Play Perth Differently at Matagarup Mini Golf

Matagarup Mini Golf

Perth holidays do not have to be filled entirely with major attractions and carefully planned sightseeing. Sometimes an hour with a putter, a scorecard and a little friendly competition is exactly what an itinerary needs.

On the banks of the Swan River beside Matagarup Bridge and Optus Stadium, Matagarup Mini Golf provides an 18-hole outdoor experience that feels distinctly connected to Western Australia. Open for both day and evening play, it is an easy addition to a Perth visit whether travellers have a full week in the city or only a short stopover.

Mini Golf with a Western Australian Setting

The first thing separating Matagarup Mini Golf from a generic mini golf course is its setting. The course is Western Australian-inspired and incorporates native landscaping, sculptures, water features and a creek, with Matagarup Bridge forming part of the backdrop. It sits between The Camfield and Matagarup Zip+Climb in Burswood Park.

The operator promotes it as "Matagarup Mini Golf. Perth's Biggest!", but the location is arguably the more interesting story for travellers. Between holes, there are constant reminders that this is Perth. The Swan River is close by, Optus Stadium dominates the precinct and the distinctive shape of Matagarup Bridge rises beside the course.

Eighteen Holes and No Experience Required

Matagarup Mini Golf

The architecturally designed course contains 18 holes with different routes, slopes, turns and challenges. No golfing experience is necessary.

That makes it easy for families, couples, groups of friends or travellers simply looking for something social to do between more conventional sightseeing stops. A round takes approximately 60 minutes.

There is also something about mini golf that turns otherwise reasonable people unexpectedly competitive. A casual first hole can quickly become a contest involving scorecard scrutiny, disputed strokes and increasingly ambitious attempts to avoid obstacles. That is part of the fun.

Day, Night or a Perth Stopover

One of Matagarup Mini Golf's advantages for visitors is its usefulness when time in Perth is limited.

The Burswood location is relatively close to Perth Airport and central Perth, while Mini Golf, Matagarup Zip+Climb, Optus Stadium and the Swan River are concentrated in one precinct. That makes the area practical for travellers building a shorter itinerary.

The course also operates during daytime and evening periods, with lighting giving it a different atmosphere after sunset. Current opening hours change seasonally and should be checked before travelling.

A morning in Perth could therefore finish with a round beside the river, while an afternoon visit could easily extend into dinner or an evening elsewhere around Burswood.

Something Different for Different Travellers

Matagarup Mini Golf

Mini golf has another useful characteristic for holiday groups. People do not need identical interests or fitness levels to participate together.

The course is suitable for family outings, dates and groups of friends, while private and corporate group bookings are also part of the venue's offering. Children over five are generally best suited to the experience, while those under 12 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian. Accessibility has also been incorporated into the design.

The front nine holes are wheelchair and pram friendly, and each has two routes, allowing guests using that section to complete the equivalent of 18 holes. Companion Cards are accepted.

Make a Little More of the Precinct

Matagarup Zip+Climb is only a short walk away, making it possible for groups or families to combine a relaxed round with a much more energetic bridge experience. For visitors attending an event at Optus Stadium, exploring the Swan River or spending time around Burswood, Mini Golf can also fill that useful space between major activities. And because no special skills or preparation are required, it is one of those attractions that can work just as well as a planned booking as it can when somebody simply says, "What should we do next?"

Your Next Perth Adventure Might Need a Putter

Matagarup Mini Golf

Not every memorable holiday experience needs to involve an epic journey. Sometimes it is an hour outside, beside the river, competing with friends or family while one of Perth's most distinctive bridges sits in the background. That is the charm of Matagarup Mini Golf.

It is easy to understand, easy to fit into an itinerary and just competitive enough to give everyone something to talk about afterwards. Choose a ball. Pick up a putter and see who really has the best short game.

Matagarup Mini Golf

Western Australian-inspired 18-hole outdoor mini golf beside the Swan River in Burswood Park.
Experience: 18 holes of outdoor mini golf through native landscaping, sculptures, rock features and water features.
Allow: Approximately 60 minutes for a round.
Price: $25 per adult and $18 per child. Check current pricing when booking.
Opening: Seven days, with day and night play. Hours vary seasonally.
Children: Best suited to children over five. Children under 12 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian.
Accessibility: The front nine is wheelchair and pram friendly, with two playing routes on each hole enabling 18-hole play. Companion Cards are accepted.
Location: Northern end of Camfield Drive, Burswood Park, Burswood, Western Australia.
Website: https://perthminigolf.com.au/
Phone: 0408 707 347
Email: info@perthminigolf.com.au

Ready to tee off? Check current opening hours and secure a tee time through the Matagarup Mini Golf website.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Great Ocean Drive Esperance: Discover Western Australia's Turquoise Coast

West Beach

A Scenic Road Trip Around Esperance

Few Australian coastal drives combine brilliant white beaches, turquoise water, granite formations and spectacular ocean views quite like the Great Ocean Drive in Esperance, Western Australia.

