian school holidays (https://www.education.wa.edu.au/future-term-dates).

Drive: Approx.183 KM

See: Wildflowers, Wellington Dam, Collie Mural Trail

Do: Kayaking, swimming, rock climbing

As you embark on your first day, you will leave behind the urban landscape and venture into the natural beauty of Wellington National Park.

As soon as you set foot in this magnificent park, you’ll be captivated by the beautiful native trees covering 17,000 hectares, including ancient jarrah, marri, and blackbutt forests. Within the park, the Collie River winds through picturesque gorges and lush forests, creating inviting pools that are perfect for a refreshing swim or grab a kayak for a leisurely paddle.

Honeymoon Pool is one of those picturesque swimming holes, located on the banks of the Collie River. With 20 campsites nestled amongst the weeping peppermint trees, Honeymoon Pool is a perfect spot to spend your first night.

During your visit, make sure to explore the Collie Mural Trail. Comprising of over 40 murals, mostly painted by local artists, the Collie Mural Trail is a contemporary collection of artwork spread throughout the town. The highlight of the trail is the 8000 square metre mega-mural – ‘Reflections’, the World’s largest dam mural.

To stay updated on the latest events and activities during your stay, visit the Collie River Valley website. They have curated essential information and an events calendar, ensuring you won’t miss out on any exciting experiences.

Overnight: Honeymoon Pool Campground

The Honeymoon Pool Campground offers shaded campsites, with many located right along the river’s edge. Most sites come equipped with private picnic tables and wood fireplaces for a cosy camping experience. While toilets are available, please note that there are no shower facilities provided.

Drive: Approx.86 KM

See: dolphins, sea lions, penguins

Do: Kayaking, Busselton Jetty, Underwater Observatory

Today, you’ll continue your trip to Busselton, with your first stop in Bunbury, at the Bunbury Farmers Market. This shop highlights the amazing local produce on offer in the region and is a good place to stock up for the next few days of travel.

For the wildlife fanatics, we recommend visiting the Dolphin Discovery Centre, where visitors can learn more about the wild but friendly dolphins of Koombana Bay. It is worth the trip to see these wild dolphins, whether on a guided boat trip or, with a bit of luck, just swimming near the banks of the Bay. For more wildlife encounters, visit the Bunbury Wildlife Park. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of native animals, providing numerous opportunities for up-close interactions.

The second day of the journey ends with a visit to the Busselton Jetty, a jetty that is approximately two kilometres long, located in the pristine waters of Geographe Bay. You can walk to the end of the jetty or take a small train. Once there, another highlight awaits you: in the observatory you can marvel at the breathtaking underwater world from the bottom of the sea – without getting wet!

Overnight: Busselton or surrounds

The family-friendly Beachlands Holiday Park is highly regarded and is just 100 meters from the beach.

Drive: Approx. 100 km via Cape Naturaliste

See: Bunker Bay Beach, Whales (Sept-Dec), Canal Rocks

Do: Ngili Cave, Learn about Noongar Culture

On the way to the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, visitors should make sure they stop at Bunker Bay Beach. On the magnificent “Cape to Cape Track”, which winds over 136km from Cape Naturaliste in the north to Cape Leeuwin in the south, you can watch whales from the rugged sea cliffs between September and December. On their way back to the Southern Ocean, the whales stop here with their calves to rest in the calm waters of Geographe Bay. Whale watching tours are available from Dunsborough at this time of the year. In Yallingup, just 20km from Cape Naturaliste you will find Ngili Cave, one of over 150 limestone caves in the Leeuwin- Naturaliste National Park.

TIP Join a tour of the cave with a local Aboriginal tour guide for an interesting insight into
Noongar culture.

Overnight: Margaret River Region

In addition to beautiful privately owned campsites (check out Wharncliffe Mill and Munday’s Campground), there are also simply equipped campsites in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. At Contos Field Campground you can wake up to the sound of the surf on the beach and hike directly to the beach from the campsite. The campsite is located near Lake Cave and only two kilometers from the famous surfing beach of Conto Springs. Another beautiful campsite in the National Park is the Boranup Campground, located in the middle of the vast Karri Forest near Margaret River. National Park campgrounds (run by the WA Parks and Wildlife Service) are available at Conto, Boranup Forest, Point Road and Jarrahdene. For more information on National Park campgrounds visit: https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park-stay.

