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Swan Valley Things To Do: A Local’s Complete Guide

Welcome to Swan Valley, Perth’s premier food, wine, and outdoor adventure destination. Nestled among the rolling hills and vineyards, the Swan Valley offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.

From sipping on award-winning wines to sampling delicious artisanal chocolates and cheeses, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, the Swan Valley has plenty of things to do to keep you entertained.

In this post, we will provide a complete guide to the top things to do in Swan Valley in 2023, as recommended by locals .

🤩 To Book Tours Direct with the Tour Operators , click the links in the box below

Swan Valley Wineries & Wine Tasting

Swan Valley is famous for its award-winning wineries, breweries, and distilleries. It is Western Australia’s oldest wine-growing region and is a haven for wine connoisseurs, with the Mediterranean-style climate providing ideal growing conditions.

You get an authentic experience at the cellar doors as most Swan Valley vineyards are family-owned and run. Sparkling, Verdelho, Chenin Blanc, Petit Verdot, Shiraz, and Fortified wines are the most popular wines.

A few of our favourite Swan Valley wineries include:

• Sandalford Wines
• Lamont’s Swan Valley
• Sittella Winery
• Olive Farm Wines
• Mandoon Estate

Tips for your wine tasting in the Swan Valley:

• Drinking age is 18
• Dress smart-casual, especially for the restaurants
• Take plenty of water and sunscreen
• Don’t drink and drive!

Swan Valley Winery Tours

The best way to experience the wineries is on a Swan Valley tour (unless you have a designated driver). There are many tours to choose from, including half-day and full-days. Some tours include lunch and visiting the Margaret River Chocolate Factory, like this Full-Day Winery Experience with Lunch from Perth .

Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ over 580 reviews ( best seller )

A cruise up the calm Swan River from Elizabeth Quay to the fertile Swan Valley is beautiful and includes morning tea, wine tastings, and cheese and biscuits on board. Read more about the inclusions of this Captain Cook cruise here .

Swan Valley Breweries, Cideries, and Distilleries

If you prefer beer or spirits to wine, Swan Valley has you covered with numerous craft breweries and distilleries.

Pop into one (or more) of the following breweries/cideries to try craft beer and/or cider:

• Bailey brewing Co
• Duckstein Brewery
• Elmar’s in the Valley
• Homestead Brewery at Mandoon
• Iron back Tavern & Cidery
• Mash Brewing
• Swan Valley Brewery
• TXOKO Brewing

Please note that Feral Brewery is now closed.

View the Cider & Ale Trail map here .

Visit one of these distilleries to taste handcrafted spirits, including gin, vodka, brandy, limoncello, and rum:

• Great Northern Distillery
• Harris Organic Wine & Spirits
• Old Young’s Distillery
• Sin Gin Distillery
• Swan Valley Gin Company

See the Distillery Trail map here .

Swan Valley Things To Do

If you’re looking for activities in the Swan Valley, there are many things to choose from. You can explore the area’s natural beauty by hiking or bike trails, visit a winery or brewery, or relax with a picnic in one of the many scenic spots. Whatever you choose to do, enjoy the peace and serenity this wonderful region offers.

Hire a Boat

Looking for something to do that’s a little different? Hire a boat from Nauti Picnics for a jaunt up or down the river.

Bring your picnic on the water, seats for 8 people with room for an esky and a large Bimini roof to protect you from the Australian sun. No boat license is needed to operate Nauti’s electric, user-friendly boat.

Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm

Rating: 4/5 ⭐️ over 150 reviews

The Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm was a regular choice of our daughters when looking for things to do in the Swan Valley. It’s lovely to see your child’s face light up when they get up close to all the cuddly farm animals.

There are always plenty of animals to pat, including alpacas, ponies, miniature horses, kangaroos, goats, lambs, sheep, pigs, bunnies, chicks, and lots of different birds.

Bottle feeding takes place twice a day at 10:30 am and 3 pm, but check directly in case of any changes.

As of April 2023, the cost was A$20 an adult, A$15 for 2-15 year olds and concessions, and under 2’s free. The entry includes a tractor ride, bottle and bucket feeding, bouncy castle, and Merry-Go-Round. There’s also a playground and picnic/bbq facilities.

Pathways around the farm are wheelchair and pram friendly.

Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm is open daily from 9:30 am to 4 pm, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Please note that we haven’t been for a few years, but this animal attraction still receives good reviews. However, if you don’t agree with animals in captivity, I would leave this out of your itinerary as some animals are caged.

128 John St, Henley Brook

Swan Valley Chocolate Factory

The Swan Valley has two chocolate experiences – the Margaret River Chocolate Company and Whistler’s Chocolate Company, both owned by Western Australians.

Visit the Margaret River Chocolate Company for free tastings and look through the large viewing window to see the products being made. The Chocolate Café at Swan Valley is popular with outdoor and indoor seating and a variety of food on offer. The café is open for breakfast and lunch with a range of cakes, desserts, chocolate fondues, drinks, and chocolate treats all day.

Margaret River Providore is next door, selling a range of preserves, chutneys, olive oils, wines, and chocolate liqueur.

Entry is free and open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except on Christmas Day.

5123 West Swan Road, West Swan

Whistler’s is Western Australia’s oldest chocolate factory, established in 1972 and family-owned. Their showroom offers a small selection of free samples with a large choice of handmade chocolates to purchase. The café has an enclosed garden area for kids to play while you enjoy a WA roasted coffee and cake.

This Swan Valley attraction is open most days from 9 am to 5 pm, but the café closes at 4 pm (the kitchen closes at 3 pm).

Entry is free.

506 Great Northern Highway, Middle Swan

Yahava KoffeeWorks

Yahava purchases the best arabica coffee beans from around the world and roasts them here in Western Australia. They also sell a great range of teas, elixirs and essences, hand-made chocolates, and coffee brewing equipment.

As soon as you enter Yahava KoffeeWorks , you can smell the incredible aroma of the coffee beans roasting. Roasters explain how the beans are roasted to produce a dark golden colour and delicious aroma.