The approximately 40-kilometre coastal loop, also known as the Great Ocean Drive Esperance, is an easy way to discover some of the region's most beautiful beaches and bays. Beginning in Esperance, the self-drive route passes West Beach, Blue Haven Beach, Twilight Beach, Ten Mile Lagoon and Eleven Mile Beach before returning towards town.

For travellers exploring Australia's Golden Outback, the Great Ocean Drive offers a memorable coastal adventure that can be enjoyed over a leisurely day or extended into a multi-day experience.

Day 1: Esperance to Observatory Point

West Beach

Start the journey in Esperance, also known by its traditional name Kepa Kurl, and follow the coast towards West Beach, Blue Haven Beach, Salmon Beach and Fourth Beach.

The combination of white sand, clear water and granite formations creates spectacular scenery along this section of the route. Between December and February, visitors may also see schools of salmon moving along the coast.

Continue to Observatory Point for sweeping views across Esperance Bay and towards Twilight Beach. The elevated viewpoint is an excellent place to appreciate the scale of the coastline and watch for marine wildlife.

From June to October, migrating whales may be visible offshore, while dolphins can also be spotted in the waters around Esperance.

Day 2: Observatory Point to Ten Mile Lagoon

Nine Mile Beach 

The journey continues past some of Esperance's famous swimming beaches before reaching Ten Mile Lagoon.

Twilight Beach is one of the standout stops along the Great Ocean Drive, with sheltered water created by the limestone reef that fringes parts of the Esperance coastline.

Further along, Nine Mile Beach leads towards Ten Mile Lagoon, where calm water and abundant marine life provide opportunities for swimming and snorkelling.

With suitable conditions, snorkellers may encounter colourful marine life and keep an eye out for leafy sea dragons among the underwater environment.

Day 3: Ten Mile Lagoon to Esperance

Eleven Mile Beach

Continue towards Eleven Mile Beach, another beautiful coastal stop where visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkelling and the surrounding natural scenery.

The route eventually turns inland on the return journey to Esperance. Travellers can visit Pink Lake, although the lake is currently more white than pink. Its surrounding area remains attractive for bushwalking and birdwatching.

Travellers wanting to see the famous pink waters of Lake Hillier can consider a scenic flight from the Esperance region, subject to availability and conditions.

Back in Esperance, allow time to explore the town's museum, galleries, craft shops and restored heritage buildings.

Plan Your Great Ocean Drive Adventure

The Great Ocean Drive Esperance

The Great Ocean Drive Esperance is ideal for travellers wanting to combine a Western Australia road trip with swimming, snorkelling, wildlife watching and spectacular coastal scenery.

Conditions can change, so travellers should check local weather, road and beach conditions before setting out. Allow extra time for the many scenic stops, as the beauty of the coastline makes rushing from one attraction to the next unnecessary.

For visitors seeking some of Australia's finest beaches, the Great Ocean Drive provides an unforgettable introduction to the coastal beauty of Esperance and Kepa Kurl.

Australia's Golden Outback

Website: https://www.australiasgoldenoutback.com/
Email: info@australiasgoldenoutback.com
Phone: +61 8 9482 8400
Address: Level 10, 1 William Street, Perth WA 6000, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

See Perth from a New Perspective on Matagarup Bridge

Matagarup Zip+Climb

Perth is a city shaped by water, wide skies and the outdoors. Visitors usually experience it from the Swan River foreshore, Kings Park, the city streets or perhaps from a boat on the river. Matagarup Zip+Climb offers a considerably higher viewpoint.

Set on the distinctive Matagarup Bridge beside Optus Stadium, the experience combines a true bridge climb, panoramic city views and, for those choosing the full experience, a 400-metre zipline across the Swan River.

The operator calls it "Perth's Ultimate Adventure", and it is certainly a very different way to see the city.

A Bridge Adventure That Starts on the Bridge

Around the world, plenty of ziplines operate near bridges or travel towards them. Matagarup Zip+Climb makes a more specific claim. It describes itself as home to "the world's only zipline from a bridge", because participants climb the actual bridge structure, step onto a launch platform integrated into it and launch directly from the bridge itself.

The full Zip+Climb begins with 314 steps and a guided journey up and through the sweeping arches of Matagarup Bridge. This is not simply a staircase to a lookout. Guests climb steep sections, negotiate beams and make their way through the structure before reaching the glass-floor SkyView platform, 72 metres above the Swan River. From there, Perth opens out below.

There are 360-degree views across the river, the city skyline, Optus Stadium and the surrounding Burswood precinct. It is a familiar city viewed from somewhere most visitors would never normally stand.

Then Comes the Flight

Matagarup Zip+Climb

After time at SkyView, participants descend to the 35-metre zipline launch platform. Then comes the moment that gives the experience its very different finish.