See: Surfer’s Point Whales (May-Aug), Jewel Cave

Do: Visit Stingrays at Hamelin Bay Wine and Gourmet Food Fabulous Beaches

In Margaret River you can sunbathe on the pristine sandy beaches, kayak along the river or watch the daring surfers at the famous Surfer’s Point. Every year the Margaret River Pro Surfing World Championships are held at this surf spot. A trip to this region is incomplete without indulging in the fresh local produce and a few wineries. This area has it all… cheese, olive oil, home-brewed beer, fresh seafood and delicious chocolate. There are also many fantastic tour companies that can take you to these places and usually offer a long lunch at one of the many exquisite local wineries.

A detour to Augusta to the lighthouse at Cape Leeuwin is a must. Here at the most south-western point of the Australian continent, the Indian and the Southern Oceans meet. From mid-May to August, visitors can watch whales migrating up to the warmer waters of the Kimberley and beyond. On the way back to Margaret River you should drive along the beautiful Caves Road, even if the trip takes a little longer than on the highway. Caves Road is a highlight of the Margaret River region, known for its excellent wineries, local gourmet produce, fabulous beaches and excellent surfing spots.

Jewel Cave, the largest limestone cave in the region, can also be found along Caves Road. You will also be able to visit Hamelin Bay, where you can meet huge stingrays on the beach at certain times of the day. The route then leads back through the impressive Boranup Forest with Karri trees towering over the road, up to 70 meters high.

Overnight: Margaret River Region

Drive: Approx. 190 km

See: National Parks, Gigantic Karri Trees, Huge Sand Dunes

Do: Wine Tasting, Hiking, Tree Climbing

In the morning, continue on to Pemberton, a sleepy village in the midst of the South-West Karri forests. Here amongst giant eucalypts and wildflowers, local viticulturalists grow Chardonnay, Merlot and Pinot Noir wines. Some of Western Australia’s finest wines along with local produce such as freshly caught rainbow trout, marron (freshwater lobster, native to Western Australia) or black Manjimup perigord truffles are some of the delights you can sample in this area.

In the numerous National Parks in the region, there are some hidden treasures for adventurous folk. In the Gloucester and Warren National Park you can find the gigantic Karri trees that only grow in southwestern Australia, such as the 61-meter-high Gloucester Tree or the 75-meter-high Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree. There are great hiking trails through these forests, including the famous long-distance hiking trail the “Bibbulmun Track”. If you feel like driving instead, the Karri Forest Explorer drive links many attractions in the Pemberton area, like the Beedelup Falls, Big Brook Dam and numerous galleries and wineries.

TIP Another adventure can be experienced in Warren and D’Entrecasteaux National Park. With a RedSands 4WD you can drive through the gigantic Karri forests and then over the huge sand dune system of the “Yeagarup Sand Dunes” down to the beautiful Southern Ocean. Adrenaline rush guaranteed!

Overnight: Pemberton

In addition to excellent commercial campsites in the region, you can stay at Warren Campground located in Warren National Park, next to the Warren River. A little further towards Walpole is also another great campground, Shannon National Park Campground, where you can enjoy a warm shower (so long as you ‘stoke the donkey’! ~ A ‘donkey’ is an old fashioned hot water system).

Drive: Approx. 189 km

See: D’Entrecasteaux NP, Cliff Top Walk, Walpole Nornalup NP

Do: Hiking, Eco River Cruises, Art galleries

Today, you are embarking on a journey from Pemberton to Walpole. Your first destination is the stunning D’Entrecasteaux National Park, where you’ll be able to witness breathtaking views from various lookout points. Once you arrived in the National Park, the windy road will take you along D’Entrecasteaux Drive, a sealed and scenic drive, which shows off the impressive coastline and the majestic karri forest that surrounds it.

The Cliff Top Walk is an accessible and exciting walk. This winding walk along the cliff top connects Tookulup with Point D’Entrecasteaux, offering breathtaking views while being embraced by the winds that roar across the cliffs. The walk is approx. 1.3km one way, and we recommend allowing 1 hour.

Continuing your journey, we arrive at Walpole, you’re your destination for today. You can choose to set-up camp for the day and take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Nornalup Inlet. If you would like to learn more about the area, we highly recommend taking a cruise with WOW Wilderness Eco Cruises. They primarily operate a daily two-and-a-half-hour guided wilderness cruise into the heart of the Walpole Nornalup National Park. You also have the option to walk into the wilderness area to a secluded beach on the Southern Ocean.

