Jason’s guidebook
My Favourite Beaches
FOR CLOSE PROXIMITY -
It’s a beautiful 1.8km walk to Middleton Beach and might arguably be Albany’s most well-known beach, offering swimming and recreational beach activities all round the year. The waters are protected by King George Sound, making Middleton Beach a popular surfing spot for kids.
Fish off the Middleton Beach jetty, or just sit and enjoy the fresh air. Dine at one of the popular Middleton Beach cafes, or embark on a walk up Ellen Cove Boardwalk. Middleton Beach is also a popular whale-watching spot, accessible to all ages. Spot whales just metres away from shore!
33 местните препоръчват
Middleton Beach
FOR CLOSE PROXIMITY -
It’s a beautiful 1.8km walk to Middleton Beach and might arguably be Albany’s most well-known beach, offering swimming and recreational beach activities all round the year. The waters are protected by King George Sound, making Middleton Beach a popular surfing spot for kids.
Fish off the Middleton Beach jetty, or just sit and enjoy the fresh air. Dine at one of the popular Middleton Beach cafes, or embark on a walk up Ellen Cove Boardwalk. Middleton Beach is also a popular whale-watching spot, accessible to all ages. Spot whales just metres away from shore!
FOR BEAUTY -
Little Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the south-west coast. Beautiful turquoise waters, white sand and large waves make Little Beach a must-see for travellers to the region.
Note: Other favourites for BEAUTY include; Whalers Cove, Green's Pool (William Bay in Denmark), and Frrenchman's Bay
19 местните препоръчват
Little Beach
FOR BEAUTY -
Little Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the south-west coast. Beautiful turquoise waters, white sand and large waves make Little Beach a must-see for travellers to the region.
Note: Other favourites for BEAUTY include; Whalers Cove, Green's Pool (William Bay in Denmark), and Frrenchman's Bay
FOR PROTECTION FROM THE SUMMER EASTERLY WINDS -
As all Western Australians know, with summer, come the Easterly winds, which are great off shore winds for most of the west coast. However, on the south coast in Albany, these winds are onshore and sometimes make our amazing beaches unpleasant. Nevertheless, there are a few beaches that are protected from this wind and will make you beach experience wonderful. Our favourite is Gull Rock but Frenchman's Bay, Emu Point (on the other side of the channel) are both still hot favourites.
Gull Rock Beach
FOR PROTECTION FROM THE SUMMER EASTERLY WINDS -
As all Western Australians know, with summer, come the Easterly winds, which are great off shore winds for most of the west coast. However, on the south coast in Albany, these winds are onshore and sometimes make our amazing beaches unpleasant. Nevertheless, there are a few beaches that are protected from this wind and will make you beach experience wonderful. Our favourite is Gull Rock but Frenchman's Bay, Emu Point (on the other side of the channel) are both still hot favourites.
FOR SURFING -
Nannarup is our favourite beach as a family for surfing because it also includes a nice sheltered corner, a river and dunes for sandboarding. For surfing it works best with Northerly winds and westerly swell direction.
Okay, it's hard to pick a favourite surfing beach because there are many considerations with the wind, banks, tides, swell direction and height etc. So, on other occasions, Mutton Bird or Sand patch could be preferred options. However, if your keen surfer, you could even drive a little bit further over to Denmark and explore some other great breaks at Ocean or Lights Beach.
Nanarup Beach
FOR SURFING -
Nannarup is our favourite beach as a family for surfing because it also includes a nice sheltered corner, a river and dunes for sandboarding. For surfing it works best with Northerly winds and westerly swell direction.
Okay, it's hard to pick a favourite surfing beach because there are many considerations with the wind, banks, tides, swell direction and height etc. So, on other occasions, Mutton Bird or Sand patch could be preferred options. However, if your keen surfer, you could even drive a little bit further over to Denmark and explore some other great breaks at Ocean or Lights Beach.