Clipped onto one of the dual ziplines, guests launch from the bridge and travel approximately 400 metres across the Swan River at speeds of up to 75 kilometres an hour. It changes the experience from sightseeing into something much more memorable. The climb gives visitors time to absorb the scale of the bridge and the city around it. The zipline provides a much faster perspective on the same landscape.

Adventure Without Leaving Perth

One of Matagarup Zip+Climb's advantages for travellers is its location. There is no lengthy transfer out from the city. The experience sits on the Burswood Peninsula, beside Optus Stadium and only minutes from central Perth. The precinct also contains restaurants, riverside spaces and Matagarup Mini Golf nearby. That makes it particularly easy to incorporate into a short Perth stay, an event weekend or a day exploring the city.

It also works well for groups. Matagarup Zip+Climb offers private experiences for corporate groups, schools, social clubs, incentive groups and other private bookings. The neighbouring Mini Golf venue means larger groups can also combine adventure with a more relaxed activity in the same precinct.

Choose Your Level of Adventure

Matagarup Zip+Climb

Not every visitor needs to tackle the complete experience. The two-hour Zip+Climb is the full experience, travelling to SkyView before finishing on the 400-metre zipline.

The Express Zip is the shortcut. It takes around 90 minutes, with guests climbing approximately 150 steps to the 35-metre launch platform before taking the same zipline across the river.

For visitors attracted by the climb and views but not the zipline, the 90-minute Bridge Climb travels up and over the bridge via SkyView before returning on foot.

This variety is useful when friends, couples or family members have different ideas about what constitutes a holiday adventure.

Safe by Design. Fun by Nature.

Before setting out, guests receive a safety briefing and are fitted with a full-body harness, helmet and specialised climbing equipment.

Participants remain connected to the safety system throughout the climbing experience, while enclosed rubber-soled footwear is required. Phones and cameras cannot be carried onto the bridge, but souvenir photographs are included with the ticket and provided afterwards.

Matagarup Zip+Climb summarises its approach as "Safe by Design. Fun by Nature."

There are age, height, weight, fitness and medical participation requirements, so travellers should check these before booking. The full experience currently has a minimum age of eight years, minimum height of 120 centimetres and minimum weight of 30 kilograms.

Put Perth in a Different Perspective

Matagarup Zip+Climb

Cities are often remembered through particular moments rather than a checklist of landmarks. Standing 72 metres above the Swan River while Perth stretches away around you is one of those moments.

Launching from the side of the bridge and travelling across the river is another. For visitors looking to put something genuinely different between Perth's beaches, restaurants, riverfront and city attractions, Matagarup Bridge provides an adventure that is unmistakably connected to its location.

Climb the bridge. Take in the view. Then, if you are ready, take the fast way back down.

Matagarup Zip+Climb

Experiences: Zip+Climb, Express Zip, Bridge Climb and private group experiences.
Duration: Approximately two hours for Zip+Climb and 90 minutes for Express Zip or Bridge Climb.
Prices: Current advertised prices start from $165 for Zip+Climb, $119 for Express Zip and $99 for Bridge Climb. Check current prices and availability when booking.
Location: Northern end of Camfield Drive, Burswood Park, Burswood, Western Australia.
Website: https://www.zipclimb.com.au/
Phone: 1800 947 546
Email: info@zipclimb.com.au

Ready to climb? Check current sessions and book directly through the Matagarup Zip+Climb website.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Golden Quest Discovery Trail: Follow Western Australia's Legendary Gold Rush Route

A Six-Day Journey Through Western Australia's Goldfields

Australia's largest open-pit gold mine

For travellers wanting to explore the history, landscapes and characters of Australia's outback, the Golden Quest Discovery Trail offers an unforgettable six-day road trip through Western Australia's Goldfields.

Covering approximately 2,224 kilometres, the self-drive journey from Perth into the Goldfields follows the dramatic legacy of the 1890s gold rush, connecting historic mining towns, remote desert landscapes, abandoned settlements and remarkable contemporary art.

The route provides an opportunity to experience the Goldfields at your own pace, with time to discover the stories behind Western Australia's enduring gold-mining heritage.

From Perth to Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Court Hotel, Boulder

The adventure begins in Perth before heading east towards Kalgoorlie-Boulder, following the historic route of the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme from Mundaring Weir.

Coolgardie is an important stop along the way. Gold was discovered here in 1892, helping trigger one of Australia's great gold rushes and transforming the region.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder remains the heart of the Goldfields and combines grand heritage architecture with a working mining industry. Visitors can discover the region's history at the Western Australian Museum and experience the extraordinary scale of the Super Pit, one of Australia's most famous open-cut gold mines.

For panoramic views, Mount Charlotte provides an impressive vantage point, particularly as the lights of Kalgoorlie-Boulder begin to appear after sunset.

Historic Goldfields Towns and Lake Ballard

Lake Ballard

Leaving Kalgoorlie-Boulder, the Golden Quest Discovery Trail ventures deeper into the Goldfields, passing historic settlements including Broad Arrow, Ora Banda, Siberia and Goongarrie before reaching Menzies.

