3 Day Albany, Margaret River and the South West

Travel from Perth to the South West region, explore breathtaking beaches, towering forests, dramatic cliffs with gentle swells and the lure of delicious wine and local produce.

ALBANY, MARGARET RIVER AND THE SOUTH WEST

TOUR CODE: 3SW

HIGHLIGHTS
:: KARRI FOREST
:: BUSSELTON JETTI
:: VALLEY OF THE GIANTS
:: ALBANY COASTLINE

ITINERARY

DAY 1 :: PERTH TO PEMBERTON
Departing Perth early we make our way south down the coast road via Mandurah and the Dawesville Cut, a man made canal between the Indian Ocean and the Peel Inlet. Further south we make our first stop at the Dolphin Discovery Centre on Koombana Bay in Bunbury. Here we have time to stretch our legs and learn all about the dolphins that make this area their home. If we are lucky the dolphins will make one of their frequent visits to the beach. We then journey down through the majestic Ludlow Tuart Forest, the largest remaining Tuart forest in the world, and on to our next destination, the Busselton Jetty. Here we take time to marvel at the historic jetty and take in sweeping views of Geographe Bay. Back on the bus and onto Yallingup for lunch and a tour of Ngilgi Cave. After lunch we make a short stop at Canal Rocks before making our way south along Caves Road where we have the chance to stop and sample some wine at one of the many wineries that have put Margaret River on the map. Next stop is the famous surf break of Margaret River (Prevelly Park) before going into Margaret River itself for a look around. The first day is drawing to a close so we make our way to our first nights accommodation at Pemberton Forest Stay cottages. (LD)

DAY 2 :: PEMBERTON TO ALBANY
We wake this morning to the sights and sounds of the south west. After breakfast we make our way further

south through the Karri forest to the largest challenge of the tour, the 60 metre plus climb to the top of the Bicentennial Tree. The Bicentennial Tree is the highest tree top lookout in the world. We need a short break to recover from the breathtaking views before we depart for our next destination, The Valley of the Giants and the Tree Top Walk. Here we have the opportunity to take a walk through the canopy of the ancient Tingle forest, 40 meters above the forest floor. It's not long before we are back on the bus making our way towards William Bay National Park. We take time out here to view the large granite formations known as Elephant Rocks and to take a dip in the clear waters of Greens Pool. The sun is high in the sky and it is time to head east taking a short break in Denmark before we finish the day by checking out some of the south's natural coastal phenomena The Blow Holes, The Natural Bridge and the awe inspiring The Gap. A long day has ended and we retire in Albany for our last night together. (BLD)

DAY 3 :: ALBANY TO PERTH
We start the morning with a drive to the top of Mt Clarence, which will give us spectacular views of King George Sound, the outer islands and the Albany township. From here we stop at Middleton Beach with the chance to walk along the heritage boardwalk, have a coffee in the cafe or just walk along the beach. Mid morning we start our journey north on the last leg of the tour. En-route back to Perth we stop to climb Castle Rock in the Porongurup Ranges and take in the breath taking views of the surrounding countryside and the Stirling Ranges. All too quickly it is time to make our way through the wheat and sheep farming district of the great southern and back to Perth. (BL)

BRING
Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, warm/waterproof clothing (even in summer), water bottle, swimming gear, insect repellent, camera & film, binoculars.

3 DAYS
Adult $425 ($AUD) Child $425 ($AUD) ACCOMMODATION UPGRADE Dorm - Twin/Double $75 pp Dorm - Single $100 pp DEPARTS Perth 7:00am - 1 April 2008 to 31 March 2009 Perth 7.20am April: Mon Thu May - Oct: Mon Nov - Mar: Mon Thu Sat MAX PEOPLE - 24 Valid till 31 March 2009.
		Hikes up to 5kms per day (basic fitness required).

		Maximum 24 front facing seats, air-conditioned vehicle

		Dorm or Twin/Double rooms with shared facilities
Safaris must be reconfirmed by 4.00pm the day before travel. Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted due to seasonal & extreme weather conditions, Traditional Owner and national park requirements. Luggage limit of 15 kg applies - backpack or soft bag.