Heading down to the Ferguson Valley, also known as the Fergie Valley, in the south west is the perfect way to spend your weekend away from Perth. Wander amongst beloved gnomes, enjoy the Wellington National Park, and explore famous dams and lakes. No matter who you are, the Ferguson Valley has something for absolutely everyone.
There are plenty of craft breweries, boutique wineries, foodie destinations, and tourist hotspots for you to wander around. The Ferguson Valley is a picturesque region full of lovely surroundings, gorgeous streams, winding roads, and views of healthy cattle grazing on the green rolling hills.
The views in the Ferguson Valley never get old. Keep reading to find out more about the beautiful Ferguson Valley and some of the top things you should do while you’re there! This is our awesome guide to the Ferguson Valley.
Visiting the Ferguson Valley in WA
Place a Gnome at Gnomesville
The popularity of Gnomesville cannot be undermined. This community-driven tourist attraction is a quirky and fun place to visit in the region. It is an absolute must-do as the visit is simply mystical.
Hidden in-between thousands of gnomes and thick, enchanting bushland, this tourist hotspot has been kicking since way back in the 1990s. It all began when a resident placed just one garden gnome in the hollow of a tree. Since then, it has grown as a home to over 10,000 gnomes.
Now, people from all over come to place their very own gnomes here. Some have signs, others are hand-painted, and some are even made from scratch. There is no exaggerating happening when we say that people travel from all over the world to come here just to visit or place a gnome.
Visit the Wellington National Park
The gorgeous and scenic Wellington National Park spreads across over 17,000 hectares and consists of stunning Marri forests, Jarrah forests, and Blackbutt Forests. You can visit the stunning Collie River that runs through it and is ideal for canoeing, swimming, and even fishing. However, you need to be warned that the water here is almost always freezing.
It could be refreshing during the sweltering heat, but we have to warn you just in case. The bush walks in this national park are so enchanting, especially during the wildflower season when 300 different species are flowering. While you’re walking, keep an eye out for over 70 different species of birds including the endangered and gorgeous Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo.
If you’re not up for a walk, you can check out the mountain bike trails for mountain bikers that weave through the thick forest. You should also pay a visit to The King Jarrah Tree in this national park. The King Jarrah is a majestic tree that is said to be between 300 and 500 years old and is 36 metres tall. It is one of Wa’s oldest trees!
There is a wooden boardwalk leading up to the tree that also spreads around the base of it. This allows visitors to view the tree and protect the roots at the same time. The area around it features an abundance of small birds and animals.
If you are hoping to see some little critters, wander the forest paths in the early morning when the scarlet robin, fairy-wren, inland thornbill, grey fantail, and golden whistler are out and about. Make sure you check out the famous grizzly trail while you’re in the area.
Check Out the Wellington Dam Mural and Collie Mural Trail
If you’re looking to set off on a serious adventure, you have to check out the massive Wellington Dam Mural and the Collie Mural Trail. The Wellington Dam Mural has gained significant popularity since its inception. Now, you can still visit the Dam Mural, but you will likely be behind a huge line of cars!
People are always lining up to witness the raw beauty of this massive art piece. Located two hours south of Perth, both the Wellington Dam Mural and the Collie Mural Trail allow visitors an insight into Collie and all it has to offer past, present, and future. The dam wall was constructed back in 1932 and has since become home to the massive mural.
Painted by Guido van Helton, this 8,000 sq metre mega-mural has now been named as the largest dam mural in the world. The Colie Mural trail on the other hand is a 35km long collection of stunning and varied artwork painted by various artworks. In this collection, you will find over 40 different artworks.
There are literally paintings everywhere! Find out more about the Wellington Dam Murals and the Collie Mural Trail locations here!
Check Out the Dardanup Area
Dardanup Heritage Park has a massive collection of historic agricultural and industrial machinery. This includes machinery, cars, trucks, and even household items. In fact, it is one of Australia’s finest collections. You can also head out on the 2.5km Dardanup Heritage Trail which encompasses 15 heritage sites and includes the first Catholic Church in Western Australia.
Dardanup actually has a lot on offer. You can also check out the Dardanup Bakery, Dardanup Art Spectacular and Trail, and so much more in the historic town of Dardanup. While you’re here, make sure you check out crooked brook.