The landscape becomes increasingly remote, making the journey itself an important part of the experience.

From Menzies, travellers can venture towards Lake Ballard, where one of Western Australia's most striking outdoor art installations awaits. British sculptor Antony Gormley's Inside Australia comprises 51 steel sculptures spread across the vast salt lake, creating an extraordinary contrast between human forms and the stark desert landscape.

Ghost Towns, Historic Hotels and Outback Stories

State Hotel,  Gwalia

The journey continues through places that reveal the boom-and-bust history of the Goldfields.

Niagara Dam and the former gold-mining settlement of Kookynie provide fascinating glimpses into the region's past. Once home to around 1,500 miners, Kookynie was a bustling centre during the gold rush era.

Leonora retains much of its historic character, while nearby Gwalia is one of Australia's most evocative gold-mining ghost towns. Its preserved buildings and historic hotel provide an atmospheric reminder of the people who once lived and worked in this remote landscape.

The trail continues towards Laverton, passing abandoned mining areas and expansive outback scenery.

Wildlife, Wilderness and the Road Home

Exchange Hotel, Kalgoorlie

The return journey towards Kalgoorlie-Boulder takes a scenic route through the Goldfields landscape, with opportunities to spot native wildlife including kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles.

After days of exploring remote roads, historic towns and extraordinary landscapes, Kalgoorlie-Boulder's historic pubs provide a fitting place to relax and reflect on the journey.

Plan Your Golden Quest Adventure

The Golden Quest Discovery Trail is more than a road trip. It is a journey through Western Australia's gold-mining history, connecting heritage towns, dramatic landscapes, Aboriginal country, contemporary art and the enduring spirit of the outback.

Golden Quest Discovery Trail

Travellers should check current road conditions, accommodation availability, fuel stops and local travel information before departure, as distances between services can be considerable.

For those seeking an authentic Western Australia outback road trip, the Golden Quest Discovery Trail offers an unforgettable way to discover the Goldfields beyond the major tourist routes.

Australia's Golden Outback

Website: https://www.australiasgoldenoutback.com/
Email: info@australiasgoldenoutback.com
Phone: +61 8 9482 8400
Address: Level 10, 1 William Street, Perth WA 6000, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Pathways to Wave Rock: An Unforgettable Western Australia Wheatbelt Road Trip

Discover Australia's Golden Outback by Road

For travellers wanting to experience Western Australia's vast Wheatbelt at their own pace, the Pathways to Wave Rock self-drive itinerary offers a memorable journey from Perth through historic country towns, farming landscapes, salt lakes, granite formations and one of Australia's most recognisable natural attractions.

The route is designed as a three-day road trip, although travellers can easily allow additional time to explore the communities and attractions along the way. Australia's Golden Outback describes the journey as a changing landscape of rural scenery and welcoming Wheatbelt towns leading to Wave Rock at Hyden.

Day 1: Perth to Hyden and Wave Rock

Hippo's Yawn

Leaving Perth, the journey heads east through the Wheatbelt towards Corrigin and Hyden. Corrigin is a popular stop, known for its Dog Cemetery and surrounding scenic attractions.

The highlight of the day is Wave Rock, a spectacular granite formation rising about 15 metres high and stretching approximately 110 metres. Created by millions of years of weathering and erosion, the enormous wave-shaped rock is one of Australia's best-known inland natural icons.

Near Wave Rock, travellers can explore Hippo's Yawn, while the nearby Hyden area provides opportunities to discover Mulka's Cave and The Humps, adding Indigenous history and ancient landscapes to the journey.

Day 2: Hyden to Bruce Rock

Kokerbin Rock

The second day heads through the Wheatbelt towards Lake Grace, Kulin, Kondinin, Narembeen and Bruce Rock.

Kulin is home to the colourful Tin Horse Highway, where imaginative metal horse sculptures create an unusual roadside attraction. Continuing through the farming country, travellers can explore Yeerakine Rock and Narembeen, where local heritage provides an insight into life in Western Australia's Wheatbelt.

Bruce Rock offers further opportunities to discover regional history and public art. Nearby Shackleton is home to a sculpture park and what is promoted as Australia's smallest bank, while Kokerbin Rock provides spectacular views across the surrounding countryside.

Day 3: Bruce Rock to Perth

El Toro sculpture by artist Jordan Sprigg

The return journey provides more opportunities to explore the Wheatbelt before reaching Perth.

Quairading is an appealing stop, with the life-size El Toro Spanish bull sculpture greeting visitors in the town centre. Nature reserves and nearby attractions provide opportunities for walks and wildflower viewing, particularly during the spring season.

The journey can continue towards York, one of Western Australia's historic towns, where colonial architecture, heritage buildings, cafes and local attractions provide a relaxing final stop before returning to Perth.

