Nestled in the unspoilt forests and native bush east of Guildford and Midland is the rural township of Gidgegannup Western Australia (WA). Here you’ll find a patchwork of agricultural fields, natural bushland and wildflowers, as well as an emerging fine food, wine and fresh produce industry.
Get a taste of the country in nature-rich Gidgegannup
Nature and Wildflowers
You can experience its natural wonders at F R Berry Reserve (PDF 6MB), which features a scenic 2.7-kilometre walking trail along the babbling waters of Wooroloo Brook. The reserve is particularly lovely from August to November when wildflowers burst into bloom, painting the reserve with splashes of vivid colour.
You can also see in-season wildflowers along two wildflower drives – the 53-kilometre Noble Falls circular drive trail and the 42-kilometre FR Berry Drive.
More scenic natural beauty is evident at Walyunga National Park, along the well-signed bridle paths in Tilden Park and at Noble Falls, just east of Gidgegannup.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
To see Western Australian fauna, head to the 2,000-hectare Paruna Sanctuary, where you can set out on walking trails to spot native animal species including quendas, tammar wallabies and black-flanked rock wallabies. Animal lovers should not miss a visit to visit Karakamia Wildlife Sanctuary. The guided nocturnal walks here are particularly captivating, allowing you to see Western Australia’s otherwise rarely seen nocturnal animal life. Phone (08) 6572 3169 for bookings to both Paruna and Karakamia sanctuaries.
Food, Wine and Fresh Produce
Foodies are also in for a treat in Gidgegannup, with cafés, cellar doors, an organic olive grove, apiary, produce and a bakery famed for its pies.
Agricultural Shows
You can take in the region’s rural atmosphere by heading to the lively Gidgegannup Agricultural Show, held on the last Saturday in October. The ‘Gidge Show’, as it’s known locally, and the Countryman Gidgegannup Small Farm Field Day in early June offer the opportunity to see farm animals and soak up country life.
You can make the most of your visit here by staying overnight at one of the charming bed and breakfasts or chalets nestled deep amid the natural beauty. Or book into a health retreat here to really unwind and escape the pressures of busy city life. Click here for a selection of accommodation.
The Swan Valley Visitor Centre has free brochures detailing all the attractions mentioned on this page.
For more information on Gidgegannup, visit www.gidgegannup.info