If you have an appreciation for arts and culture, Walpole offers numerous galleries and art studios that are worth exploring.

Overnight: Walpole or surrounds

There are caravan parks available in Walpole, such as Coalmine Beach Holiday Park. Alternatively campgrounds can be found along the coast including Peaceful Bay, Parry Beach and Shelly Beach. For more information, visit https://www.rainbowcoast.com.au/areas/rainbowcoast/camping-in-denmark-albany-walpole.htm

Drive: Approx.121 KM

See: Giants Tree Top Walk, Quokkas, Greens Pool

Do: Hiking, Wine tasting, Swimming

Driving to Albany along the coast, visitors should not miss the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk at Walpole-Nornalup National Park. This 600m long path, which leads directly through the treetops at a height of 40m, gives great views of the old giant trees. Here you will also find cute quokkas. These furry marsupials are always associated with Rottnest Island, but they were once widespread across the mainland. Walpole-Nornalup National Park is the best place to find these little marsupials outside of Rottnest Island.

For a lunch stop along the way, we highly recommend stopping by the renowned Fish & Chips shop in Peaceful Bay, a RedSands favourite! This family operated business takes great pride in turning the fish their boat pulls from the pristine Southern Ocean into the finest, freshly cooked fish and chips.

Shortly before Denmark lies William Bay National Park with its huge heathland and gigantic granite rocks. The beautiful beaches of Elephant Rocks, Elephant Cove and Greens Pool are absolutely worth a visit for sightseeing and (temperature permitting!) a swim in the tranquil waters of the National Park. A stop in the picturesque town of Denmark for lunch, or a trip to a local winery, cheese factory or ice-cream shop is highly recommended. Visitors will also find the long-distance hiking trail “Bibbulmun Track”, crosses through this town on its way to Albany. It is worthwhile exploring a part of this award-winning hiking trail on your own or on a guided tour.

Overnight: Albany or surrounds

There are some highly rated caravan parks in the City of Albany such as the BIG4 Emu Beach Holiday Park. Alternatively, campgrounds can be found away from Albany, including Cosy Corner, Torbay Inlet Rd, Betty’s Beach, or East Bay Road. Facilities at these campgrounds are limited, however, most of them provide toilets. For more information, visit https://www.rainbowcoast.com.au/areas/rainbowcoast/camping-in-denmark-albany-walpole.htm

See: Historic Albany, Torndirrup National Park, The Gap, Natural Bridge

Do: Whale Watching, Hiking, Two Peoples Bay

Albany is the oldest settlement founded by Europeans in Western Australia. Here visitors should not miss the Torndirrup National Park, which features attractions such as the Blowholes, The Gap and the Natural Bridge. The spectacular views are particularly worthwhile between June and October, when you can watch whales directly from the huge rocks. Alternatively, join a whale watching tour and visit the Discovery Bay Museum, where you can learn more about the history of the Albany whaling station, which closed to whaling in 1978.

Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve is 35km east of Albany and is an important coastal reserve which hosts two endangered species – the Gilbert’s Potoroo and the Noisy Scrub Bird. There are some incredible hiking trails in this Nature Reserve and some stunning beaches, such as Little Beach with its stark white sand and turquoise blue waters.

Overnight: Albany or surrounds

Campsites available at Waychinicup Inlet Camping Area, Betty’s Beach, Norman’s Inlet and East Bay Road, although spots are limited.

Drive: Approx.94 KM

See: Wildlife, Ancient granite peaks, Unique flora

Do: Granite Sky Walk, Bluff Knoll, Hiking Trails

As you embark on your journey from Albany to Stirling Range National Park, make sure to include a detour through the breathtaking Porongurup National Park. Just 40km north of Albany, this heritage-listed park features many natural attractions and offers a wide variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore this amazing landscape.

Begin your day with a hike to the renowned Granite Skywalk, a must-visit attraction in Porongurup National Park. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding granite peaks and lush forest and you’re likely to encounter some of the 78 bird species and 700 flowering plants.

After your adventure in Porongurup, continue your drive towards Stirling Range National Park, located just 45km away. This pristine national park is home to one of Western Australia’s highest peaks, Bluff Knoll. Standing tall at 1095m above sea level, Bluff Knoll is considered one of Australia’s top 25 hikes. The summit of Bluff Knoll offers breathtaking vistas that will leave you speechless.