For a true KoffeeWorks experience, you must visit the Tasting Bench, where you will start your coffee adventure around the world, tasting and discussing the coffee and learning as you go. There are also teas, elixirs, essences, chocolates, and frappes to try.

You can purchase the coffee and tea you have tasted as well as a large range of coffee-making equipment, such as stove tops, filters, pour-overs, french press, and cold drips.

Visit for breakfast, lunch, or morning or afternoon teas for a wonderful selection of hot and cold foods at Kafe. 4752 West Swan Rd, West Swan

Supa Golf is a fun activity for a large group and involves a modified game with oversized clubheads and balls. This makes it much easier to play than a normal game of golf and is suitable for most ages and skill levels.

This fun attraction is open from 10 am Monday to Friday with the last tee off at 12:30 pm and from 8 am on weekends and public holidays with the last tee off at 1 pm.

The cost of a 9-hole game is A$20 per adult, A$15 for seniors and children 5-14, and A$8.50 for 4 and under.

10250 West Swan Rd, Swan Val l ey

Cycle Trails

Cycle trails in the Swan Valley offer visitors an opportunity to explore the region by bike. These trails wind their way past stalls selling fresh produce, wineries, art galleries, attractions, and parks. Some of the trails are short and easy, while others are more challenging.

Download a copy of the cycle trails map here .

Swan Settlers Market

Visit these markets to discover stalls offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, treats, fashion, and accessories. Not only that but you will find an international food court, a gin distillery and cellar door, treats and confectionery, preserves, chutneys, cheese, and coffee and cake.

The Swan Settlers Market has an interesting history. The area was part of the soldier resettlement after World War I when they were given plots of land to grow grapes and apricots that were packed inside this huge shed, built in 1919 due to the proximity to the East-West railway line. But unfortunately, the soldiers weren’t the best growers. Therefore the land was taken over by Yugoslavian men who wandered over from the Goldfields and eventually took over the Swan Settlers Co-Operative. This was the largest population of Yugoslavians outside of Europe, so the Yugoslavian King Peter II visited the Co-Op around the late 1930s.

The indoor air-conditioned markets are perfect for visiting year-round and make a good option when looking for things to do in the Swan Valley when it’s raining.

Swan Settlers Market is open Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm and Fridays from 12 pm to 8.30 pm.

124 Lennard Street, Herne Hill

Caversham Wildlife Park & Whiteman Park

Whiteman Park is a fantastic place to take children and features many attractions, including Caversham Wildlife Park, bushwalking trails, tram and train rides, playgrounds, sports facilities, and museums.

The three bushwalking trails (Werillyiup, Goo Loorto and Wunanga) encompass Horse Swamp, Bennett Brook, and banksia woodland. The children’s forest allows kids to learn about the importance and beauty of Western Australia’s native bushland and are encouraged to explore and discover the forest. Whiteman Park has produced activity sheets to help you and your child explore the beauty of nature here.

The Perth Electric Tramway Society operates a genuine heritage electric tram between Mussel Pool and the Village at half-hourly intervals (during weekends, public, and school holidays, the running times are extended.) However, tram rides do not operate on higher fire danger days.

The Bennett Brook Railway offers scenic trips around the bushland loop, leaving from the Village Junction Station as well as Mussel Pool on weekends and public holidays. Steam trains operate from June to August, with the remaining months by diesel. However, trains do not run on higher fire danger days. Prices are A$10 an adult, A$8 seniors, A$5 for children aged 4 to 14, and A$26 for a family (2A + 2C).

For more information, see this guide on Whiteman Park .

Caversham Wildlife Park is one of Perth’s most popular tourist attractions and home to an array of native animals, including kangaroos, wombats, koalas, birds, and reptiles. Read more about the animals, shows, and encounters, plus details on the cost and facilities, in this Caversham Wildlife Park review .

Whiteman Park has a wide range of recreational facilities, including free bbqs, picnic areas, a dog park, playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, two permanent orienteering courses, and pedal go-karts to hire. There is also a café and a kiosk to buy food and drink.

The park is open daily from 8.30 am to 6 pm apart from Christmas Day which is from 9 am to 5 pm (for picnic areas only, attractions are closed).

West Australian Reptile Park

The family-owned reptile park offers reptile encounters, including shows, presentations, interactions, and holding a python. You can also meet other animals like a euro (kangaroo), brown goshawk, tortoise, and peacocks. 

We haven’t visited here, so we cannot comment on the animals’ conditions.

The reptile park is open Friday to Monday from 10 am to 5 pm (4 pm last entry) and every day during school holidays, but closed on Anzac Day, Christmas Day, and Good Friday.

Entry is A$15 an adult, A$7 for ages 3 to 15, A$12 for seniors, and A$40 per family (2A + 2C). Cash only.

  92 Henley Street ,  Henley Brook  

The beautiful historic town of Guildford is one of only three towns in Perth on the National Trust register. Founded in 1829, during the establishment of the Swan River colony, Guildford is best explored on foot. As most of the town remains relatively unchanged, you get a look into how life was in the early colonial era.

Visit Meadow Street Heritage Precinct to see the Colonial Gaol, built mainly by convict labour from 1841 to 1867. While there, view Taylor’s Cottage, a beautifully preserved heritage building once the home of Edward Taylor, an ex-convict transported to Western Australia for pickpocketing in Birmingham, England. The tiny two-room cottage provides a glimpse into how the Taylors lived with their 13 children! I’ve no idea where they all slept or if they all lived there together at the same time. Taylors Cottage is open from 10 am to 2 pm (closed Sundays and Mondays) with a small fee payable.

Guildford has four walking trails that take you along the Swan River, through the town, past WA’s oldest continually operating pub, the Rose & Crown, Meadow Street precinct, and Stirling Square. Stop to browse one of the many antique stores and boutiques or for a quick drink at one of the heritage-style pubs.

Download a copy of the Guildford booklet here .

Bells Rapids

Bells Rapids has two dog-friendly walk trails alongside the beautiful rapids. This area is best visited in winter or spring when the rapids are at their best.

Read more about these trails on this guide to Bells Rapids .