A Road Trip Through Changing Landscapes

Pathways to Wave Rock demonstrates why a Western Australia road trip can be as much about the journey as the destination. Golden wheat fields, country towns, salt lakes, granite outcrops, wildflowers and Aboriginal heritage create constantly changing scenery across the Wheatbelt.

The official itinerary recommends checking current road conditions, travelling according to conditions and carrying a detailed road map. Distances and driving times are guides and can vary according to the route taken.

Pathways to Wave Rock

For travellers seeking a self-drive holiday in Western Australia, the Pathways to Wave Rock journey offers an inspiring way to discover Australia's Golden Outback beyond the major cities.

Australia's Golden Outback

Website: https://www.australiasgoldenoutback.com/
Email: info@australiasgoldenoutback.com
Phone: +61 8 9482 8400
Address: Level 10, 1 William Street, Perth WA 6000, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Cindy Poole Glass Artist: Discover Esperance Through Art, Glass and Sustainability

Cindy Poole

A Unique Glass Art Experience in Esperance

Visitors exploring Esperance in Western Australia can discover a different side of the region at Cindy Poole Glass Artist, where contemporary glass art, local stories and sustainable design come together in a working gallery and studio.

Located near Pink Lake and just off Great Ocean Drive, the gallery showcases handcrafted kiln-formed glass artworks inspired by the landscapes, wildlife and natural beauty of Esperance. The studio has developed its glass practice since 1995, transforming glass through heat, layering and detailed craftsmanship.

Discover the Art of Kiln-Formed Glass

A visit to Cindy Poole Glass Artist goes beyond browsing a traditional gallery. Visitors can explore jewellery, sculptural artworks, homewares and other contemporary glass creations while learning about the techniques used to transform raw and reclaimed materials.

The gallery's collections include glass jewellery, sculptures, wearable art and functional pieces, with recurring themes drawn from nature and the Esperance environment. Some works incorporate reclaimed architectural glass and recycled glass bottles, giving discarded materials a new purpose through creative design.

Sustainability Meets Creative Design

Esperance Whale Tail. Public artwork
by Cindy Poole & Jason Wooldridge

Sustainability is an important part of Cindy Poole's glass practice. Reclaimed and recycled glass can be transformed into attractive objects for everyday use, demonstrating how materials that might otherwise become waste can be given a new life.

The approach provides travellers with an opportunity to discover Australian-made art while learning about creative reuse, circular design and the possibilities of sustainable craftsmanship. The gallery experience explores the processes and stories behind the artworks and the role of recycled glass in the studio.

Take a Piece of Esperance Home

For visitors wanting a memorable souvenir of Western Australia, the gallery offers a wide selection of handcrafted pieces, including jewellery, vessels, tableware, sculptures and decorative artworks.

Nature provides a strong source of inspiration, with works featuring themes such as whale tails, leafy sea dragons, ocean forms and the Esperance landscape. Cindy Poole has also contributed to public art projects in the region, including the Esperance Whale Tail.

Get Hands-On with a Glass Workshop

Cindy Poole

Travellers can take their experience further by booking a guided studio tour or hands-on workshop. The Discover experience provides a behind-the-scenes look at the gallery and studio, including the design process, equipment and skills involved in creating kiln-fired glass art.

For those wanting to create their own keepsake, Discover and Create experiences provide an opportunity to participate in the making process and take home a personal glass memento of an Esperance holiday.

For travellers exploring Australia's Golden Outback, Cindy Poole Glass Artist offers a creative Esperance attraction where art, local storytelling, craftsmanship and sustainability meet.

Cindy Poole Glass Artist

Website: https://www.cindypoole.com.au/
Email: sales@cindypoole.com.au
Phone: +61 497 714 059
Address: 23 Longbottom Lane, Esperance WA 6450, Australia
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 1.00pm to 4.00pm; private appointments available by arrangement.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Ningaloo Stars in Esperance: Discover the Wonders of the Southern Night Sky

Ningaloo Stars 

Stargazing Under the Dark Skies of Esperance

Esperance is famous for its spectacular beaches, turquoise waters and untouched natural landscapes, but after sunset another extraordinary attraction appears above the region.

Ningaloo Stars brings guided astronomy experiences to Esperance, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the southern night sky using premium telescopes while learning about astronomy, science and ancient stories connected with the stars.

As part of its regional Western Australia program, Ningaloo Stars conducts seasonal astronomy sessions in Esperance at locations including Esperance Bird and Animal Park and Esperance Stonehenge.

A Guided Journey Through the Night Sky

The experience begins with a laser-guided tour of the sky, helping visitors identify stars, planets and constellations that might otherwise be difficult to recognise.

The Ningaloo Stars team combines modern astronomy with storytelling and cultural perspectives, explaining the science behind what can be seen overhead while exploring the ways people across generations and cultures have understood the night sky.

For visitors who have never looked through a telescope before, the experience provides an accessible introduction to astronomy. For experienced stargazers, the opportunity to observe celestial objects through high-quality telescopes provides another reason to spend an evening beneath the Esperance sky.