Overnight: Stirling Range National Park

Stirling Range National Park offers plenty of accommodation options. There is a campground at Moingup Springs or choose Mt Trio Bush Camp & Caravanpark, which includes facilities such as a camp kitchen, toilets and hot showers. If you are looking for fixed accommodation Porongurup and surrounds offers a range of cottages and chalets with some offering spectacular views across the vineyards.

Drive: Approx.149 KM

See: Orca’s (Jan – March), Pristine Beaches

Do: Whale tours, Bremer Bay Brewing Co, Hiking

Leaving the stunning landscapes of Stirling Range National Park behind, your journey continues east towards the coastal town of Bremer Bay. At Bremer Bay, visitors can stop by and join a tour to see killer whales (Orca) – a truly unforgettable experience. This area has the largest known congregation of Orca’s in the southern hemisphere, with the best time to see them being between January and March.

Whilst in Bremer Bay, you can explore the western side of Fitzgerald River National Park, with its pristine beaches and unique flora and fauna. This National Park is one of the largest and most botanically significant national parks in Australia. A large number of plant species found here cannot be found anywhere else, and is therefore now internationally recognised as a UNSECO Biosphere Reserve. The rolling hills, rugged cliffs, inlets and white sandy beaches can be explored on foot along sign-posted hiking trails. The wildflower season from September to November is spectacular and worth the visit.

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or in search of a delightful dining experience, make sure to pay a visit to Bremer Bay Brewing Co. This family-owned business is the product of a lifelong passion for brewing exceptional beers. In addition to its craft beers, Bremer Bay Brewing Co. offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music performances on most Saturdays.

Overnight: Bremer Bay or surrounds

Campsites are available at St Mary Inlet right on the beach, where you can watch whales pass by in the season (July to October). Bremer Bay also has a privately run campsite that also offers fixed accommodation.

Drive: Approx.230 KM

See: Magnificent Views, Fitzgerald National Park

Do: Hiking, Explore, Mt Barren

Fitzgerald River National Park is a whopping 2,972 km2 – that is larger than the whole of Luxembourg! Due to its conservation status the area is separated into two recreational zones by a ‘wilderness core’, which is off limits to traffic. The eastern side of Fitzgerald River National Park is not to be missed, but bring your hiking boots!

You can hike up East Mt Barren and enjoy the everlasting views of West Beach and Quoin Head. This is a 2.6 km return hike through some steep and rocky terrain (moderately difficult classification). Allow 2-3 hours return, which includes some time to stop and soak in the magnificent views. Once you leave the park, you can stop at the sleepy village of Hopetoun and visit some of its local beaches.

Overnight: Fitzgerald River National Park (East)

The eastern side of the park has two campgrounds: Hamersley Inlet and Four Mile Campground. Both have new facilities (toilets and BBQ facilities).

Drive: Approx.216 KM

See: Local Artworks, Munglinup Beach

Do: Ravensthorpe Museum, Snorkelling, Swimming

On the way to Esperance you can travel through the agricultural town on Ravensthorpe. Here you can enjoy some lunch at one of the local cafes and explore the Ravensthorpe Museum where local volunteers are always happy for a chat! Driving into town you cannot miss the massive silo art work of native Banksia flowers. This painting took 31 days and 338 litres of paint to create!

Alternative route: Munglinup Beach is located 80km east of Ravensthorpe and an hour’s drive from Esperance. There are camping spots right by the beach (toilets only) or at the local privately run Munglinup Beach Park. This little beach is protected by reef, so is perfect for snorkelling, swimming and fishing. This is a hidden gem!

Overnight: Esperance or surrounds

There are some great caravan parks in Esperance, however, if you prefer somewhere a little quiter, other campgrounds are available. Munglinup Beach, Starvation Bay, Mason’s Bay and Stokes Inlet are all found west of Esperance. There are fewer options East of Esperance, unless you want to head out to Cape Le Grand National Park.

See: Twilight Beach, Pink Lake -Lake Hillier, Cape Le Grande National Park

Do: Boat Cruise, Great Ocean Drive, Scenic Flight

Begin the day with a half-day boat cruise and explore the island world aboard Esperance Island Cruises. The cruise takes you through 8 of the 105 islands that are part of the Recherche Archipelago, experiencing the spectacular wildlife up-close and personal in their natural environment. Snorkelling equipment is provided if you want to experience swimming in some of the worlds’ clearest water.