Walyunga National Park

Walyunga National Park covers both sides of a steep valley in the Darling Range. Walyunga is an Aboriginal name, the area being one of the largest known Aboriginal campsites around Perth and still in use by the Nyoongar people until late last century.

Visit in winter to see the rapids crashing along one of Australia’s best white water canoeing courses, part of the annual Avon Descent race each August. The rapids and deep pools are best seen at Syd’s Rapids, Walyunga Pool, and Boongarup Pool. Visit in spring for sensational wildflowers.

The two main picnic sites are Walyunga Pool and Boongarup Pool, which have free gas barbecues.

A National Park entrance fee is payable and is open between 8 am and 5 pm daily.

See this Walyunga National Park brochure for details of trails.

Swan Valley Restaurants & Cafes

Swan Valley is a region known for its beautiful vineyards and wineries, as well as its restaurants and cafes. There are many different places to eat in the Swan Valley, from family-friendly cafes to stylish venues with stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an elaborate meal, the Swan Valley is a food lovers delight.

Mandoon Estate features Wild Swan, a fine dining restaurant, Homestead Brewery, and The Lawn, where you can relax while the kids play. The Erceg family bought the historical Roe Family property and established Mandoon Estate in 2008.

Sandalford Wines Bar and Restaurant has stunning views over the vineyard and offers fresh local produce incorporating Australian and European influences.

Sittella Winery is a favourite with Perth locals who keep returning for the delicious food and award-winning wines with vineyard views.

For some of the best high tea in the Swan Valley, try the Cottage Tea Rooms or Lavender Bistro & Boutique .

The best breakfast options in the Swan Valley are the Guildford Milk Bar, Taylors in the Valley, Little Guildford, and The Coffee Hut.

Where is the Swan Valley?

The Swan Valley is north east of Perth, at the upper part of the Swan River, between Bells Rapids and Guildford. The region has beautiful views of the Darling Range.

International and domestic visitors will fly into Perth Airport. Find details about visas, prohibited items, currency, and safety in this  Australia Travel Guide and tips on arriving into WA and other essential travel information in this Western Australia Travel Guide .

There are car hire booths at Perth Airport , but it’s best to pre-book your car rental. To compare Australian car hire prices, Discover Cars is an award-winning car rental comparison website. They offer competitive pricing in over 10,000 locations worldwide and are highly rated. DriveNow is a good resource to compare campervan hire in Western Australia. It includes all the large companies like Britz, Maui, & Jucy as well as smaller ones. Compare Rental Cars Here .

How to get to the Swan Valley

The Swan Valley is a half-hour drive from Perth along Guildford Road and ten minutes from Perth airport .

If you are meeting your tour in the valley, take the train on the Midland line and get off at Guildford station. From there, you can grab a taxi or rideshare to the meeting point.

A relaxing way to experience the Swan Valley is on a scenic cruise up the Swan River from Perth, with lunch included.

Swan Valley Map

Before you visit the Swan Valley, download this map to help plan your itinerary.

How to get around the Swan Valley

The Swan Valley is spread out without many public transport options. Therefore, you will need your own form of transport to get around or take a tour .

The Best Time to visit the Swan Valley

The Swan Valley is beautiful year-round, although I prefer not to visit during the summer heat when the surrounding countryside is dry and there is little breeze. However, cooler summer days are perfect for picnics on the lawns and wine tasting in air-conditioned cellar doors. Autumn is beautiful, with the vines turning a golden colour and my favourite time of year. Perth’s weather is still warm but not too hot, and the skies are blue — perfect days for hiking, long lunches, and visiting Caversham Wildlife Park.

Winter brings cooler weather and some rain, but some sunny days too. A great time for bike rides when it’s not raining and visiting indoor attractions, like Yahava Koffeeworks and Margaret River Chocolate Factory, when it is. After heavy rain, Bells Rapids will be in full flow, and the best time to visit.

Spring is the prettiest time in the Swan Valley when the wildflowers are out, and the fields and vines are green after winter rain.

Swan Valley Accommodation

Have you booked accommodation? We use Booking.com for most accommodation bookings as they offer free cancellation on many properties and have a price match guarantee. We book through Stayz (part of VRBO) for private accommodation as we find it is often cheaper than Airbnb. Tip : Accommodation gets booked quickly, especially during the WA school holidays . To avoid disappointment, book early.

The Swan Valley offers different types of accommodation depending on budget and style. Some of the most popular and highly rated options are:

Lot113 Vineyard Accommodation offers two lovely air-conditioned studio rooms with a kitchenette and decking with an outdoor kitchen and Weber Q. A self-catering continental breakfast is supplied.

The Swan Valley Retreat is a peaceful and luxurious space to relax for adults only. Enjoy a treatment at the spa or take in the stunning view from one of the three suites.

Nivalis Bed And Breakfast features an outdoor pool, gardens, and bbq. Guests have the option of a delicious continental or buffet breakfast.

The Rose and Crown Hotel , built in 1841, is conveniently located in Guildford surrounded by cafes and shops. This historic building is the oldest hotel in Western Australia featuring indoor and outdoor restaurants. Rooms include a 3.5 star, twenty-eight room lodge and two heritage-style boutique spa rooms.

The Colony at Mandoon Estate allows you to stay on a working winery with views to or of the Swan River. The property has an on-site restaurant, bar, and cellar door, and all rooms have a coffee machine and minibar – a great choice for accommodation in the Swan Valley.

Discovery Park Swan Valley has air-conditioned cabins providing budget accommodation in the Swan Valley. Park facilities include a swimming pool, BBQ area, a children’s playground, and a games room.

Novotel Vines Resort Swan Valley is popular, but I feel other accommodations provide better value for money. However, you can read the reviews here and judge for yourself.

Swan Valley Guide

For a complete list of Swan Valley Wineries, restaurants, cafes, and attractions, download this Swan Valley Guide from the Visitor Centre.

Save Money Planning Your Trip

Click on the links, which will take you directly to the website.

We fly Virgin Australia domestically due to their competitive prices and fantastic customer service, and fly with Qatar Airways to Europe.

Accommodation 🏩

We mainly use  Booking.com  for accommodation as they consistently have the lowest rates with free cancellation on most properties.

