Perth

Offset by the vast tranquil waters of the Swan River, the beautiful city of Perth is a tourist's delight. Modern and vibrant, it contrasts with its historic counterpart - the port city of Fremantle, accessible within 20 minutes by car from Perth. Tourists commonly refer to Perth as the 'friendly city' and famous notables have also renamed the city after their personal experiences. Astronaut John Glenn called Perth the 'City of Lights' after his historic fly-over in 1962 and victorious America's Cup skipper Dennis Connor referred to it as the 'most isolated city in the world'.

Whet your appetite with a day on the Swan River, a picnic to the Darling Ranges, a visit to a vineyard or a stroll around Perth or Fremantle. From outdoors to indoors, a fabulous range of city and suburban shops will satisfy even the most particular tourist, with everything from traditional Australian gifts and garments, opals, Kalgoorlie gold and precious diamonds to succulent local seafood, tender red meat and fresh fruit and vegetables. Most find Perth bright, fun, friendly and 'laid back' (relaxing) but visitors are sure to find their own descriptions after their holiday.

CENTRAL CITY

Bordered by the Indian Ocean and situated on the Swan River, the capital city of Perth is a dynamic place to start a holiday in Western Australia. The sunny Mediterranean climate creates the perfect atmosphere to wander around and enjoy and easy going outdoor lifestyle and a friendliness that is second to none.

FREMANTLE

A vibrant, cosmopolitan working port city 18kms from the centre of Perth, Fremantle is a charming tourist destination with a rich maritime and cultural heritage. There is always something happening in Fremantle - festivals, multicultural events, art exhibitions, outdoor concerts, street performances, sporting events and more.

SUNSET COAST

Many of Perth's suburbs have extensive waterfront areas on the stunning Indian Ocean coastline allowing easy access to kilometres of clean, unspoilt, sandy, white beaches and awesome sunsets.

PERTH SUBURBS

Suburban Perth extends in a 40km wide strip bordered by the Indian Ocean in the west and the Darling Scarp to the east, extending north and south for 50kms in both directions from the City centre. Many suburbs have extensive waterfront areas along the magnificent winding rivers around which many water sports are centred, or on the stunning coastline allowing easy access to kilometres of clean, unspoilt, sandy, white beaches, the inviting Indian Ocean and awesome sunsets. Despite the huge area, travelling around Perth is uncomplicated with an excellent freeway system. Roads are well signposted and traffic is well controlled. Public transport services the entire greater city area well with a comprehensive combination of rail and bus services.

PERTH HILLS AND THE SWAN VALLEY

The section of the Darling Scarp colloquially know as the Perth Hills extends from the Chittering Valley in the north to Serpentine and Jarrahdale in the south; a distance of some 90 kilometres. Here you'll find pristine natural bush, wildflowers, forests, waterfalls and spectacular views. Western Australia's oldest wine growing region, the Swan Valley, is a compact area full of award-winning restaurants and wineries, galleries and a selection of fine accommodation. The Perth Hills and Swan Valley are less than 30 minutes from the City centre and make a great base for exploring Perth as well as being a leisurely day trip destination.

ROCKINGHAM AND THE PEEL REGION

From spectacular beaches to preserved wetlands and natural bush with some great attractions to visit in between, the Peel Region has something to please everyone. Rockingham is a thriving seaside resort with an easygoing lifestyle and Mandurah is a vibrant city easily accessed from Perth by car or train in under an hour. Perched on the coast overlooking the magnificent Indian Ocean, this is where the locals come to holiday. The town of Dwellingup, nestled in the jarrah forest in the Darling Ranges, is home to sections of the Bibbulmun Track, the Munda Biddi Trail, the Hotham Valley Tourist Railway and the Murray River.

THE AVON VALLEY

Just an hour from Perth, the Avon Valley will enchant you with its crisp clean air, charming architecture and magical scenery. Flowing through the valley, the Avon River winds its way through nearby towns like historical Northam where you can see white swans waddling along the river bank. Stay the night in the romantic town of York and be swept away by elegant buildings restored to their former beauty.