See Planets, Star Clusters and Deep-Sky Objects

Ningaloo Stars 

One of the highlights of an Esperance astronomy night is the chance to view celestial objects through Ningaloo Stars' telescopes.

Depending on the season and conditions, guests can explore planets, star clusters, nebulae and other deep-space objects that are difficult or impossible to see clearly with the naked eye.

Rather than simply pointing out objects in the sky, the guides explain what visitors are seeing and encourage questions throughout the session. The experience is designed for both beginners and astronomy enthusiasts.

An Evening for Families and Travellers

Ningaloo Stars describes its Esperance sessions as welcoming to families, photographers, travellers and local residents. Sessions include comfortable seating, blankets and warm drinks, creating a relaxed way to spend an evening outdoors.

The experience also provides an opportunity to appreciate the importance of dark skies. Away from major urban centres, reduced light pollution allows visitors to see more of the stars and experience the southern sky in greater detail.

Add Stargazing to an Esperance Holiday

Ningaloo Stars 

For travellers exploring Western Australia's south coast, Ningaloo Stars offers a different perspective on Esperance. After spending the day discovering beaches, coastal scenery and natural attractions, visitors can finish the day looking upward at planets, stars and distant objects across the universe.

Ningaloo Stars is based in Exmouth and travels to regional Western Australian communities during the summer months, bringing astronomy experiences to locations such as Esperance. Current dates, venues and availability should be checked through the operator's booking calendar.

Ningaloo Stars

Website: https://ningaloostars.com.au/
Email: paul@ningaloostars.com.au
Phone: 0437 881 905
Address: PO Box 1362, Exmouth WA 6707, Australia
Esperance sessions: Seasonal locations across the Esperance region, including Esperance Bird and Animal Park and Esperance Stonehenge.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Perth on Foot: The Laneways, Stories and Small Bars Behind the City Skyline

Two Feet & a Heartbeat

Perth is famous for blue skies, beautiful beaches, Kings Park and the sparkling Swan River.

But some of the city’s most interesting places are much smaller.

They are hidden down laneways, behind heritage facades, inside ornate arcades and between the modern towers of the CBD. They are the places where you begin to understand how Perth became the city it is today.

And one of the best ways to find them is on foot.

Look Beyond the Perth Skyline

At first glance, central Perth can appear polished and modern. Look more closely and different layers of the city begin to emerge.

London Court brings a touch of theatrical old-world architecture to the CBD. The State Buildings preserve some of Perth’s most significant heritage architecture while housing contemporary restaurants, bars and businesses. Nearby laneways reveal murals, sculptures and small bars that simply did not exist in the city a generation ago.

Walk a few more blocks and the story changes again.

Historic buildings sit beside new developments. Public art provides clues to people and events from the past. Streets that thousands of commuters hurry through each day reveal very different stories when you slow down and look.

This is a city that rewards curiosity.

A City Best Explored Slowly

Two Feet & a Heartbeat

Walking changes the way you experience a destination.

There is no bus window between you and the street. You notice architectural details, hear the city around you and have time to turn down a lane simply because something looks interesting.

Perth is particularly suited to this style of exploring. The central city is compact, many of its major landmarks are close together, and the walk between them is often as interesting as the destination itself.

That is the philosophy behind Two Feet & a Heartbeat, which has been guiding visitors and locals through Perth since 2007.

Its Perth’s Premier Pathways experience takes guests through the CBD’s arcades and laneways while connecting street art, architecture and contemporary Perth with stories about the people and events that shaped the city.

Rather than simply moving from attraction to attraction, the experience is about understanding what happened between them.

Perth Has Changed Dramatically

One of the most interesting things about exploring Perth today is how much the city has changed.

The rise of laneway bars, new public spaces, street art, restored heritage buildings and precincts such as Yagan Square has changed the way locals use the CBD.

That transformation is particularly obvious after dark.

Areas that were once largely deserted after office hours now contain small bars, restaurants and hidden venues tucked into places many visitors would walk straight past.

For travellers who like to understand a city through food and drink, Two Feet’s Eat Drink Walk Perth takes the same idea into the evening, combining local stories and laneways with stops at small bars where Perth locals actually spend their time.

It is less about ticking off attractions and more about experiencing the personality of the city.

The Stories Make the Place

Two Feet & a Heartbeat

Buildings are interesting. Stories make them memorable.

A good walking tour explains why a street looks the way it does, who occupied a building, why a piece of public art is there or how a seemingly ordinary corner fits into a much bigger story.

Perth has plenty of these stories.

Some are about boom times and ambitious developments. Others involve crime, politics, migration, entertainment, business or characters whose influence remains visible today.

Together they give visitors a much richer picture of Western Australia’s capital.

It is also why walking tours are not only for first-time visitors. Perth locals regularly discover streets, buildings and stories they have passed for years without noticing.

