Escape to the Perth Hills for Nature, Nibbles & Non-Stop Fun

A visit to the Perth Hills is like taking a deep breath of fresh air, just far enough away from the city to feel like you’ve escaped the busyness of everyday life. Nestled in the Darling Range, only 30 minutes from Perth, this enchanting region offers an idyllic retreat with its tree-cloaked valleys, striking granite outcrops, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant country villages.

Begin your adventure in Kalamunda, Mundaring, or Armadale, where charming streets and cosy stays await. The local visitor centres provide information on over 40 scenic drives, wine trails, waterfalls and walks, including the world-renowned Bibbulmun Track.

The Perth Hills also boast a rich arts scene, exquisite wineries, and an abundance of fresh produce. Delight in picnics, gourmet dining, and a vibrant community spirit.

Whether for a day trip or a longer stay, the Perth Hills beckon, so get set to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this captivating region.

Things to do in the Perth Hills

Bailup Farm

Located in Gidgegannup, Bailup Farm offers private farm tours where you can meet, feed and brush its adorable Highland cattle, alongside miniature donkeys and mini moos. The farm has also carved out a niche for its creative workshops, including Sip, Paint & Pat afternoons and a new Highland Cow Yoga experience that blends gentle yoga poses and cuddly farm animals, making it one of the Perth Hills’ cutest day-trip destinations. Bookings are essential.

Zig Zag Scenic Drive, Gooseberry Hill National Park

The Zig Zag Drive is a must-do in the Perth Hills. With panoramic views of Perth and the surrounding countryside, it’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon activity. The drive follows the route of an old railway line, offering stunning views at every turn. It’s a great way to see the natural beauty of the Perth Hills from the comfort of your car.

Bibbulmun Track Day Walks in the Perth Hills

Explore sections of this iconic long-distance walking trail, which offers stunning views and endless bush beauty, with its calming atmosphere and unique flora and fauna. The track winds through the Perth Hills, providing opportunities for both short walks and multi-day hikes.

See the Bibbulmun Track section guide here

Mundaring Weir and the Goldfields Water Supply Pipeline

Learn about the history of this engineering marvel, take a walk along the weir, and throw down a rug to enjoy a picnic in the surrounding parkland. The weir is an integral part of Perth’s water supply system, and the adjacent Mundaring Weir Hotel is a great spot for a pub lunch. This area also offers beautiful walking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Waterfalls in the Perth Hills: Serpentine, Lesmurdie and Noble Falls

In the Perth Hills, chasing waterfalls is a must-do activity (just stick to the designated pathways). Serpentine Falls, located in Serpentine National Park, offers a picturesque setting with tranquil pools perfect for a refreshing dip; Lesmurdie Falls in Mundy Regional Park is one of the area’s most spectacular waterfalls, cascading down a rugged cliff face and providing stunning views over the Swan Coastal Plain; and Noble Falls is a picturesque spot, with glistening cascades perfect for a picnic with friends and family. All three waterfalls are easily accessible, with scenic walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding bushland. These falls are quintessential stops for any nature lover exploring the Perth Hills.

Raeburn Orchards

For one of the prettiest strolls in the Perth Hills, make your way to Raeburn Orchards. This family-run orchard has been growing fruit in Roleystone since 1948 and is particularly beautiful during blossom season and autumn, when the rows of persimmon trees turn fiery shades of orange and red. Wander the working orchard on a self-guided walk, stock up on freshly picked seasonal fruit direct from the grower, then settle in with a coffee and slice of cake at Coffee @ The Shed. Exit via the gift store and fill your tote with artisanal finds crafted by local makers.

4 Raeburn Rd, Roleystone

Best Restaurants and Cafes in the Perth Hills

Jack & Jill Kitchen

Jack & Jill Kitchen is a great spot to start any day in the Perth Hills. A relaxed atmosphere, housemade treats, and brunch dishes you’ll fall head over heels for. With plenty of seating, it’s perfect for gathering with friends or enjoying a solo escape with a good book and expertly brewed coffee. The service is warm and attentive, allowing you to savour every moment—no rushing here, just a delightful dining experience in the heart of the Perth Hills.

18 Haynes Street, Kalamunda

Mundaring Weir Hotel

Few things rival the comfort of hearty pub grub, and the Mundaring Weir Hotel is a local legend in that department. With generous counter meals and one of the largest beer gardens in Perth, it’s a must-visit for a satisfying feast. Dive into their lively calendar of events and make it a weekend getaway by staying in one of their snug rooms. Don’t miss a visit to Mundaring Weir for those iconic dam views. Burn off those hearty pub dishes with a scenic hike along the Mundaring Weir to Kalgoorlie Pipeline or the Bibbulmun Track, which charmingly meanders past the hotel.

2672 Toodyay Road, Gidgegannup

Last Drop Elizabethan

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped back in time, make your way to the Last Drop Elizabethan in Bedfordale. The Tudor-style English pub looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a storybook, complete with a historic village green and crackling open fireplaces to curl up by in winter. Its old English atmosphere sets the tone for hearty pub fare like bangers and mash, slow-cooked lamb shanks and flaky beef and beer pie, best enjoyed with a fresh-poured craft beer from the on-site micro-brewery.

Sitchu Tip: Last Drop Elizabethan is known for its Sunday Roast, which comes served in a king-sized Yorkshire pudding. Book ahead to avoid missing out.