For pet sitting in Western Australia and worldwide, we are members of Trusted Housesitters . Free accommodation for pet and house sitting.

Car Rental 🚘

To compare rental car company prices, we use  Discover Cars , an award-winning car rental comparison website. They offer competitive pricing in over 10,000 locations worldwide and are highly rated.

Campervan/RV Rental 🚐

DriveNow is a good resource to compare campervan hire in Western Australia as it includes all the large companies like Britz, Maui, and Jucy as well as smaller ones.

Travel Insurance 🌏

Cover-More  and Travel Insurance Direct are our preferred travel insurance companies for domestic and international travel. See this Travel Insurance for Australia guide for more information.

Western Australia Travel Guide

For other ideas on where to visit in Western Australia along with the best things to do, where to stay, how to get around, and other essential information, click on the link below.

If you found this guide on the Swan Valley helpful, please consider booking through one of our links. It won’t cost you anything but will help towards the cost of running this site. Thank you.

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Ultimate guide to the Swan Valley

Travel & Touring  | WA Destinations

By: Tatum Stafford

The Swan Valley is one of WA’s premier destinations for gourmet food and world-class wine.

Located less than a half an hour’s drive from the Perth CBD, this 180-year-old region is packed with more than 150 attractions, including markets, food and wine trails and picturesque cycling routes.

Top things to see and do

Go cellar door-hopping

The Swan Valley Wine Region is home to some of the oldest vineyards in the state. A warm Mediterranean-style climate provides ideal growing conditions for sparkling and shiraz varieties.

Some of the region’s most notable cellar doors include the underground cellar of John Kosovich Wines, the picturesque outdoor shed at Lancaster Wines, and the award-winning small cellar door at Upper Reach Winery.

The Swan Valley is also home to several distilleries, cideries and breweries. Popular spots for tastings include Feral Brewing Company, Funk Cider and Old Young’s Distillery. Remember to choose a designated if you’re planning on doing any tastings.

Dine on delicious food

If you’re looking for a light lunch or platter, head to Lancaster Wines to make your own grazing plate, visit Upper Reach Winery for one of their grazing platters for two, or try a cheese board at Rustique.

Popular winery restaurants in the region include Mandoon’s family-friendly grassed picnic area, Sandalford’s picturesque al fresco dining area, and the grounds at Sittella. If you’d rather dine at a brewery or cidery, Elmar’s in the Valley offers traditional German food and live music, and Txoko Brewing, Ironbark Brewery and Funk Cider serve up delicious woodfired pizzas.

Other popular eateries include the Cottage Tea Rooms (high tea bookings are essential), Pasta in the Valley, the Lavender Bistro and the Swan Valley Sisters Produce Café. View all Swan Valley restaurants and cafes here.

Browse the Swan Settlers Market

Located in the centre of the Swan Valley, the vibrant Swan Settlers Market is filled with fresh produce, artisan crafts and an international food court. Entry is free, and it’s a fantastic place to stock up on locally grown fruit and vegetables, arts and crafts from local makers, and keep the kids entertained with live music and a playground.

There are also pop-up workshops and events on offer, like cheesemaking classes, an animal farm, and sets from local musos and buskers.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Swan Settlers Market (@swansettlersmarket)

Play mini golf

Though there are a few courses to choose from, Oasis Supa Golf is one of the most popular spots in the region to tee off from. Its Adventure Putt mini golf turf has 18 holes, bunkers, streams and water traps that provide thrills for the whole family.

If you’d rather play a slightly more traditional round of golf, ‘Supa golf’ is a modified version of the game, where clubs have oversized plastic heads and the ball is oversized and iridescent in colour. Supa golf is suitable for kids aged six and up.

Stock up your pantry

The region is jam-packed with producers selling everything from nougat and chocolate to honey.

Stop in at Margaret River Chocolate Factory for handmade truffles, unique chocolate gift ideas and a free tasting of their white, milk and dark chocolate buttons. Visit Mondo Nougat for many different flavours of nougat and other sweet treats, Maison Saint Honore for freshly baked macarons and other French desserts, Morish Nuts for their savoury-and-sweet mixes, like wasabi macadamias and spicy cashews, and The House of Honey & Meadery for their pure honey varieties. The City of Swan have mapped out these stops (and more) on the Swan Valley Sweet Temptations Trail .

Another Swan Valley institution worth a visit is Yahava KoffeeWorks. The team source Arabica coffee beans from across the world, which can be enjoyed at the roastery’s tasting bench or in a to-go bag. The site also has a Tea Shed, with plenty of premium leaf teas also available for tasting.

Visit Bells Rapids

Located a 15min drive from the Swan Valley, Bells Rapids are a series of white water rapids on the upper reaches of the Swan River. The area provides a spectacular backdrop for picnics, and also marks the start point of a series of walk trails that follow the river and reveal hundreds of wildflowers in springtime.

Hop on the 2.7km looped River Walk trail for views of the river and the Swan Coastal Plain below, or, if you want a more challenging walk, the 3km Goat Walk trail loop has steep hills with views that are worth the effort. Dogs are permitted on both trails, but must be kept on a leash at all times.

RELATED: Dog-friendly walk trails around Perth »

Ride the Swan Valley Cycle Trail

Passing fresh produce stalls, wineries, galleries and restaurants, this popular hop-on hop-off cycling trail is a great way to soak up the region’s history, natural attractions and scenic picnic spots.

There are four different routes along the trail to choose from:

• Route 1:  Guildford to Swan Valley and West Swan Road, 30km return, passing Sandalford and Lancaster wineries, the Margaret River Chocolate Factory and Lilac Hill Park.
• Route 2:  Maali Footbridge to West Swan Road, 8km return, family-friendly ride past wineries, galleries and attractions like Oasis Supa Golf.
• Route 3:  Maali Footbridge to Eastern Swan Valley, 18km return, passing wineries, art galleries and restaurants.
• Route 4:  Memorial Avenue, 3km return, quick loop that takes in five local wineries.

Check out the full Swan Valley Cycle Trail brochure for further route information.