For a delicious lunch stop, you can’t go wrong with Lucky Bay Brewing. The only brewery in WA that uses raw barley direct from local farmers. They also have an amazing menu featuring fresh, local ingredients. The wood-fired pizza’s are hand made using locally grown wheat flour and yeast from their beers.

Don’t miss out on exploring the spectacular coastal scenery along the 38km long Great Ocean Drive. The road leads past deserted dreamy beaches, such as Twilight Beach and Pink Lake, whose waters glow pink under certain weather conditions. Alternatively, if you feel like a big treat, you could take a scenic flight out to Lake Hillier and over Cape Le Grande National Park. Lake Hillier is a permanently vibrant pink colour, due to the presence of a naturally occurring salt-loving bacteria Dunaliella.

Overnight: Esperance or surrounds

Drive: Approx. 55 KM

See: Frenchman Peak, Lucky Bay, Pristine Beaches

Do: Relax, Explore, Coastal Trails and Breathtaking Views

Welcome to Cape Le Grand National Park, a pristine oasis renowned for its breathtaking scenery and picturesque beaches. Marvel at the massive granite rocks that decorate the coastline, wander through untouched heathlands, and feel the soft white sand beneath your feet. Cape Le Grand NP is a perfect place to immerse yourself in nature by taking one of the many hiking trails, choose one of the many water-based activities such as fishing, snorkelling, swimming or kayaking or simply kick back and relax.

If you’re up for some adventure, embark on the challenging Frenchman Peak hike. From the 262 m high peak you can enjoy breathtaking views of the 100+ picturesque islands of the Recherche Archipelago.

One of the must-visit spots within the park is Lucky Bay, a slice of paradise where kangaroos are known to enjoy sunbathing on the snow-white beach. Relax and unwind in this idyllic setting, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Overnight: Lucky Bay Campground

At the Lucky Bay campsite, you’ll find all the amenities you need, including solar showers, gas BBQs, and toilets, making it the perfect place to set-up for the night.

See: Pristine Beaches, Whistling Rock, Thistle Cove

Do: Coastal Trail, Relax

As you wake up amidst the peaceful surroundings of Cape Le Grand National Park, you’ll quickly realise that one day simply isn’t enough to fully appreciate all the wonders that await. That’s why we continue exploring the hidden gems of Cape Le Grand today.

Begin your day with a visit to Thistle Cove, a hidden gem nestled within the park. Thistle Cove is a small, secluded cove away from the busy crowds at Lucky Bay. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, admiring the striking geological features and embracing the serenity of this untouched corner of the park.

Located a short walk from the car park at Thistle Cove is the Whistling Rock. Whistling Rock is a giant bent slab, standing vertically and curved in such a way that ambient sounds are focused and amplified.

If you are feeling adventurous, consider embarking on the Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail. The trail is a spectacular 17 KM hiking trail*. The experienced walker can enjoy some of the best scenery in Australia, by trekking from bay to bay. Along the way you’ll come across some amazing sights, such as kangaroos basking on pristine white beaches & dolphins surfing the aqua waters.

*Be sun smart and make sure to pack enough water for your hike.

Overnight: Le Grand Beach campground

For a different camping experience, try the well-equipped campsite at Cape le Grand Beach, just a few kilometres away from Lucky Bay.

Drive: Approx.110 KM

See: Night Skies, Beautiful Landscape, Granite Cliffs

Do: Four-wheel Drive, Hiking, Swimming

If you like the idea of driving your RedSands 4WD along endless white beaches, camping under a starry night sky and swimming in crystal clear water, you should not miss Cape Arid National Park east of Esperance.

The majority of roads in the park are accessible only with four-wheel drive, so there are typically less visitors here than at Cape Le Grand. Please check road conditions with the National Park Rangers or at the information bays before venturing along 4WD tracks as some can be closed when heavy rains occur.

Those who venture to Cape Arid are rewarded with a beautiful coastal landscape of granite cliffs, sand dunes and groves of Mallee trees, Banksia and Paperbarks. Signposted hiking trails take between one and four hours and take you deep into the native bush and along the coastal heathlands overlooking the Southern Ocean.

