Perth – Esperance via The Horsepower Highway

Kobeelya House

Get some miles in from the get-go with your first leg from Perth to Katanning – if you start nice and early, you can make it in time for an A-grade brunch and gorgeous wool products at the Williams Woolshed. From there take in the historic town’s technicolour street art, part of the Public Silo Trail. You won’t be able to miss two other grand buildings in town: the Kobeeyla House and the Premier Mill Hotel. The imposing 17-bedroom Kobeeyla was built in 1902, and was the first home in WA to be connected to electricity. The Premier Mill Hotel has become one of WA’s foremost boutique hotels – you can treat yourself to a luxe stay for your first night on the road, or just stop by the cellar for a drink at the Cordial Bar.

The Horsepower Highway

Just outside of Katanning you’ll see the start of a really unique part of WA that’s not as talked about as some of the more mainstream journeys – The Horsepower Highway. Set along the shadows of the Stirling Ranges, The Horsepower Highway is a trail that follows Broomehill-Gnowangerup Rd, itself littered with vintage tractors each telling stories of the region’s agricultural history. Some are on display in their original state, while others have been restored in a way that honours the local community from which they come. It’s a really fun, educational way to continue your journey south, with a handy interactive map available for you to track your trip. You can also get more info via the The Horsepower Highway Facebook Page.

Stirling Range National Park

As you follow the tractors, you’ll find yourself at the Stirling Range National Park: home of stunning landscapes and the highest point in the South West, Bluff Knoll. Camp up at one of the private campgrounds to the north of the park, or at Moingup Springs within the park and explore the surrounding areas with your 4WD. If you’re really feeling the need for adventure, you can summit the Bluff – just make sure you’re prepared.

Campgrounds: Mt. Trio Bush Camp & Caravan Parks or Moingup Springs campground

As if Stirling Range National Park wasn’t impressive enough, you’ll continue on through the picturesque roads to UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve Fitzgerald River National Park. Reaching all the way to the coast, it’s host to a huge, impressive variety of landscapes and flora. You can explore much of the park on four wheels, with plenty of 4WD-only tracks that you’ll be able to access during dry weather.

Campgrounds:Hamersley Inlet Campground or St. Mary Inlet campground

Ravensthorpe Public Silo Art

Squeeze in a visit to the blow holes at Hopetoun and try and spot a few whales before it’s onwards to Ravensthorpe. A must visit? Check out the mammoth, 25 metre tall silos that feature a set of banksia murals by Freo-based artist Amok Island.

Campgrounds: Four Mile Campground or Hopetoun Beachside Caravan Park

Camping with Kangaroo at Esperance

Perhaps one of the world’s most beautiful roads, you absolutely have to jump onto the 40km Great Ocean Drive: an epic, breathtaking loop that stops by countless stunning beaches. Drive right onto the beach at Cape Le Grand National Park, climb to the top of Frenchman’s Peak, and hop your way right on over to the resident kangaroos in Lucky Bay – truly an iconic Australian moment. Further east, you’ll find Wharton Beach: one of WA’s most pristine, breathtakingly beautiful beaches.

Campgrounds: Lucky Bay Campground or RAC Esperance Holiday Park

Wave Rock, Hyden

Head back inland towards Hyden, where you’ll be witness to the magic of Wave Rock, and Mulka’s Cave – two truly unique geological formations. Plus, the area is also where you’ll find Lake Magic: a super salty lake with some pretty snazzy views.

Campgrounds: Wave Rock Caravan Park or Tressie’s Museum Caravan Park

Kokerbin Rock ©Martha Weruing

A must-visit on the home stretch is Kokerbin Rock, a 122 metre high monolith and the third largest in Australia, with some amazing views at the top. And finally it’s a quick layover in York – one of our favourite day trips from the city, it’s filled with stunning heritage-listed buildings and there are countless walking trails for every ability that surround the town, including along the glorious Avon River.

That’s how you enjoy a short break down south! If you interested in shorter itinerary to explore the South West Edge, check out our Perth to Albany via The Horsepower Highway itinerary.