Feed and play with farm animals

Head to the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm to enjoy a tractor train ride, a jump on the bouncy castle, a turn on the merry-go-round, and of course, daily animal feeding sessions. Visitors can bucket-feed guinea pigs and rabbits, bottle-feed lambs and piglets, and pat ponies, kangaroos, emus and even a miniature mule.

A unique way to spend quality time with farm animals is at an overnight farm stay. Settlers Rest in the heart of the valley offers a private farm stay experience in its cottage that sleeps up to eight people per night. The cottage is filled with kids’ toys, and a few pairs of gumboots that you can put to use on a daily buggy tour and animal feeding session. The farm has goats, sheep, guinea pigs, chickens and a pet cow – BYO apples and carrots!

RELATED: WA's best farm stays »

Browse art and antiques

Visit the Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery to browse paintings created by Indigenous artists from the South West. The artworks are contemporary, colourful, and inspired by each artists’ connection to the region. The gallery also sells a range of ‘bush tucker for the skin’ which features emu oil, liquid extracts of Australian native plants, and lemon myrtle oil.

Another popular art collection in the valley is the Linton & Kay Gallery at Mandoon Estate. The gallery exhibits an array of Australian and international paintings and sculptures, alongside Aboriginal art pieces from emerging and established artists.

James Street, the main drag in the neighbouring suburb of Guildford , is home to a number of antique shops with vintage homewares, collectables and quirky memorabilia. One of the most fascinating shops is Dr Russell’s Imaginarium, tucked inside Ethel St Courtyard off James Street. Here you’ll find vintage toy cars, old telephones and movie cameras, and even an impressive range of original Star Wars memorabilia.

Explore the nearby Walyunga National Park

The beautiful Walyunga National Park is a 15min drive from the valley, and boasts plenty of natural attractions, picturesque walking trails and vibrant displays of wildflowers in spring. If you’re eager to hit the trails, the 11km Echidna Trail loop offers beautiful views of the Avon Valley after a few steep woodland sections, or if you’d rather an easier walk, take the 6.4km Syd’s Rapids trail leaving from Boongarup Pool. You can stay the night at the Walyunga Campground, which is a short drive from the popular Walyunga Pool.

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At a glance

Getting around.

It’s difficult to travel around the Swan Valley on foot, so you’ll need a car or a bike to get around. If driving, make sure you have a designated driver if you’re sampling wine or other alcoholic drinks.

If you’d prefer to cycle, there are a few bike hire shops in the neighbouring suburbs of Herne Hill and Guildford – Perth Electric Bike Hire is a popular option.

Eager to eat and drink in the valley?

RAC members save 10% on Swan Valley Food and Wine Tours with Experience Oz WA.

Find out more

Last updated December 2021

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5-Day the Swan Valley Itinerary

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• the Swan Valley in 5 days
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Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: proximity is everything, day 3: keep it simple, day 4: visit perth's outback splash, day 5: off the beaten path, caversham wildlife park.

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Popular road trips from Swan Valley

What's the weather like in the swan valley.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in the Swan Valley for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in the Swan Valley in January
• Weather in the Swan Valley in February
• Weather in the Swan Valley in March
• Weather in the Swan Valley in April
• Weather in the Swan Valley in May
• Weather in the Swan Valley in June
• Weather in the Swan Valley in July
• Weather in the Swan Valley in August
• Weather in the Swan Valley in September
• Weather in the Swan Valley in October
• Weather in the Swan Valley in November
• Weather in the Swan Valley in December

All road trips from Swan Valley

• Swan Valley to Albany drive
• Swan Valley to Margaret River drive
• Swan Valley to Busselton drive
• Swan Valley to Cervantes drive
• Swan Valley to Adelaide drive
• Swan Valley to Denmark drive
• Swan Valley to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park drive
• Swan Valley to Esperance drive
• Swan Valley to Kalbarri drive
• Swan Valley to Kalgoorlie-Boulder drive
• Swan Valley to Broome drive
• Swan Valley to Denham drive
• Swan Valley to Coral Bay drive
• Swan Valley to Augusta drive
• Swan Valley to Yallingup drive
• Swan Valley to Yulara drive
• Swan Valley to Dunsborough drive

Explore nearby places

• the Swan Valley
• Henley Brook
• Baskerville
• Middle Swan
• Mount Lawley
• Gooseberry Hill

All related maps of the Swan Valley

• Map of the Swan Valley
• Map of Henley Brook
• Map of Ellenbrook
• Map of West Swan
• Map of Baskerville
• Map of Middle Swan
• Map of Caversham
• Map of Whiteman
• Map of Belhus
• Map of The Vines
• Map of Upper Swan
• Map of Woodbridge
• Map of Midland
• Map of Guildford
• Map of Bellevue
• Map of Midvale
• Map of Bassendean
• Map of Brigadoon
• Map of Ascot
• Map of Bayswater
• Map of Darlington
• Map of Belmont
• Map of Maida Vale
• Map of Mount Lawley
• Map of Highgate
• Map of Gooseberry Hill
• Map of Vincent
• Map of Bullsbrook
• Map of Stirling
• Map of Wanneroo
• Map of Gwelup

the Swan Valley throughout the year

• the Swan Valley in January
• the Swan Valley in February
• the Swan Valley in March
• the Swan Valley in April
• the Swan Valley in May
• the Swan Valley in June
• the Swan Valley in July
• the Swan Valley in August
• the Swan Valley in September
• the Swan Valley in October
• the Swan Valley in November
• the Swan Valley in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in the Swan Valley?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 5-Day Stirling Itinerary
• 5-Day Wanneroo Itinerary
• 5-Day Belmont Itinerary
• 5-Day West Swan Itinerary

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7 Fun Things To Do In Swan Valley Perth

Michela Australia , Australia Destinations Perth

7 must-do things for a day trip to the Swan Valley

The Swan Valley is a 25-minute drive from the bustling streets of Perth and offers a perfect escape for locals and tourists alike. With its lush landscapes, picturesque vineyards, and stunning historical venues, there are no shortages of activities to entertain and inspire you. It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Perth; you can’t go wrong with visiting the Swan Valley .

