When it comes to iconic Australian road trips, Adelaide to Perth is at the top of the list. From the red dirt roads of Maralinga to the azure beaches of Barrens Bay, the diversity of the landscape along this touring route is staggering.

Point Lowly

As you leave Adelaide and begin your journey west, your first stop should be Point Lowly, home of the Point Lowly Lighthouse. The oldest building in the Whyalla area, the lighthouse was built in 1883 and has functioned intermittently ever since. The lighthouse overlooks Fitzgerald Bay and is the perfect spot for fishing, dolphin watching or stargazing. Visitors can even spend a night in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage in its refurbished dormitories and watch the sun set across the bay from the comfort of their room.

Maralinga and northern South Australia

En route to the Nullarbor Plains, your next stop has to be the town of Ceduna. While you’re there, stop by the Ceduna Arts and Cultural Centre, a celebration of Aboriginal artists and traditional culture. Artworks from more than 100 local and regional artists are on display and can be purchased from the gallery. The centre is committed to supporting Aboriginal artists, with proceeds from the gift shop going towards purchasing supplies and implementing training programs for the artists.

Fitzgerald River National Park

West of Esperance is the Fitzgerald River National Park, the perfect destination for avid bushwalkers and nature lovers. Not only is the Fitzgerald River National Park one of Australia’s largest national parks, but it’s also home to 20 per cent of Western Australia’s native flora and fauna, including the honey possum, the western whip bird and the ground parrot.  It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise. The area is also known for its picturesque beaches. For those who want to experience nature firsthand, spend a night at the Four Mile Beach and go snorkelling in one of its many rock pools.

Kalamunda

There’s still plenty of Western Australia to explore before you arrive in Perth. It only takes 30 minutes to get to the unforgettable Lesmurdie Falls. Located just 20 kilometres east of Perth, these 50-metre-high falls showcase the power of nature. Take a picnic basket up to the designated picnic area or dip your toes in the shallow waters of the lake. As the native wildflowers bloom throughout spring each year, including the Pink Rainbow and the Sticky Starflower, it’s recommended to visit the falls at this time to have most scenic experience.

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