WIDE-EYED EXPLORATIONS AWAY FROM THE SCREEN
Older children can be hard to impress, but offer them star-filled skies, ancient caves and sand dunes to surf – and suddenly, their screens will seem much less appealing.
Drive 45 minutes south from Busselton to Margaret River/Wooditjbilyup, a region famous not only for its world-class wineries but also for its incredible caves, local markets and artisanal produce. Start at the Margaret River Farmers Market and sample fresh local cheese, olives and bread. Don’t miss out on the Margaret River Chocolate Company, which offers some of the country’s best sweets. Grown-ups can enjoy a wine tasting at Leeuwin Estate. The area also offers a massive subterranean world to explore. Visit the magical Mammoth Cave, a natural time capsule with ancient fossils embedded in its walls, including those of prehistoric sharks.
From there, make an inland detour eastward to the Golden Outback to visit one of Western Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks – Wave Rock/Katter Kich, near the town of Hyden. Standing at 15m high and 100m long, this striking granite formation curls like a crashing ocean wave frozen in time. Black streaks across its ochre face enhance the illusion, making it a must-stop for budding photographers and nature lovers alike. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Hippo’s Yawn, a rock formation that amusingly resembles a yawning hippopotamus – always a hit with younger travellers. After a day of inland exploration, head back north to Perth, which is roughly a three-hour drive away.
