Brimming with nature reserves and scenic bushland, hiking is one of the most obvious ways to get active in the Swan Valley and Whiteman Park is a stand- out spot to begin your walking journey, particularly with the family in tow. This unique conservation area covers nearly 4000 hectares of natural bushland and recreational attractions for all ages. The
Werriliyup Trail (2.5km), Goo Lorto Trail (3km), Wungunga Trail (4.3km) will each take you through scenic parts of the park. You’ll also discover an incredible interactive Children’s Forest to inspire the kids' inner forest guardian. With over 30 picnic and shade shelters, both in the Village and Mussel Pool, pack a wholesome meal and stay for the day among the friendly kangaroos and wallabies. For something a little more special, check out the tram rides or hire a Pedal Go-Kart to explore the 14km of shared use pathways through the bushland. Whiteman Park is also home to the iconic Caversham Wildlife Park where you can get up close to native animals (entry fees apply).
Located just a few kilometres from Gidgegannup, Noble Falls, offers tranquil and majestic picnic grounds on the banks of the Wooroloo Brook.
The Noble Falls Walk Trail around the brook is a leisurely 3.5km in length and takes you to the bubbling falls. Eucalyptus and paperbark trees linethe banks and through winter, the falls will be in full force. When the springtime arrives, you will discover blankets of wildflowers in bloom.
If you enjoy the thrill of water rapids, then make sure you pay a visit to Bells Rapids. Here you will find two walk trails along the edges of the Avon River. In winter the rapids run wild and give a thrilling display.
During warmer months the waters are calmer and offer a tranquil place to connect with nature. The River Walk takes you 2.5km along the edges of the river while the Goat Walk is a 3km loop and involves steep inclines and loose gravel sections.
If walking is less your style and you move best to the melody of water, a kayak tour awaits in the Swan Valley.
Rivergods Kayak Adventures and GoGo Active Tours both provide half day scenic kayaking tours up the stunning Swan River from Mandoon Estate. As you glide through the serene waters, take in the majesty of the surrounding landscape, spot beautiful wildlife in their natural habitat and learn about the history of the area.
There's also Off the Beaten Track Tours which offers a ‘Kayak, Wine & Dine Experience’, taking kayaking to the next level. Leaving from Woodbridge Riverside Park in Guildford, this half-day tour takes you on a gastronomic adventure paddling down the Swan River to Mandoon Estate. Work up an appetite on the water before enjoying a private wine tasting followed by a feast of delicious woodfired pizzas in the Homestead Brewery.
Got your own kayak? Launch it yourself from Middle Swan Reserve or Fishmarket Reserve and gently glide along the Swan, exploring in your own time.
For those with a taste for the finer things, a day on the green at The Vines Resort is an unbeatable option. It's home to two equally challenging 18-hole courses with unparalleled views. Surrounded by lush native bushland, expect to be teeing off to an audience of kangaroos and cockatoos. Designed by renowned golf architects, Graham Marsh and Ross Watson, expect championship courses that demand respect.
Alternatively, for something a little more light-hearted, attempt Supa Golf, located at Swan Valley Hotel complex. It's a new take on golf that will bring joy to all. This modified form of golf uses oversized heads and giant golf balls. It is mini golf with a difference and guaranteed a lot of fun and laughter. There are two nine-hole courses with bunker and water traps to provide a little more of a challenge.
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