Great Southern

In the Great Southern region of Australia's South West dramatic forested cliffs are pounded by the wild Southern Ocean, providing shelter for cosy coves and calm bays. Coastal and country towns are steeped in the history of early European settlement. Rolling pastoral landscapes and majestic mountain ranges are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna and fine wines are carefully crafted in the region’s vineyards.

The Great Southern region is a nature lover's paradise, particularly around the national parks, the ranges and Kojonup. The countryside is teeming with wildlife and adorned with wildflowers in season.

The Great Southern coast was once home to a thriving whaling industry. Today it’s classed as a world-class site for whale watching. In season, these majestic creatures can be seen from many lookout platforms along the coast. It’s likely that you’ll spot dolphins, sea lions and penguins playing in these coastal waters too.

Travel inland and follow winding rivers and streams, passing picturesque farmland and visiting pioneering farming communities to explore the region's rich rural heritage. Taste delicately flavoured fine wines on a tour of the countryside around Mount Barker, Frankland, Denmark and the Porongurups. This area is rapidly establishing itself as one of Western Australia's premier wine regions and there are also a number of olive groves, berry farms and honey producers here.

Framed by the rugged Porongurup and Stirling Range National Parks, the port city of Albany was Western Australia's first European settlement.