Guide to Kalamunda and the Bickley Valley

A trip “up the hill” is perfect any time of year. Winter brings cosy wineries with log fires and Lesmurdie Falls is spectacular. Spring brings wildflowers to the bushland, and summer nights in Kalamunda town can be filled with aromas from the Night Markets. An autumn drive through the Bickley Valley is lovely with the oranges and reds of falling orchard leaves. Be sure to visit Kalamunda and the Bickley Valley in the wonderful Perth Hills soon. There’s lots to see and do.

Things to do in Kalamunda and the Bickley Valley

I love the village feel of Kalamunda. The small town is full of cafes, gift shops, second hand bookshops and more. Stroll around the shops and visit the Zig Zag Cultural centre. This is where the information centre is located – handy if you’re not familiar with the area. Read the Seniorocity review on the Zig Zag Cutural Centre here.

Here there’s also an art gallery and the Kalamunda History Village – the biggest open air museum of its kind in WA.

The spectacular Lesmurdie Falls, in Mundy Regional Park, is a short drive from Kalamunda. It is a popular spot to visit in late winter, when the waterfall is in full flow and the wildflowers are blooming. It’s a great spot for an easy bushwalk, as it’s only 800m to the escarpment from the carpark along a relatively easy gravel path. Enjoy the city view from the lookout platforms. Read the Seniorocity review on Lesmurdie Falls here.

If you prefer a more challenging bushwalk, the epic Bibbulmun Track begins in Kalamunda and you can walk part of this through the bush to Mundaring Weir. Read the Seniorocity review on the Bibbulmun Track here.

The Zig Zag (Currently closed until November 2020) was originally a route for steam trains to haul timber from the hills to Midland. The scenic road is right on the edge of the escarpment, making for great views, tight corners and lots of wildflowers in early spring! Read the Seniorocity review on the Zig Zag scenic drive here.

Kalamunda Markets

The market town has a whopping three markets! There’s the popular weekly Farmers Market, held each Sunday morning. Take an esky and stock up on fresh produce from the Bickley Valley. The monthly Artisan Market is held on the first Saturday of each month and has handmade arts and crafts for sale. Read the Seniorocity review on the farmers market here.

In summer, the bustling Night Markets are held the third Friday of each month. Haynes Street is transformed into a pedestrian area full of food trucks and tasty aromas. Read the Seniorocity review on the night markets here.

Cafes and Restaurants in Kalamunda

Best for Coffee and Cake – Kalamunda has a big choice of cafes. Esther Café helps women in crisis, as well as serving up a great cuppa. Elevated Grounds is very dog friendly.

Best for brunch and lunch – Jack & Jill and Mason & Bird are both great spots for a delicious brunch.

Best for dinner – Embers, in nearby Gooseberry Hill is a Perth Hills favourite. The Vault is a tasty Italian spot for a more substantial meal.

Bickley Valley Wineries, Cideries and More

The Bickley Valley with its winding roads, rolling hills, vineyards and orchards, is a beautiful spot for a drive. There’s plenty of places to stop for a wine tasting or a lazy lunch. Core Cider House is very popular spot. If you have grandkids in tow, they’ll love the fantastic playground, and tractor. It’s a lovely spot to sit amongst the apple trees and enjoy some nibbles with a glass of CORE cider. Read the Seniorocity review on Core Cider House here.

La Fattoria offers a different dining experience. “Nonnas table” must be pre-booked and has the warm, homely feel of visiting Nonna’s house for an authentic Italian feast. Their delicious platters are available without a booking and best enjoyed picnic style on the lawn. Read the Seniorocity review on La Fattoria here.

There’s a lot to do at Masonmill. From a challenging mini golf course, to absolutely beautiful gardens (particularly in Rose blooming season), there’s a great kids playground too. Read the Seniorocity review on Masonmill here.

Mistelle is a little bit of France in the Perth Hills. The delicious bistro has amazing vineyard views from their veranda, exquisite food and Hainault wines to match. Read the Seniorocity review on Mistelle here.

Due Jolly Winery is a rustic spot which has platters, heaped with tasty morsels and $5 glasses of wine! Open on weekends, it can get busy, so it’s best to call to book a platter. Under the cellar door you’ll also find a quaint antique and curios shop. Read the Seniorocity review on Due Jolly Winery here.

Packing Shed at Lawnbrook Estate is a cosy café and winery cellar door in one. Read the Seniorocity review on the Packing Shed here.

Be sure to head to the Kalamunda and Bickley Valley area of the Perth Hills for a delicious day out amongst the gumtrees!

Have we missed your favourite Kalamunda or Bickley Valley spot? Let us know in the comments below!

About the Author
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About Stella B

Stella is loving retirement! Besides her loves of gardening, reading and painting, she adores spending time with her family and being out and about in Perth. Living in the Perth Hills, her time is often spent brunching with her husband at one of Kalamunda’s many cafes or enjoying a food platter over a glass of wine at a Bickley Valley winery.