Visit Some Wineries
Wineries are one of the most popular destinations when people visit the Ferguson Valley. That is why we had to add these some of ways finest destinations to the list. After all, nothing says “I’m down south” more than a wine tasting paired with a delicious cheese platter. The bottom line is that a wine tasting is a must.
The Ferguson Valley is home to 20 vineyards and wineries producing awesome small-batch wines. One of the most popular is St Aidan Wines on Ferguson road which is a family owned and operated winery in the very heart of the Geographe Wine Region. They offer a wide range of varieties including Cabernet, Chardonnay, Semillon, Muscat, Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec, Muscat, Merlot, Tempranillo, and even Fiano!
You should also consider visiting Green Door Wines. It is a very small boutique winery that boasts insane views from the cellar door. The green door, which the winery is famous for, was imported all the way from Morocco.
The Moorish theme of the winery matches the Spanish/European characteristics of the wines. While there is a charge of $3 per person, you can redeem this on any wine purchase. Willow Bridge Estate is also in the area.
This impressive winery has a 5 red star James Halliday award. They continue to produce amazing wines that are very cost-effective for the price. The views from the cellar door are absolutely insane.
You won’t want to miss this destination. Another hotspot to visit is the Ferguson Falls Winery situated in an absolutely stunning lunch spot. Here, not only can you enjoy some top-quality wine, but you can also enjoy award winning stone-baked American and Italian gourmet pizzas.
The picturesque scenery makes it just that much better. Last, but certainly not least, you should consider visiting Hackersley Estate. Awarded 5-star winery status in 2013 by James Halliday, it now boasts a gold plate awarded restaurant to go alongside the quality wines sold and served here.
You must visit these renowned wineries next time you’re doing a day trip of heading off on a weekend getaway. The more than a dozen boutique wineries in the area make it well-worth the trip.
Check Out Some Breweries
Alongside wineries, breweries are one of the top reasons that people tend to visit the Ferguson Valley. If you don’t enjoy wine, you may consider checking out a craft brewery in the region. The two craft breweries below are super trendy and close to each other.
The top two are the Bush Shack Brewery and the Wild Bull Brewery. The Wild Bull Brewery is a family-friendly craft brewery that serves up some delicious food alongside quality beer. The view is absolutely insane as you overlook rolling hills and vineyards.
However, around lunch, it can get super busy, so make sure you book ahead to ensure you get a spot. This brewery is also dog-friendly which means that you can take your canine companion with you! The second brewery is the Bush Shack Brewery, formerly known as the Moody Cow Brewery.
It books out very fast, so make sure you book in advance if you want to secure a table. You can sample all of the bears that are absolutely incredible. However, make sure you bring a designated driver as the percentage is quite high.
Dogs are allowed on the deck. This means that you can dine with your canine companion while enjoying and taking in the relaxed atmosphere. The grass area is the perfect place where kids can run.
Visit Bunbury
The Ferguson Valley is only 15 minutes east of Bunbury. Bunbury has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. You should head to the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre first and try to scope out some bottlenose dolphins that frequently visit the Koombana Bay area. You can even visit the Interpretive Centre or go on a dolphin cruise to get up and close with the local dolphin residents.
While you’re there, make sure you check out the newly developed foreshore. There are plenty of eateries nearby for you to enjoy as well. You can easily find accommodation options in Bunbury too.
Visit Collie
Collie is a small tourist town, but there is so much on offer here. From Bunbury, it only takes around 35 minutes to get to Collie. The drive there is full of rolling hills and picturesque views. If you visit on a warm day, you need to check out either Black Diamond or Stockton Lake to go swimming.
If it is a cold day, you should consider just driving past for a look. You can also go paddle-boarding, canoeing, and even have a picnic when you’re done. If you want to sit down, just make sure you bring a few chairs as there is no glass nearby to sit on. Collie is also a fun area of trails just south of Perth.
If you’re not keen on the swimming holes, you may like the Collie Art Gallery instead.
Visit Donnybrook
Only 20 minutes from the Ferguson Valley, Donnybrook is a lovely little town. It is also a good option if you’re travelling with young ones. The Apple Fun Park is very popular as it is Australia’s biggest free park with equipment to play on for all ages.
If you’re an avid hiker, there are plenty of trails to check out near Donnybrook too. Donnybrook is also home to a few fab restaurants.
Now that you’ve seen this guide to the picturesque Ferguson Valley, you will know exactly where to go! Have you been to any of the places listed above? Let us know about your experience in the comments below!
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