Western Self-drive

Days 1 to 5. Perth & Rottnest Island [B (Days 4 & 5 only)]

Depart London for Perth flying via Asia. On arrival on Day 3 make your way to the Goodearth Hotel where you spend three nights. Perth is a sparkling, attractive city, dominated by an idyllic riverside location and views of the distant Darling Ranges. During your stay here you may have time for botanising in Kings Park or visiting Rottnest Island, approximately twenty kilometres from the coast. With its crystal clear waters, sandy beaches and bays, Rottnest Island is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and birdwatching. It is also home to the endearing Quokka. A full day cruise is included here, the boat journey not only providing a pleasant trip down the Swan River from Perth to the Indian Ocean, but it may also offer sightings of seabirds and Humpback Whales.

Day 6. Cape Naturaliste [B]

A morning's drive south lies the stunning coastline of Cape Naturaliste and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. Here, at the right season, you will be able to watch migrating Humpback Whales, resident Bottle-nosed Dolphins, abundant Western Grey Kangaroos, an excellent variety of seabirds that includes Black-browed, and Yellow-nosed Albatrosses, and Australia's southern-most colony of Red-tailed Tropicbirds. Apart from wildlifeviewing, you may also wish to explore the spectacular caves that are found in the area, and enjoy the magnificent white, sandy beaches and wineries. Your base is the Best Western for 1-night.

Days 7 to 9. Albany [B (Days 8 & 9 only)]

The drive to Albany will allow you to enjoy the giant Karri forests - this is a spectacle not to be missed and its birdlife includes several endemics. From Albany spend a day enjoying the unique vegetation of the Stirling Range National Park (a stunning display of colourful wild flowers in spring), search for the endangered Noisy Scrub-bird at Two Peoples Bay, or watch the Southern Right Whales which winter in nearby waters. You spend three nights at the Esplanade Hotel in Albany.

Days 10 & 11. Esperance [B]

On the drive eastwards to the town of Esperance you may enjoy some of the birds and plants of the Fitzgerald River National Park's hills and heathlands. During your stay at the Esperance Bay Resort, take a boat to the offshore islands where Cape Barren Geese, White-bellied Sea Eagles and a variety of dolphins and whales are regularly seen. Nearby, Cape Le Grand National Park offers good walks, beaches and fine coastal scenery.

Days 12 to 14. Wheatbelt & Wave Rock [B]

The 2-day journey to Perth via Wave Rock is long but interesting, providing an insight into the lifestyles of the rural farming communities. Spend two nights at the Hyde Hotel in Hyden, and your final night back at the Goodearth Hotel in Perth.

Days 15 & 16. Homeward [B (Day 15 only)]

Head home today on an overnight flight, or perhaps fly up to Shark Bay, the Ningaloo Reef or the Kimberleys.

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Please note that car hire does not include the bond (deposit), petrol, government stamp duty and excess insurance costs.