My favourite Hikes
FOR CLOSE PROXIMITY - Mt Clarence Heritage and Granite Trail, from our Beachwalk Retreat is only a 200m walk to the 3.2 kilometre loop trail, to enjoy the breathtaking views of King George Sound, Princess Royal Harbour and as far as the Stirling Ranges. The walk is lined with memorials and native bushland and there are several places to stop during your ascent and descent.
Note: Other great hikes nearby include; Mt Melville Loop trail, Middleton Beach Boardwalk, and the Lake Seppings 3km loop
Mt Clarence summit
113 Apex DrFOR CLOSE PROXIMITY - Mt Clarence Heritage and Granite Trail, from our Beachwalk Retreat is only a 200m walk to the 3.2 kilometre loop trail, to enjoy the breathtaking views of King George Sound, Princess Royal Harbour and as far as the Stirling Ranges. The walk is lined with memorials and native bushland and there are several places to stop during your ascent and descent.
Note: Other great hikes nearby include; Mt Melville Loop trail, Middleton Beach Boardwalk, and the Lake Seppings 3km loop
FOR AN EASY PEACEFUL WALK -
Luke Pen, A beautiful meandering 6kms of walk trail, closely following the Kalgan River. The Luke Pen Walk offers a lovely mix of vegetation from large marri trees to farming pastures. Gorgeous views are present all the way along the trail. Although this isn't a loop, so once you get to the end at the Upper Kalgan bridge, you will need to turn around to return (total 12kms). For something easy but shorter another favourite is the;
Baie des Deux Peuples Heritage Trail (Two Peoples Bay), this easy to moderate walk along the heritage trail in Two Peoples Bay Reserve has stunning views of the coastline looking over Two Peoples Bay. Choose how far you wish to walk.
Luke Pen Walk
East Bank RoadFOR AN EASY PEACEFUL WALK -
Luke Pen, A beautiful meandering 6kms of walk trail, closely following the Kalgan River. The Luke Pen Walk offers a lovely mix of vegetation from large marri trees to farming pastures. Gorgeous views are present all the way along the trail. Although this isn't a loop, so once you get to the end at the Upper Kalgan bridge, you will need to turn around to return (total 12kms). For something easy but shorter another favourite is the;
Baie des Deux Peuples Heritage Trail (Two Peoples Bay), this easy to moderate walk along the heritage trail in Two Peoples Bay Reserve has stunning views of the coastline looking over Two Peoples Bay. Choose how far you wish to walk.
FOR A MEDIUM HIKE
One of the most unique experiences in the South West, the Granite Skywalk located on top of Castle Rock in the Porongurups is a great finish to a rewarding hike. Drawing a lot of visitors each year, the views you’ll get from up here are breathtaking and certainly worth working up a sweat for. What I love about this hike apart from the obvious, is the canopy over the trail, making it an enjoyable hike in most weather conditions, the small caves at the top for the adventurous explorer and the medium difficulty level makes it achievable for most people. This is a must do!
Note: Just further down the road, the Nancy Peak Loop and Devils Slide hike are also amazing.
8 местните препоръчват
Castle Rock
FOR A MEDIUM HIKE
One of the most unique experiences in the South West, the Granite Skywalk located on top of Castle Rock in the Porongurups is a great finish to a rewarding hike. Drawing a lot of visitors each year, the views you’ll get from up here are breathtaking and certainly worth working up a sweat for. What I love about this hike apart from the obvious, is the canopy over the trail, making it an enjoyable hike in most weather conditions, the small caves at the top for the adventurous explorer and the medium difficulty level makes it achievable for most people. This is a must do!
Note: Just further down the road, the Nancy Peak Loop and Devils Slide hike are also amazing.
FOR HARD HIKES -
Bluff knoll, Located in the Stirling Range National Park, Bluff Knoll at 1098m above sea level, is the highest and most spectacular peak in the South West, but thankfully still accessible for a person of average fitness. The trail features include abundant wildflowers, birdlife, reptiles, exceptional scenery and views of the Stirling Ranges and geological formations. Just further down the road, Toolborunup, is just as spectacular and even more difficult in sections. The Stirling’s are more exposed to the elements, so pack for all conditions.