It’s beautiful in summer, and it’s the best time to get out amongst nature or sip a superb white wine from award-winning wineries like Sandlefords, Mandoon Estate and more. It’s lush and green in winter, where sitting by a fire savouring gorgeous local produce can’t be beaten.

So, if you’re lucky enough to find yourself solo in Perth , put the Swan Valley on your bucket list and work through this list we have put together for you.

Meet Australia’s wildlife at Caversham Wildlife Park.

A trip to Swan Valley will only be complete with a visit to Caversham Wildlife Park . Here, you can get up close and personal with some of Australia’s iconic animals , such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and more.

You can feed kangaroos as you wander through their spacious exhibit area or watch an interactive show about Australian farm life, including a sheep shearing demonstration. One of the highlights of a day at Caversham is getting right up close to the koalas at their unique koala sanctuary.

Experience the Swan Valley wineries on a guided wine tour.

One of the most popular attractions in the Swan Valley is its world-renowned wine region. To make the most of your visit, go on a full-day wine tour to explore some of the best wineries in the area.

The full-day wine tour takes you through a selection of top wineries in Swan Valley, allowing you to taste award-winning wines while soaking in the beautiful countryside views. You’ll have time to stop and pamper yourself to a lovely lunch at any of the award-winning lunch spots in the valley.

On the other hand, if you’re short on time or prefer a more compact experience, the half-day wine tour is perfect – giving you enough time to enjoy tastings at fantastic wineries indulging in beautiful Western Australian wines.

Treat Yourself to Some Chocolate at The Margaret River Chocolate Company

Indulge your sweet tooth at The Margaret River Chocolate Company in Swan Valley. Offering various chocolate treats, including truffles, chocolate bars and more, is heaven for chocolate lovers. Make sure to head to their café afterwards, where you can sip on a luxurious hot chocolate or enjoy a delicious ice cream.

Discover Indigenous Art and Culture at the Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery

For an enriching cultural experience, visit the Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery . This unique gallery showcases the work of local Indigenous artists, giving you an insight into Australia’s rich history and culture. Here, you can admire stunning artwork, watch live demonstrations, and participate in interactive workshops such as bush tucker talks and tasting sessions.

Meet and Greet Distilleries

Swan Valley is also a haven for spirit enthusiasts, as it boasts an array of artisan distilleries offering exclusive tastings of top-quality spirits, from whiskey to boutique gin distilleries. Explore some of the best distilleries for a unique experience, where you can learn about the intricacies of whiskey production and sample delectable varieties that exhibit exceptional craftsmanship.

Each distillery serves specialised whiskeys and gins for discerning connoisseurs, showcasing unique local twists representing Swan Valley’s exuberant spirit. Relish this rare opportunity to learn from artisans as they share cherished methods to create their masterpieces.

Indulge in a Gourmet Food Experience at Mandoon Estate

Mandoon Estate is one of the premier wineries in the Swan Valley, not only home to an award-winning winery and accommodation but also an exceptional gourmet food destination. The estate offers several dining options, including the elegant Wild Swan Restaurant and laid-back Homestead Brewery for those seeking something more casual. Regardless of your choice, your taste buds will surely be delighted by their mouth-watering dishes prepared with high-quality local produce.

Visit Historic Guildford

With its roots dating back to 1829, Guildford is a beautifully preserved historic town in Swan Valley. Stroll along the charming streets, lined with quaint heritage buildings lovingly restored to reflect their original splendour. Guildford’s antique stores and specialised boutiques beckon you to love their one-of-a-kind treasures and vintage wares. As you meander alongside the meandering Swan River , you’ll be captivated by the calm beauty of lush parks and gardens peppered throughout this enchanting town.

Conclusions

Visiting the Swan Valley on a day trip from Perth offers an unforgettable experience filled with diverse activities and breathtaking scenery. From indulging in the region’s exceptional wines and gourmet produce to exploring the astonishing wildlife and picturesque landscapes, there are endless options to make your time truly memorable.

Embrace the vibrant art culture, enjoy a leisurely cycle along its charming trails, or challenge yourself with an adrenaline-pumping adventure. No matter your interests or preferences, the Swan Valley will undoubtedly leave you enchanted and eager to return for more.

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More related articles:

Travelling The West Coast Of Australia

Best Places To Stay in Perth

The Best Margaret River Wineries 

The Best Places To Visit in Australia

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Swan Valley Wine Region in Western Australia: Perth to Swan Valley Day Trip Itinerary

My personal quest to visit as many wine regions around the world finally landed me in Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region dating back to the early 1800s. Though the Margaret River wine region is typically considered the poster child for vino from this part of Australia, Swan Valley has plenty to offer from the many boutique wineries dotted alongside the river.

The Swan Valley wine region is located conveniently just outside of Perth , which makes it an easy day trip destination for travelers headed to this west coast city. The Swan Valley wineries produce a number of regional wine styles that thrive in the warm sunshine-filled climate and fertile soil.

In particular, oenophiles who are partial to a dry white wine will love the crisp Verdelho or the Chenin Blanc which is also grown extensively across the Swan Valley vineyards. Red wine aficionados will appreciate the region’s Shiraz, and Swan Valley’s array of sparkling wines often grace the tables of celebratory events like weddings and anniversaries.

There are about three dozen wineries in Swan Valley – give or take a handful. With so many vineyards to choose from and so little time, how do you narrow it down for your Perth to Swan Valley day trip?

Here are some wineries in the Swan Valley that I loved visiting, plus some bonus tips for how to plan your perfect day trip to the Swan Valley wine region. First things first, here are some essential planning tips for your wine-filled Swan Valley day trip itinerary!

You may also like: Planning a trip to Perth? Here is my Perth city guide

How to get to Swan Valley from Perth

The Swan Valley wine region is just north of the Perth International Airport, with wineries flanking the winding namesake Swan River. The Swan Valley vineyards span from Caversham in the south all the way up to approximately Henley Brook and Baskerville in the north.

Unlike the Margaret River wine region down south where the wineries are spread out, the vast majority of Swan Valley wineries are concentrated and scattered within 15-or-so kilometres – this means that you can drive between each of them in just 5-10 minutes and really pack in your Swan Valley wine tour itinerary and sip on as many of the region’s warm climate wines as possible.