Overnight: Cape Arid National Park or surrounds

Campsites available at Belinup, Yokinup Mia Mia (Thomas River Campground – a RedSands favourite!), Seal Creek, Jorndee Creek and Mt Ragged. Alternatively, you can stay at Duke of Orleans Bay Caravan Park, although you will miss the delight of sharing your morning coffee with the Honeyeater Birds in the National Park!

Drive: Approx.490 KM

See: The world’s largest Gold Mine, Gold Rush History

Do: Fascinating Museums, Guided Tours

The route continues north via Esperance and the Coolgardie-Esperance Highway. Kalgoorlie is steeped in history and a visit to one of the many museums is a must. Its well-preserved and restored Victorian-style houses make the city look like a living museum. The former goldmine settlement is home to the world’s largest gold mine, Australia’s eight-square-kilometer ‘Super Pit’. From the lookout you can admire the huge mine up close, alternatively, you can participate in a guided tour of the mine area. At the end of the day, enjoy dinner on the balcony of the time- honored Palace Hotel.

Overnight: Kalgoorlie

Discovery Parks – Kalgoorlie Goldfields is a well-equipped caravan park with powered and unpowered sites, amenities, and facilities such as a pool, camp kitchen, and BBQ area.

Drive: Approx.304 KM

See: Golden Quest, Discovery Trail

Do: Ghost Town, Finding Gold, Gold Washing

While driving along the Golden Quest Discovery Trail, visitors can learn the ABC of gold washing and visit abandoned gold mining towns. On your journey north, take a short break at Niagara Dam before reaching Kookynie, where you can try your luck at finding gold. The ghost town of Gwalia, three hours by car from Kalgoorlie, is worth a detour. In the historic town you can still visit gold rush accommodation and shops. Even the former home of mine manager Herbert Hoover, who later led the fortunes of the United States as the 31st President, still exists. Today, the building serves as a bed and breakfast for travellers.

Overnight: Overnight: Leonora or Gwalia

Leonora Caravan Park is conveniently located right in the centre of town. The park provides powered and unpowered sites, along with amenities like showers, laundry, and a camp kitchen. Gwalia Ghost Town offers a unique camping experience within the historic Gwalia Ghost Town. It’s a self-contained campsite, and you can explore the town’s heritage buildings.

Drive: Approx.387 KM

See: Art Exhibition “Inside Australia”

After about 100km you will reach the town of Menzies, here you should definitely turn to Lake Ballard (another 51km). Here, in the middle of the huge salt lake, you can admire the exhibition “Inside Australia” by Antony Gormley. Situated over a ten-square-kilometer area are 51 incredible sculptures, which represent the residents of nearby Menzies.

Fun Fact: Adam Sands, Founder and Managing Director of RedSands Campers used to live in Kalgoorlie and nearby Menzies as a child. He would go looking for ‘yabbies’ in Kookynie Dam and go gold prospecting with his Dad.

Overnight: Kalgoorlie or Lake Ballard

At Lake Ballard, you can camp for free – right next to the huge, dried up salt lake. The campsite has fire pits and self-composting toilets, but you have to bring water (supplied in your RedSands 4WD Camper).

Drive: Approx.520 KM

See: Wave Rock, White Kangaroos, Aboriginal Rock Art

Do: Climb Wave Rock, Wave Rock Wildlife Park

From Kalgoorlie you track west along the Great Eastern Highway to Merredin. From there, the route continues to Hyden to the largest wave in Australia: the 15m high and 110m long granite ‘Wave Rock’. This 2.7 billion year old rock can be climbed while admiring the beautiful sunset with the golden wheat fields in the background. More information is available at the Wave Rock Visitor Center. Around the Wave Rock are more small rocky waves and the Mulkas Cave, where you can visit ancient Aboriginal rock art. Another highlight is the Wave Rock Wildlife Park with its rare white kangaroos and koalas.

Overnight: Hyden

‘The Camp’ is located 1.5km from the Hyden Townsite offering 16 large unpowered nature-based camping sites with access to potable water and disability accessible toilet.
Wave Rock Caravan Park is a premium caravan park offering powered and un-powered sites as well as washroom facilities, BBQ’s, swimming pool, shop and a kids playground.

Drive: Approx. 335 KM

See: Changing Landscape, Historical York

The final leg of the journey is an approximately four-hour drive back to Perth. Starting in Hyden, you travel through Kondinin and Corrigin. From here, the landscape changes from golden wheat fields to green hills. Stop in the historic city of York to have a coffee and visit the town’s attractions before embarking on the final 90km back to Perth.