Chloe Ang
Image credit: Kalbarri Visitor Centre
An idyllic pink lake, a “window” carved of stone and 3.5 metre-high pillars erupting from desert floors – sounds unreal? They are, in fact, very real and can be found in Western Australia – the home to some of the most mind-blowing natural formations of Mother Nature.
Read on to discover just how beautiful these natural delights in Perth are!
Leaning Trees of Greenough
Image credit: Western Australia
About 4 hours away from Perth, the Leaning Trees of Greenough make for one unbelievably cool scene. These red river gum trees bend to impossible angles as a stunning result of weathering the southerly winds. With their strong trunks contorted and branches scraping the ground against the backdrop of Greenough’s grasslands, these trees are truly a sight to behold. Itching to take a photo?
Kalbarri National Park
Image credit: Kalbarri Visitor Centre
This popular park is home to astoundingly crafted rock formations and gorges created from the flow of the Murchison River. Explore the Kalbarri National Park for free and enjoy the wonderful sights and pit stops along the drive up north from Geraldton to Kalbarri.
Nature’s Window
Image credit: Kalbarri Visitor Centre
A favourite to visit in Kalbarri National Park is Nature’s Window, a Tumblagooda sandstone formation that takes the shape of a window, perfectly framing the river below. Don’t forget to take that perfect Instagram shot in the window itself!
Image credit: Kalbarri Visitor Centre
Z-Bend Lookout
Image credit: Western Australia
The Z-Bend Lookout offers the most magnificent views of the Murchison River Gorge. Gaze down the 150m vertical drop to view the river coursing below, lined with red river gum trees and flanked by striking Tumblagooda sandstone formations.
Eagle Gorge Lookout
Image credit: Thomas Jundt
Another lookout point from which you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the gorge is Eagle Gorge Lookout. As the name suggests, catch eagles coasting overhead or swooping in for a kill. For the best views of Kalbarri National Park, head to the peak of Eagle Gorge Lookout and be in awe of the sheer expanse of one of the most popular and accessible parks in Australia.
Kalbarri Natural Bridge and Island Rock
Image credit: Kalbarri Visitor Centre
A product of the waves’ endless crashing against the rock walls, the Kalbarri Natural Bridge and Island Rock have been carved out from the main cliffs through erosion. Admire them from the perfect vantage point up on the cliffs and keep your eyes peeled as you stroll along the cliff’s edge – you might even spot a pod of dolphins and whales depending on the season!
Hutt Lagoon
Image credit: Kalbarri Visitor Centre
The highlight of this itinerary is a trip to Hutt Lagoon, home to one of the most fascinating natural wonders in the world – the Pink Lake. Due to the presence of carotenoid-producing algae Dunaliella salina, the lake boasts a unique pink hue and can cycle through shades of bubblegum pink, lilac and magenta depending on the time of day and season. 14 kilometres long and 2.3 kilometres wide, it stands as the largest pink lake in Australia.
Image credit: Kalbarri Visitor Centre
If viewing the Pink Lake from the shore isn’t enough, experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to admire the lake from above. Hop on the Hutt Lagoon/Pink Lake Scenic Flight, which will take you along the coast for an aerial appreciation of the Pink Lake. Admire the stark contrast between the Pink Lake’s blushing shades and the bright blues of the Indian Ocean; you won’t be able to enjoy such awe-inspiring views of this incredible natural wonder anywhere else!
Image credit: Geraldton Air Charter
Pinnacles Desert
Image credit: Tourism Australia
If you’re wondering how anything can top that, be prepared to be wowed by the marvellous Pinnacles Desert. In a sea of sand dunes, these imposing limestone structures stand like mysterious figures, all uniquely shaped and patterned in an artistic display by Mother Nature.
Image credit: Olivier ROUX
The most magical time to see this popular attraction is at sunrise or sunset, when the shifting light of dawn and dusk creates a dazzling display of moving shadows. A two and half hour drive from Perth, arrive just in time for the Sunset Pinnacles Experience so you don’t miss out on this spellbinding moment!
Lancelin Sand Dunes
Image credit: Lancelin Western Australia
For a healthy dose of adventure, head two hours out of Perth to the Lancelin Sand Dunes. Climb to the top of the sand dunes and sandboard down the huge expanse of sand – now how’s that for an adrenaline rush? But before you go speeding down the slopes, don’t forget to admire the killer view of the coastline and surrounding farms while you’re up there.
Rottnest Island
Image credit: Barney Moss
Not all of Western Australia’s natural wonders are inanimate! Best known for being home to the “World’s Happiest Animal”, also known as the quokka, Rottnest Island has a rich diversity of flora and fauna just waiting to be discovered. In fact, many tourists (and even celebrities) travel far and wide to Rottnest Island, just to take a coveted selfie with this adorable animal! Don’t leave the island without going on the “hunt” (not literally of course!) for an adorable quokka to take your own mandatory #quokkaselfie. Just remember to respect the animals so that the world can continue to enjoy these jolly creatures!
Join the Discover Rottnest Island Tour that will take you on a comprehensive, guided tour around the island. Not only do you get to see all the most exciting parts of the island, the tour is complete with insightful commentary from local guides. Explore the cultural and historical aspects of the island as you appreciate the robust wildlife and verdant greenery. You’ll even have time to stroll around the village centre!
Kings Park
Image credit: Kings Park and Botanic Garden
A gem in the centre of Perth’s bustling city, Kings Park boasts splendid vantage points of the city as well as the lovely Swan River. There, you can find an abundance of native botany and lush flora as you soak in the spectacular views. Tucked away in the heart of the city, this is a brilliant stretch of scenic nature that is a must-visit in Perth.
Image credit: Kings Park and Botanic Garden
If you’re bowled over by the unbelievable plethora of natural wonders that Perth and its surrounds have to offer, wait until you see them in person!