The best way to get to the Swan Valley wine region from Perth is to rent a car  (we have used Keddy by Europcar, Budget and Thrifty in the past) as public transportation is limited – this gives you the most flexibility to plan your perfect Swan Valley winery tour.

The drive from Perth’s central business district (CBD) will take just under half an hour. Remember, you drive on the left in Australia (the steering wheel is on the right) and you may be asked to show a valid international driving permit.

Looking for the best prices for rental car companies around the world?  Click here to book your rental car ahead of your trip.  Bookings can be cancelled or amended if your plans change!

In Australia, it is an offence to drive while your blood alcohol concentration is 0.05 or above but there are exceptions where a 0 blood alcohol concentration applies.  For more details click here.  You may exceed this limit if you are going on a winery tour in Swan Valley, so make sure that you either have a responsible designated driver or alternatively you can go on a small group Swan Valley wine tour which picks you up from your hotel in Perth. Alternatively, kick your feet up and go on a gourmet Swan Valley wine cruise and see greater Perth from the water.

Visiting Swan Valley is one of the most popular day trips from Perth, so make sure you book ahead – especially if you are booking during the peak tourism season between late November to February (during the Australian summer), or during school holidays.

You may also like: Looking for another great day trip destination from Perth? Check out my guide to Rottnest Island!

Where to stay in Swan Valley

Thanks to the proximity of Swan Valley to Perth city, you essentially have the option to stay in the heart of the wine region itself, or book a hotel in Perth and embark on a day trip to Swan Valley.

If you decide to stay overnight in Swan Valley, 1-2 nights is sufficient. I highly recommend booking this brand new Swan Valley winery accommodation: Maya Maya (formerly The Colony) at Mandoon Estate. Maya Maya is a lovely boutique hotel located on the award-winning Mandoon Estate in Caversham. Meaning “camp” in the local language of the Traditional Owners of the land, the Whadjuk Noongar people, the modern rooms at Maya Maya are comfortable and make for a perfect base for a quick Swan Valley trip. The property offers several dining options and a small children’s playground, though it’s best to visit during the weekend as some do not open during the week – you can even hop on over to the estate’s very own cellar door for a tasting. Click here to book your Swan Valley stay at Maya Maya (formerly known as The Colony) at Mandoon Estate! You can also check out other highly-rated Swan Valley hotels here .

Planning a day trip to Swan Valley from Perth for a short city break? I’ve got you covered! Check yourself into Accor Hotel’s Sebel West Perth , a boutique aparthotel with spacious rooms with a well-equipped kitchen and in-room washer and dryer.

The bed was delightfully comfortable and the shower water pressure was fantastic – there is also an on-site pool and gym if you’re looking to stay active. It is located just a hop and skip away from Perth CBD or a 5-minute drive from King’s Park. Click here to book your stay at The Sebel West Perth .

If you prefer to be near the beach or need a little more space, I highly recommend the modern 2-bedroom HoneyB apartment in Scarborough . The split-level apartment (living room and kitchen upstairs, bathroom and bedrooms downstairs) is perfect for families and friends traveling to Perth. There is elevator access, free gated parking and a small outdoor pool at the apartment complex. The apartment is a 2-minute walk from the beach. Check rates and availability at HoneyB apartment in Scarborough here , or you can also head on over here for other highly-rated accommodation options in Perth .

Tip: Room rates tend to go up from early December to around February during the Australian summer, so make sure you book your room ahead of time!

Best time to visit the Swan Valley wine region

Swan Valley tends to receive lots of blissful sunshine, though you will still need to bundle up to stay warm if you are visiting during the Australian winter or autumn.

The vineyards are especially picturesque and lush during the summer months (December to February), though you may also enjoy the quieter wine tasting opportunities during the autumn and winter months (though do expect the vines to be pruned and bare during these seasons).

As many of the wineries in Swan Valley are boutique or family-run, many smaller wineries close on certain weekdays or have limited operating hours, and some restaurants will open only on a weekend.

For those looking for a buzzing atmosphere the best time to visit Swan Valley is on a weekend during summer or spring. That being said, we enjoyed the intimate and peaceful visit to Swan Valley this past July – in the dead of winter. The days were warm and crowds were thin.

The best Swan Valley wineries to visit

Need some help compiling your 1 day Swan Valley itinerary? Here are some of the top Swan Valley wineries you won’t want to miss. You can very easily spend a day hopping from cellar door to cellar door, sipping on wine from grapes grown on vines that are over a hundred years old!

1. Mandoon Estate

Mandoon Estate is an award-winning boutique winery with a vineyard that is planted with Verdelho, Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Frontignac. The sprawling grounds are begging to be explored – head to the brewery for a hearty pub meal, or Wild Swan for something more refined.

Kids will love the on-site outdoor playground, and adults can saunter over to the Cellar Door to learn more about Mandoon’s approach to wine making and try a few of their varietals (a tasting fee applies and can be redeemed against a purchase). I especially loved the crisp, citrusy Surveyor’s White, you won’t want to skip this on your Swan Valley winery tour!

We loved our stay at Maya Maya (formerly The Colony) , the on-site Swan Valley boutique hotel at Mandoon Estate. The rooms are modern and extremely cozy – it’s a great base for exploring the Swan Valley wine region. Click here to check rates and availability at Maya Maya at Mandoon Estate!

Psst: Mandoon Estate is also home to Homestead Brewery, one of the top Swan Valley breweries!

2. Sandalford Wines

Established in 1840, Sandalford Wines is one of the oldest winemakers in Western Australia and named by John Septimus Roe, the state’s first Surveyor General. Sandalford is world-renowned for its premium wine offerings and even expanded its operations by purchasing 300 acres of vineyard in the Margaret River wine region.

The Cellar Door offers a range of Sandalford wines for tasting and is one of the best Swan Valley wineries for hardcore oenophiles – the tasting fee is a reasonable $10 for 6 wines, and you get a further 20% off lunch if you stay behind afterwards for a gorgeous meal. Don’t skip the 1-year-old Verdelho or the sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir featuring delicate fine bubbles and a hint of crisp apples.

