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Itinerary: The Best of the West

Perth City Skyline on the Swan River, Western Australia
Perth City Skyline on the Swan River, Western Australia

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Wine tasting in the vineyards of world-renowned Margaret River, seeing the squeaky white sand of Bunker Bay  and coming face-to-face with adorable quokkas on Rottnest Island – these are just a handful of things to expect on this brand new seven-day Inspiring Journeys tour of  beautiful Western Australia

Day 1

Perth

On arrival in the thriving Western Australian capital, take some time to relax or explore independently. You may like to take a stroll to the nearby Swan Bells, a set of 18 bells arrayed in a stunning modernist 82½ metre-high copper and glass campanile. Enjoy canapés and local wines as you get to know your Journey Director and travelling companions at a Welcome Reception this evening at your hotel.

Day 2

Perth

After a leisurely breakfast visit Elizabeth Quay, where the city meets the Swan River, and Yagan Square, one of the city’s most popular community, meeting and celebration places. Then explore beautiful Kings Park, the jewel in the city’s crown. The afternoon is free for you to explore the city further at your own pace. Tonight you’ll dine in Perth’s premier historical, cultural and dining precinct, the State Buildings.

Day 3

Margaret River

En route to the world-renowned Margaret River wine region today, you’ll discover the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of Penguin Island in the heart of the ruggedly spectacular Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. Cruise Shoalwater Bay’s wildlife sanctuary to see dolphins, penguins, sea lions and a myriad of sea-birds, then journey south to historic Busselton Jetty. Enjoy a walk on the beautifully-restored 150-year-old construction, or ride the small train to the end, 1.8 kilometres from the shore. Check in to your 5-star accommodation set on the turquoise waters of Bunker Bay, and dine at the Other Side of the Moon restaurant, named after one of the popular local surf breaks.

Day 4

Margaret River

A ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony begins your Indigenous experience at Cape Naturaliste, where a local guide will escort you on a short walk in the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse precinct. See the land through the eyes of an Indigenous custodian, and experience an artefact interpretation and didgeridoo demonstration. Then drive along peaceful vineyard-lined roads to a Margaret River winery and take a guided walk through the vines. A Local Dining Experience follows at a degustation lunch with matching wines. In the afternoon you’ll explore more of the region, and have the opportunity to spend time in the quaint town of Margaret River.

Day 5

Margaret River – Rottnest Island

Leaving the rolling wine country behind you, journey up the beautiful southwest coastline towards Fremantle. Board your ferry for the short crossing to magnificent Rottnest Island. The island was separated from the mainland around 7,000 years ago when sea-levels rose, and human artefacts dating back at least 30,000 years have been found there. The sandy beaches, abundant marine life and friendly wildlife on Rottnest will delight you. The endearing quokka, a small kangaroo-like mammal, is native to the island, where all plants and animals are protected by law. Settle in to your eco glamping tent, and watch the sun set this evening from a nearby dune.

Day 6

Rottnest Island – Fremantle

Wake up to the serenity of this natural paradise and enjoy a leisurely start to the day. Later this morning, take a guided coach tour of some of Rottnest’s most spectacular locations, and learn about the island’s diverse flora, fauna and history. This afternoon, cruise back to seaside Fremantle and, after taking some time to relax at your hotel, meet your fellow travellers for a Celebration Dinner.

Day 7

Farewell

Join a local expert guide this morning for a walking tour of historic Fremantle, known for its maritime past and Victorian architecture. Gain unique insights into the past, present and future of the port city, and enjoy its wealth of well-preserved and restored architectural buildings, many of which were convict-built during the colonial era. Your Inspiring Journey comes to an end later this morning when you’re transferred by private car to Perth Airport for your onward flight.

  • Full buffet breakfast

A Journey to the West

Travel Dates 2019

  • 21 – 27 September 2019
  • 19 – 25 October 2019
  • 16 – 22 November 2019
  • 14– 20 December 2019
  • 8 – 14 February 2020
  • 7 – 13 March 2020

Prices

  • Adult twin Share: AU$3825 pp
  • Single: From AU$4835 pp
  • Child: From AU3825 pp

For more information and to enquire about this tour visit aatkings.com/tours/a-journey-to-the-west/ or call 1300 228 546.

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