Take the Same Approach to Fremantle

The idea continues just down the railway line in Fremantle.

The historic port city is one of Western Australia’s best places to explore on foot, with convict history, maritime stories, limestone architecture, street art, markets, pubs and cafés all packed into a remarkably walkable centre.

Two Feet also guides walks through Fremantle, using its streets to connect the port city’s history with the creative culture visitors experience today.

Perth and Fremantle are very different places, but both demonstrate the same thing.

Two Feet & a Heartbeat

Sometimes the best way to understand a city is to slow down.

Walk the streets.

Look down the laneways.

And listen to the stories that have been there all along.

Two Feet & a Heartbeat

Guided walking experiences in Perth and Fremantle, Western Australia.
Website: https://www.twofeet.com.au/
Phone: 1800 459 388

Experiences include Perth history, art and laneways, Fremantle heritage, food and drink experiences, small-bar tours, true crime walks and private touring.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Cape to Cape MTB 2026: Four Days of Mountain Biking Through the Spectacular Margaret River Region

Cape to Cape MTB

The Margaret River Region in Western Australia is set to become a mountain biking mecca when Cape to Cape MTB returns from 15 to 18 October 2026.

Recognised as Australia’s largest and most popular four-day mountain bike stage race, Cape to Cape MTB combines challenging off-road riding with some of the most spectacular scenery in Western Australia’s South West.

From the dramatic coastline surrounding Cape Leeuwin and the forests and farmlands of the Margaret River Region to mountain bike parks, private trails, vineyards and bushland, the four-day event provides riders with an extraordinary way to experience one of Western Australia’s most celebrated destinations.

Cape to Cape MTB has grown from a small event that began in 2008 with fewer than 100 riders into a major international mountain biking event that regularly attracts hundreds of participants from Australia and overseas. The event has retained its connection with the spectacular South West landscapes that helped establish its reputation.

Four Days of Epic Mountain Biking

Cape to Cape MTB is designed as a four-day stage race, with each stage offering a different riding experience.

The event takes riders across a constantly changing landscape, incorporating coastal trails, national parks, forests, farmland, bushland, mountain bike parks and private property.

The 2026 event program also includes a prologue on 14 October, followed by four stages from 15 to 18 October. The 2026 course information remains subject to final updates, with the organisers confirming that courses can change until the race morning briefing.

For mountain bikers, this constantly changing terrain is part of the attraction. Each day presents new challenges, new scenery and another opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Western Australia's South West from the saddle.

From Cape Leeuwin to the Margaret River Region

Cape to Cape MTB

The race begins in spectacular surroundings near Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse at Augusta, where riders set off beneath the iconic lighthouse at the meeting point of the Southern and Indian Oceans.

The opening stage provides an immediate taste of what makes Cape to Cape MTB distinctive, combining challenging mountain biking with an extraordinary coastal setting.

The course then moves through the South West, with stages incorporating locations including Nannup and Margaret River before the event reaches its final stages.

The 2026 sponsor prospectus outlines a course of approximately 200 kilometres, with riders tackling roughly 50 kilometres each day. The course travels through a mixture of private trails, vineyards, coastline, national parks, forests, farmland and mountain bike parks.

A Course Designed for Adventure

Cape to Cape MTB is not simply about speed.

The event welcomes riders of different abilities and has developed a reputation for creating a challenging but accessible mountain bike experience.

The organisers describe the event as being suitable for everyone from elite racers through to recreational riders, with the philosophy that Cape to Cape is a ride as well as a race. Riders can participate individually or in pairs, while different age categories provide opportunities for competitors across a broad range of experience levels.

The 2026 race classifications include Junior, Seniors, Masters, Grand Masters, Great Grand Masters and Mega Masters categories, as well as Open and pairs categories.

There is also an eMTB category, providing another way for mountain biking enthusiasts to participate in the event.

The Margaret River Region on Two Wheels

Cape to Cape MTB

One of the great attractions of Cape to Cape MTB is that the event provides a very different way to experience the Margaret River Region.

The region is internationally recognised for its wineries, gourmet food, beaches, forests and natural landscapes, but it is also an established mountain biking destination.

There are nearly 80 kilometres of sanctioned and mapped single-track riding across several trail areas, with trails catering to beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. The main areas include the Wooditjup Trails near Margaret River, the Dunsborough Mountain Bike Park and Middle Earth near Cowaramup.

For riders arriving early or staying after the event, these trails provide an opportunity to extend a Cape to Cape MTB holiday with additional mountain biking adventures.

Margaret River Trails Add Another Dimension

The Wooditjup Trails, also known as The Pines or Compartment 10, offer approximately 40 kilometres of single-track riding.

Nearby Creek Trails provide another 15 kilometres, while Return of the Jedi adds approximately eight kilometres.

Dunsborough Mountain Bike Park, also known as the Meelup Trails, provides around 20 kilometres of single-track, while Middle Earth near Cowaramup offers approximately 20 kilometres of trails.