Note: Another favourite hard trail is Bald Head, Located in the spectacular Torndirrup National Park, the Bald Head Walk Trail is a challenging 12.5 kilometre return traverse of the Flinders Peninsula providing stunning views of the Southern Ocean and King George Sound. This rewarding hike won’t leave you wanting for more and has a number of great photographic opportunities.
19 местните препоръчват
Bluff Knoll
FOR HARD HIKES -
Bluff knoll, Located in the Stirling Range National Park, Bluff Knoll at 1098m above sea level, is the highest and most spectacular peak in the South West, but thankfully still accessible for a person of average fitness. The trail features include abundant wildflowers, birdlife, reptiles, exceptional scenery and views of the Stirling Ranges and geological formations. Just further down the road, Toolborunup, is just as spectacular and even more difficult in sections. The Stirling’s are more exposed to the elements, so pack for all conditions.
Note: Another favourite hard trail is Bald Head, Located in the spectacular Torndirrup National Park, the Bald Head Walk Trail is a challenging 12.5 kilometre return traverse of the Flinders Peninsula providing stunning views of the Southern Ocean and King George Sound. This rewarding hike won’t leave you wanting for more and has a number of great photographic opportunities.
FOR EXTREME HIKES - THE STIRLING'S RIDGE WALK
Why do the best ones have to be so hard! From Bluff Knoll to Ellen’s Peak, this has got to be the best multi day hike in Western Australia. It is a serious challenge though. Allow three days. In this sort of terrain, the number of kilometres is not worth mentioning as it is only a distraction. There are no facilities on this hike. There are a couple of unofficial campgrounds but you will need to bring everything with you, and everything out. AT Morphet’s guide book is essential reading, as is a stay at the Stirling Range Retreat who will help you out with the somewhat challenging logistics.
Is all of the pain worth it?
Yes. It is simply awesome.
16 местните препоръчват
Stirling Range National Park
FOR EXTREME HIKES - THE STIRLING'S RIDGE WALK
Why do the best ones have to be so hard! From Bluff Knoll to Ellen’s Peak, this has got to be the best multi day hike in Western Australia. It is a serious challenge though. Allow three days. In this sort of terrain, the number of kilometres is not worth mentioning as it is only a distraction. There are no facilities on this hike. There are a couple of unofficial campgrounds but you will need to bring everything with you, and everything out. AT Morphet’s guide book is essential reading, as is a stay at the Stirling Range Retreat who will help you out with the somewhat challenging logistics.
Is all of the pain worth it?
Yes. It is simply awesome.
My Favourite Tourist Destinations
FOR NATURAL WONDERS - The Gap and Natural Bridge are a great place to see the surging power of the Southern Ocean.
Visitors to The Gap can venture onto a new accessible viewing platform 40 metres directly above the surging seas in all but the worst weather conditions. At The Gap, is a spectacular channel in the 40m high coastal granites of Torndirrup National Park. The Natural Bridge is a granite formation that looks just like a giant rock bridge! This 'bridge' is caused by the gradual wearing away of the granite rock by the Great Southern Ocean. The natural bridge formation is a reminder of the power of the ocean. It is incredible to watch the waves roll across the ocean, crashing into the granite cliffside and rushing under the bridge. Lookouts at both The Gap and Natural Bridge provide outstanding views of the Southern Ocean and the coast from Bald Head to West Cape Howe.
45 местните препоръчват
The Gap
The Gap RoadFOR NATURAL WONDERS - The Gap and Natural Bridge are a great place to see the surging power of the Southern Ocean.
Visitors to The Gap can venture onto a new accessible viewing platform 40 metres directly above the surging seas in all but the worst weather conditions. At The Gap, is a spectacular channel in the 40m high coastal granites of Torndirrup National Park. The Natural Bridge is a granite formation that looks just like a giant rock bridge! This 'bridge' is caused by the gradual wearing away of the granite rock by the Great Southern Ocean. The natural bridge formation is a reminder of the power of the ocean. It is incredible to watch the waves roll across the ocean, crashing into the granite cliffside and rushing under the bridge. Lookouts at both The Gap and Natural Bridge provide outstanding views of the Southern Ocean and the coast from Bald Head to West Cape Howe.
