Imagine driving your own camper through some of Western Australia's most breathtaking sceneries, discovering hidden gems, and experiencing the locals' hospitality firsthand. If you fancy a self-drive holiday like this – you're in the right place! Welcome to our guide to the ultimate road trip from Perth to Albany and back, perfect for travellers keen on adventure, stunning landscapes, and unique local experiences. Whether you are chasing vibrant city life in Perth, quiet leisurely beach days along the coast, sipping wine in the famed Margaret River, or spotting whales on their migration – this campervan itinerary is the perfect way to experience it all. Let’s dive in.
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First things first, head over to Mighty Perth and collect your camper, this will be home for the next week, so grab some supplies and make yourself acquainted. Start the day's adventures by visiting the Lotterywest Federation Walkway in Kings Park. Here, you'll traverse a 620 m-long elevated walkway, enveloped by a canopy of eucalyptus trees. The walkway offers magnificent views of the city, Swan River, and Darling Ranges.
Post-treetop adventure, head to the historic Fremantle Markets for a bite to eat. The market, housed in a Victorian-era building, has been an integral part of Fremantle for well over a century. Stroll through the vibrant stalls that sell everything from handcrafted jewellery to vintage clothing and locally-produced honey. Enjoy a cup of artisan coffee, or sample some of the mouth-watering street food on offer. If you still have some energy left before setting up camp for the night, venture to Elizabeth Quay for an enchanting evening. This popular spot in Perth's central business district is a hub for food, entertainment, and stunning views over the Swan River. With public art on display, events throughout the year, and endless affordable dining options, you'll find there's always something new to discover at Elizabeth Quay.
Stay at: Discovery Parks Swan Valley.
Make sure to take full advantage of your Campervan hire by stopping to see these sights at your own pace, stopping whenever you feel like it. However, we suggest getting an early start on your morning and heading straight down to Dolphin Quay. The Quay is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast (or brunch) while watching the dolphins that play in the marina's calm waters. After brunch, explore the specialty shops, and boutiques around the Quay and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Then, venture down to Silver Sands Beach, a stretch of silvery sand that perfectly contrasts the waters of the Indian Ocean. From here, take a calming walk through the tranquil scenery of the Creery Wetland Nature Reserve. Stroll along the 3km of well-kept boardwalks while keeping your eyes peeled for some of the 22 different species of migratory shorebirds that call the wetlands home during the southern summers. As the day nears its end, relax and enjoy the variety of craft beers at the Three Rivers Brewing Company. Three Rivers conform to the strict German beer purity law: the Reinheitsgbot. This means that they use no additives, preservatives, colours or cheap sugars, and instead, you can enjoy only the simplicity of their classic water, malt, hops and yeast recipe.
Stay at: Mandurah Caravan and Tourist Park.
Margaret River, a celebrated wine region, is synonymous with the good life. It boasts world-class vineyards, captivating natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and a vibrant food scene.
Firstly, begin the day with a visit to the lively Margaret River Farmers Market. The market, held every Saturday from 7:30 am until 11:30 am, is a jewel of fresh, locally-sourced produce, making it an essential stopover to stock up your camper's fridge. After refilling your stores, drive a little ways past Margaret River and immerse yourself in the magical realm of Lake Cave. Adorned with crystal formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, including the famous “suspended table”, mirrored in its tranquil lake, is bound to leave you in awe. From the cave's mystical calm, head to the sun-kissed sands of Gnarabup Beach and enjoy lunch at the White Elephant Beach Cafe. With the outer reef breaking the force of the swell, the calm beach can often feel like the world’s largest swimming pool.
After finding your calm at Gnarabup Beach, sample some of the region's finest brews at the Margaret River Brewhouse. This local favourite offers an array of craft beers, adding a warm, rustic ambience to your beer-tasting experience, with plenty of options for lunch or dinner, all sporting fresh, locally sourced ingredients. If you're more of a wine drinker, there are over 200 local vineyards to sample, making it super easy to spend another day exploring the vineyards in the Margaret River region.
With three immense chambers, a fully guided tour will take just over one hour, as you walk among the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites that have taken thousands of years to form.
After Jewel Cave, the next stop is at the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. As the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia, it also marks the meeting point of the two oceans and offers panoramic views of the surrounding waters. Some of the top things to do here include:
Then, head back into town and try your luck at catching your own dinner at Skippy Rock, an excellent fishing and picnic spot overlooking the ocean. As the day fades, make your way to Flinders Bay, a perfect place for a peaceful stroll along the beach while watching the sunset. Use the supplied barbeques, to cook up your catch, or if you weren't so lucky, head to The OG Cafe & Takeaway for some local fish and chips. If you're there from May to December, watch from the jetty as whales on their annual migration breach and play in the calm bay.
Stay at: Flinders Bay Holiday Park.
Take some time to explore the Valley of the Giants, where you can walk amongst the giant Tingle Trees. After arriving in Albany, head on down to Emu Point. Emu Point is a long promontory, completely protected from the ocean swell, making it an ideal spot for relaxed swimming, fishing, boating or even some kite surfing if there is a bit of wind. Then, head down to the Squid Shack for local fish and chips while enjoying the calm waters. Middleton Beach, with its white sand, clear waters, and ocean swell, offers a range of watersports and great ocean swimming. With five kilometres of brilliant white sand, there is plenty of space to find your own area to stretch out and kick back.
If you are looking for a little slice of history, take a visit to the National Anzac Centre for an immersive step back in time with the interactive exhibits showcasing Australia's involvement in World War I. Afterwards, stroll through the Albany Heritage Park, where you can meander through native bushland to the Apex lookout giving an incredible view over King George Sound, all while observing the memorials that line the walk.
Stay at: Acclaim Albany Holiday Park.
When you make it to Dunsborough, make sure to visit:
Stay at: Southern Stars Holiday Park Dunsborough.
Another great stop on the drive back up is the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre. Here you can wade out into the water with the centre's volunteers and see the local dolphins up close and personal. After arriving in Perth, take some time to explore a few other fun and free things to do in Perth, like walking around the city, exploring the street art, or just relaxing on Cottesloe Beach. Finally, drop your camper back at the Mighty Perth branch to round off your epic seven-day road trip from Perth to Albany.
This epic seven-day Perth to Albany road trip guarantees an unforgettable adventure through Western Australia's unparalleled beauty – from its thriving cityscapes to pristine beaches and world-class vineyards. So why wait? Hire a campervan from Mighty Campers today and kick-start your ultimate Australian adventure!
Australian Itineraries