Traveling with kids in tow? Leave them at the on-site wine barrel playground!

Tip: Need a quick coffee or pastry break between Swan Valley wine tastings? Head to The Naked Fox for your flat white fix (it also transforms into a casual wine lounge in the evenings) or munch on some authentic French pastries at Maison Saint Honore . For a no-fuss, cozy pub meal head to The Henley Brook .

3. Lancaster Wines

Lancaster Wines is the cool kid on the block (but it doesn’t really care if you think it’s cool or not), offering wine tastings, cheese platters and freshly shucked oysters at their outdoor shed.

This is the perfect Swan Valley winery to visit if you’re looking for an unpretentious and laid back venue – a natural casual gathering place for groups of friends and family! The Tin Shed White and Verdelho are definite crowd pleasers, or try the late-picked Chenin Blanc if you fancy a sweet dessert wine.

One of my best tips for visiting Swan Valley with kids is to head to places like Lancaster where they can run around – the winery is even home to a few farm animals who graze and laze all day!

Ready to book your visit to the Swan Valley?  For an overnight stay in the Swan Valley wine region I recommend staying at Maya Maya by Mandoon Estate , a boutique hotel within one of the best wineries. For those of you who are planning a Perth to Swan Valley day trip I highly recommend booking a stay at The Sebel West Perth , a boutique “aparthotel”-style property with spacious rooms, in-room laundry and dryer, pool and parking. We also loved our stay at the 2-bedroom HoneyB apartment in Scarborough , steps away from the beach with a full kitchen and living room as well as gated parking. Alternatively, check out some other highly-rated accommodation options in Perth City .

4. Garbin Estate

I had the pleasure of visiting the 3rd-generation, family-run Garbin Estate and tasted a few of their excellent Swan Valley wines with Katrina Garbin (who used to label all of their wines by hand!).

Their labour-intensive méthode traditionnelle sparklings are simply delightful to sip on (try the Chenin Blanc sparkling), as is the Sangiovese Rosé.

This would be my pick if you’re looking for an intimate Swan Valley wine tasting and direct conversation with the winemakers on their passions and methods.

5. Ugly Duckling

Ugly Duckling  is a small boutique vineyard and cellar door with an expansive outdoor area (perfect for crisp spring and autumn days). This Swan Valley winery offers free tastings from a select menu for groups smaller than 6 people, or you can try their reserve Shiraz and sparkling Chardonnay for just $2 a pop.

I enjoyed the Red Duck, a blended red of Cabernet, Shiraz and Merlot, and of course had to dive right into the regional specialty Chenin Blanc.

Ready to get your wine on?  I recommend staying at Maya Maya by Mandoon Estate for a luxury Swan Valley winery accommodation option, or if you are heading to Swan Valley from Perth for a day trip then check into The Sebel West Perth or HoneyB Apartment in Scarborough , or check out some other highly-rated accommodation options in Perth City !

Other Swan Valley attractions

The Perth to Swan Valley day trip is extremely popular with families traveling with young children – this is because there are some fantastic kid-friendly things to do in Swan Valley beyond the wineries!

Head to Whiteman Park for the little ones to enjoy a number of playgrounds , or see native Australian animals at Caversham Wildlife Park .

In addition to wine, Swan Valley is also home to a number of top notch breweries and distilleries .

Swan Valley or Margaret River?

If you’re short on time I can understand why you’d wonder whether you should visit Swan Valley or the Margaret River region. Is it really necessary to visit both? It really depends on what you’re after as it isn’t exactly an apples-to-apples comparison. The Margaret River region is a 3 hour drive from Perth, which makes it a multi-day destination; by comparison, Swan Valley is only half an hour from Perth’s city center and can be easily visited as a day trip.

There are more than 100 wineries in the Margaret River region and approximately 30-40 boutique wineries in Swan Valley, so there are more options for cellar door visits in Margaret River. Few Swan Valley wineries have on-site restaurants, so if you are looking to indulge in a winery lunch or two (or three) then you may want to consider driving down south.

The Margaret River region also has many stunning attractions and natural landmarks to visit, making it easy to fill your days with beach hopping, whale and dolphin watching boat trips, wildflower-laden walking trails and boutique cocktail bars.

That being said, the Swan Valley region is not only conveniently located, it (in my opinion) also offers a very approachable and non-pretentious setting for people looking for a laid back wine destination. There is an overwhelming sense of relaxation in the Swan Valley – where the pace is slower and everyone is welcome, a place where it doesn’t really matter if you don’t know what “tannin” or “terroir” means.

The crowds also tend to be slightly thinner than those flocking to the Margaret River wine region – many Margaret River wineries produce enough wine to export around the world, which means that the region also in turn attracts more international visitors who are familiar with the brand names.

In short, it depends what type of experience you are after – if you have a few days to spare on your Western Australia itinerary then I recommend heading down south to the Margaret River region. But for a perfectly enjoyable Perth city break then Swan Valley is a must-do in my books.

Planning a trip to the Swan Valley wine region?  I recommend checking out at Maya Maya by Mandoon Estate , a boutique hotel surrounded by beautiful vineyards, or if you are heading to Swan Valley from Perth for a day trip then check into The Sebel West Perth , a boutique hotel with on-site secure parking facilities, or HoneyB Apartment , a modern 2-bedroom split-level apartment steps away from Scarborough Beach. Alternatively, check out some other highly-rated accommodation options in Perth City .

I hope this guide helps you plan your perfect Swan Valley itinerary!

You might also enjoy these reads:

• Using Perth as a base for day trips? Here is my guide to putting together your perfect Perth itinerary
• Heading down south? Here is my guide to the best wineries in the Margaret River region , and stunning landmarks you won’t want to miss
• Looking for another fantastic day trip from Perth?   Take a ferry over to Rottnest Island for picture-perfect beaches and quokkas
• There are many, many picturesque wine regions around the world. Here are some top ones to add to your wine drinking bucket list
• For more Australia travel tips head on over here for even more Australia destination guides

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