25 Canns Rd, Bedfordale

Seven Sins 

Seven Sins showcases sprawling valley views that vie for your attention alongside an abundant menu teeming with WA produce. Bites like sticky honey soy pork belly and baked halls suzette garlic bread are perfect for sharing, while indulgent mains like WA crayfish, lamb rack, and crispy crackle pork knuckle give you permission to be a little bit selfish. Pair your meal with a selection of local wines or ciders from the nearby Roleystone Brewing Company, both of which elevate the dining experience.

3/1 Soldiers Road, Roleystone

FOUND.LAB

We’re just a scooch obsessed with FOUND.LAB. This lakeside brewery offers a laidback food menu with mouth-watering pizzas and share plates, perfectly paired with a selection of refreshing craft beers, including their acclaimed hazy pale ale, SUPER. With scenic waterfront views and even a variety of cocktails on offer, FOUND.LAB offers a little something for everyone.

1 Olsen Gardens, The Glades, Byford 

The Flackyard

Respectfully sourced native ingredients intertwined with local produce and fine-dining finesse make The Flackyard, a 12-seat sustainable restaurant overlooking Lake Leschenaultia, one of the state’s must-visit destination diners. Choose between their six, eight or ten-course degustation, with or without their creative non-alc beverage pairings (the entire venue is alcohol-free), and settle in for an unforgettable afternoon.

Sitchu Tip: If you’re not prepared to go for a full degustation, you could stop by the Flackseed Kiosk, where country favourites like sausage rolls, hot chippies and slushies have been given a native Australian spin.

2135 Rosedale Road, Chidlow (Part of Lake Leschenaultia)

Millbrook Winery

Millbrook Winery is a Perth Hills gem, renowned for its no-waste and sustainable ethos. Executive chef Guy Jeffreys crafts seasonal dishes inspired by their onsite kitchen garden, boasting over 100 varieties of heirloom vegetables. Open on Mondays, Millbrook offers a three-course ‘No Waste Monday’ for $40, or $50 with paired wines, providing incredible value. On Sundays, enjoy unique wine pours and a tasty grazing platter.

Old Chestnut Lane, Jarrahdale

Best Wineries, Cideries and Breweries in the Perth Hills

Core Cider House

For 80 years, and across four generations, the Della Franca family has cared for the 40-acre orchard now home to Core Cider House, planting the first apple tree in 1939. The lush Pickering Brook orchard is now home to one of Perth’s premium cideries, offering an orchard-to-glass cellar door experience where you can sample sparkly, fruity sips overlooking the orchards. With a playground and sweeping lawns to throw a picnic rug down on, and easygoing eats on hand, it’s a great spot to while away a weekend afternoon with family and friends.

35 Merrivale Road, Pickering Brook 

Carmel Cider Co

Handcrafted “Methode Traditionnelle” ciders (think champagne-style) made with the highest quality fruits are the name of the game at Carmel Cider Co. The third-generation family-run orchard offers a down-to-earth cellar door experience, where fruit crates, barrels and bottles line the rustic shed and affordable tasting paddles ($15 to $20) of their ciders, wines and spirits make landing on your favourite easy.

680 Canning Rd, Carmel

Lawnbrook Estate

This gorgeous winery and distillery offers good drops with a side of country-style charm. Surrounded by picturesque vineyard views, Lawnbrook Estate’s cellar door is housed in a charming historic shed, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax over a glass and take in the stunning countryside in the heart of the Bickley Valley.

19 Loaring Road, Bickley

Myattsfield Vineyards 

Known for their passionate winemaking, family-run Myattsfield offers a variety of tastings and tours to explore their extensive range of wines. The vineyard’s welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a great place to learn about winemaking. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy a wine and cheese plate while relaxing on the veranda taking in the views of the valley and the Perth Hills surrounding. 

Union Road, Carmel 

Where to Stay in the Perth Hills

Wal 

Can’t remember the last time you switched off? Discover Wal, a hidden gem in the Perth Hills that promises a true escape from the hustle and bustle. Follow a narrow track and skip over stones to find this cosy Unyoked tiny cabin tucked into a hillside, offering breathtaking views of a vast valley of native bushland.

Originally built by a wild-hearted adventurer who left behind his business to explore remote corners of the globe, Wal is your chance to rediscover serenity and pursue wide-eyed adventure. 

Gidgegannup, Perth Hills

Amaroo Retreat & Spa

If luxury and relaxation are what you’re after, Amaroo Retreat & Spa offers tranquil bushland surrounds, an indulgent day spa, and a stunning restaurant and bar. You can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying all the luxuries. Each private chalet features an outdoor hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

1200 Alison Street, Mount Helena

Bickley Valley Cottage

Surrounded by vineyards and orchards, this charming cottage is ideal for a quiet, country weekend getaway in the Perth Hills. The cottage offers stunning views and features a fully equipped kitchen, so you can prepare meals using fresh local produce. It’s the perfect base for exploring nearby wineries and scenic trails.

15 Glenisla Road, Bickley 

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring charming villages, or indulging in local delicacies, the Perth Hills offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Pack your bags, hit the road, and uncover the serene and scenic treasures of the Perth Hills. Non-stop adventure awaits!

For more travel inspiration, explore our guide to the best hikes in and around Perth, and discover these awe-inspiring national parks that take scenic to a whole new level.