The variety means that riders can continue exploring long after the Cape to Cape MTB race has finished.

One of the local trails, Big Pine, has become particularly associated with Cape to Cape MTB. The trail is described by the Margaret River Region tourism organisation as fast, friendly and progressive, with sections regularly used in the event.

A Mountain Bike Holiday for the Whole Crew

Cape to Cape MTB

Cape to Cape MTB is designed with more than riders in mind.

The event encourages participants to bring friends and family, with time built into the program for support crews and visitors to experience the attractions of the Margaret River Region.

While riders tackle the stages, supporters can explore beaches, wineries, forests, food producers, galleries and local towns.

The region is renowned for its premium wines and gourmet food, while its beaches and forests provide countless opportunities for outdoor adventures.

This makes Cape to Cape MTB an appealing option for a group holiday where not everyone needs to be competing.

Wine, Food and Mountain Biking

One of the defining features of a Cape to Cape MTB holiday is the combination of serious mountain biking with the relaxed lifestyle of the Margaret River Region.

After a demanding day on the trails, riders can discover the region's celebrated wineries, breweries, restaurants and food producers.

The event itself incorporates local hospitality into the experience, with stage finishes providing opportunities for riders and supporters to relax and celebrate their achievements.

For visitors who want to extend their stay, the Margaret River Region offers an impressive choice of cellar doors, restaurants, breweries and food experiences.

The result is a destination where an active adventure holiday can easily be combined with Western Australia's famous food and wine culture.

More Than Just a Mountain Bike Race

Cape to Cape MTB

Cape to Cape MTB has also become an important event for the local community.

The race provides access to private trails that are not ordinarily available to the public, with local landowners opening their gates for participating riders.

The organisers emphasise the importance of respecting private property and ensuring that riders do not pre-ride event-only sections of the course. This helps protect the relationships that allow the event to continue using these unique trails.

The event also relies heavily on volunteers and local organisations, reinforcing the connection between Cape to Cape MTB and the communities through which it travels.

Couch to Cape Encourages New Riders

For those inspired by Cape to Cape MTB but wondering whether they are experienced enough to participate, the Couch to Cape program offers an encouraging pathway.

Introduced in 2025, the program supports people who are new to mountain biking or returning to cycling by providing equipment, training guidance and support.

For 2026, the program has expanded to three participants. Selected riders receive support including a Giant Stance mountain bike, cycling equipment, nutrition products, event merchandise, free entry and training guidance.

The initiative reflects the event's broader aim of making mountain biking more accessible while introducing new riders to the Cape to Cape experience.

Plan a Margaret River Adventure

Cape to Cape MTB

Visitors travelling to the Margaret River Region for Cape to Cape MTB can choose to base themselves in Margaret River, Prevelly or Gnarabup, or move accommodation as the race progresses.

The event organisers recommend Margaret River or Prevelly and Gnarabup as convenient central bases for riders who prefer to stay in one location throughout the event. Accommodation is not included with race entry, so visitors should make arrangements well in advance.

Beyond the race, travellers can explore the Cape to Cape coastline, visit wineries and cellar doors, enjoy the region's beaches, discover karri forests and sample local produce.

The Cape to Cape Track also offers a spectacular hiking experience along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste coastline, providing another opportunity to explore the landscape at a slower pace.

Cape to Cape MTB 2026

Cape to Cape MTB will take place across the Margaret River Region from 15 to 18 October 2026, with a prologue scheduled for 14 October.

For mountain bikers searching for an unforgettable Australian cycling adventure, the event offers a rare combination of challenging trails, spectacular scenery, local hospitality and the opportunity to explore one of Australia's great food and wine regions.

Whether competing for a podium position, riding with friends, taking on the event as a personal challenge or simply travelling with a cycling enthusiast, Cape to Cape MTB provides an exceptional reason to visit Western Australia's Margaret River Region in October.

The combination of mountain biking, coastline, forests, vineyards, food, wine and South West hospitality makes Cape to Cape MTB much more than a four-day race. It is an adventure that showcases the Margaret River Region from a completely different perspective.

Cape to Cape MTB

Website: www.capetocapemtb.com
Email: hello@capetocapemtb.com
Phone: +61 (08) 6285 8551

Cape to Cape MTB is held in the Margaret River Region of Western Australia, with event stages travelling through locations including Augusta, Nannup and Margaret River.

For the latest 2026 race information, course details, registration information and event updates, visit the official Cape to Cape MTB website.

Margaret River Region

Cape to Cape MTB

Website: www.margaretriver.com
Email: welcome@margaretriver.com
Phone: +61 8 9780 5911
Address: 100 Bussell Highway, Margaret River WA 6285

The Margaret River Region tourism organisation provides information about accommodation, attractions, food and wine, mountain biking, outdoor activities and events throughout the region.

For more information about Cape to Cape MTB 2026, including registration, accommodation and travel planning, visit the official event website and Margaret River Region tourism website before travelling.

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