FOR HISTORY - National Anzac Centre, a state-of-the-art museum blending multimedia, interactive exhibits and historical artefacts examining the Australian and New Zealand forces that served in World War I. While there, you can further tour the Forts and even the amazing views from the Padre White Lookout.
66 местните препоръчват
Национален център Anzac
67 Forts RdFOR HISTORY - National Anzac Centre, a state-of-the-art museum blending multimedia, interactive exhibits and historical artefacts examining the Australian and New Zealand forces that served in World War I. While there, you can further tour the Forts and even the amazing views from the Padre White Lookout.
FOR POWER - Albany Wind Farm is one of the most spectacular and largest wind farms in Australia. The wind farm walk offers spectacular views of the eco-friendly turbines along the Torndirrup Peninsula at Sand Patch. While there, you can also tackle the many stairs that take you down to Sandpatch beach.
13 местните препоръчват
Albany Wind Farm
FOR POWER - Albany Wind Farm is one of the most spectacular and largest wind farms in Australia. The wind farm walk offers spectacular views of the eco-friendly turbines along the Torndirrup Peninsula at Sand Patch. While there, you can also tackle the many stairs that take you down to Sandpatch beach.
My favourite Cafe's
THE ALLROUNDER - VANCOUVER CAFÉ, quite possibly has the best brekky in Albany, but lunch is also delish. However, it’s not just the food, the place just oozes Albany, with the heritage house featuring balcony views and delicious home baking.
11 местните препоръчват
Vancouver Street Cafe
65 Vancouver StTHE ALLROUNDER - VANCOUVER CAFÉ, quite possibly has the best brekky in Albany, but lunch is also delish. However, it’s not just the food, the place just oozes Albany, with the heritage house featuring balcony views and delicious home baking.
THE COFFEE WINNER - FREDRICK’s on York street is up there with arguably the best coffee but this title always comes with a lot of argument. So, for other honourable mentions, Naked Bean is only a 500m walk from our retreat and the guys at work are pritty keen of Solomon Merchants or Kate's Place.
8 местните препоръчват
Frederick's Café
36 Peels PlTHE COFFEE WINNER - FREDRICK’s on York street is up there with arguably the best coffee but this title always comes with a lot of argument. So, for other honourable mentions, Naked Bean is only a 500m walk from our retreat and the guys at work are pritty keen of Solomon Merchants or Kate's Place.
BEST AMBIENCE – EMU POINT CAFÉ is located on the channel between the stunning Oyster Harbour and King George Sound. Although it’s not just location that makes this café so special. This locally legendary breakfast joint does everything right: from one of Albany's best cup of coffee and cold-pressed juices to imaginative morning offerings, such as poached eggs with chimichurri and garlicky yoghurt, freshly baked muffins and jalapeño corn fritters. Eat inside or on the breezy seafront terrace. Runner-up for location is Haz Beanz on the Albany Mariner.
30 местните препоръчват
Emu Point Cafe
1 Mermaid AveBEST AMBIENCE – EMU POINT CAFÉ is located on the channel between the stunning Oyster Harbour and King George Sound. Although it’s not just location that makes this café so special. This locally legendary breakfast joint does everything right: from one of Albany's best cup of coffee and cold-pressed juices to imaginative morning offerings, such as poached eggs with chimichurri and garlicky yoghurt, freshly baked muffins and jalapeño corn fritters. Eat inside or on the breezy seafront terrace. Runner-up for location is Haz Beanz on the Albany Mariner.
FOR CLASS - BAY MERCHANTS - Just a sandy-footed stroll from the beach, this cafe-provedore makes good coffee, enticing cakes and gourmet sandwiches. The deli section has a good selection of local wines and local produce. It’s certainly a favourite for the early morning bike riders.
17 местните препоръчват
Bay Merchants
18 Adelaide CresFOR CLASS - BAY MERCHANTS - Just a sandy-footed stroll from the beach, this cafe-provedore makes good coffee, enticing cakes and gourmet sandwiches. The deli section has a good selection of local wines and local produce. It’s certainly a favourite for the early morning bike riders.
My Favourite Restaurant
THE ALLROUNDER – VENICE - I like a good-sized meal at a good price, and that’s why the Venice is one of my favourite restaurant’s in town because it does just that, without compromising on taste. They are focused on creating a family-friendly environment where diners can enjoy share platters of freshly made pizza, pasta and salads.
24 местните препоръчват
Venice Pizza Bar & Restaurant
179 York StTHE ALLROUNDER – VENICE - I like a good-sized meal at a good price, and that’s why the Venice is one of my favourite restaurant’s in town because it does just that, without compromising on taste. They are focused on creating a family-friendly environment where diners can enjoy share platters of freshly made pizza, pasta and salads.
FOR FINE DINING – GARRISON’S - Encompassing world class views that stretch across King George Sound to the ocean, gives Garrison the edge over its other competitors. However, fine dining comes at a cost, so be prepared to pay for it. LIME 303, should get a mention here and although it may not have the views, a lot of people do rate the food.
15 местните препоръчват
Garrison - Best Restaurants & Cafes in Mount Clarence, Albany WA
7 Forts RdFOR FINE DINING – GARRISON’S - Encompassing world class views that stretch across King George Sound to the ocean, gives Garrison the edge over its other competitors. However, fine dining comes at a cost, so be prepared to pay for it. LIME 303, should get a mention here and although it may not have the views, a lot of people do rate the food.
FOR MULTICULTURAL CUISINE – ALBANY’S INDIAN TANDOORI RESTUARANT – Sometimes it’s hard to beat a curry and this place won’t disappoint but there are a few good curry places in town, and I don’t think you can lose out, on any of them. For Thai, JOOP THAI is a favourite amongst locals, although I feel it’s a bit overrated for the price. If you want value, Three Plenties will do the job for your Chinese taste buds.
6 местните препоръчват
Albany Indian Tandoori Restaurant
75 Frederick StFOR MULTICULTURAL CUISINE – ALBANY’S INDIAN TANDOORI RESTUARANT – Sometimes it’s hard to beat a curry and this place won’t disappoint but there are a few good curry places in town, and I don’t think you can lose out, on any of them. For Thai, JOOP THAI is a favourite amongst locals, although I feel it’s a bit overrated for the price. If you want value, Three Plenties will do the job for your Chinese taste buds.
My Favourite Pub - No real standout!
THE ALL ROUNDER - DUE SOUTH, it hurts me a little to say it, but this place might just take the gong. It pulls a crowd and has the capacity to do it on the waterfront. Their meals a relatively good on taste and price, especially their mid-week specials and they have a good selection of beers. Although, my wife does find it lacks some healthier options. However, there is a few others in the same boat, 6 Degrees, White Star, 3 Anchors. No real standout amongst them for me though.
38 местните препоръчват
Due South
6 Toll PlTHE ALL ROUNDER - DUE SOUTH, it hurts me a little to say it, but this place might just take the gong. It pulls a crowd and has the capacity to do it on the waterfront. Their meals a relatively good on taste and price, especially their mid-week specials and they have a good selection of beers. Although, my wife does find it lacks some healthier options. However, there is a few others in the same boat, 6 Degrees, White Star, 3 Anchors. No real standout amongst them for me though.
FOR CLASS - LIBERTE is a cracker for style and tasty food, with it’s French-Vietnamese cuisine. However, it is expensive and it’s not a place for a hearty pub meal or to take your family but for that romantic night out, it could be just the right spot.
33 местните препоръчват
Liberte
162 Stirling TerraceFOR CLASS - LIBERTE is a cracker for style and tasty food, with it’s French-Vietnamese cuisine. However, it is expensive and it’s not a place for a hearty pub meal or to take your family but for that romantic night out, it could be just the right spot.