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"Epic 26-Day 4X4 Camper Road Trip from Perth Through South Coast to the Mainland"

Embarking on a 4X4 campervan road trip through Western Australia was a dream come true. With our motorhome ready and the route planner set, we set off from Perth, excited to explore this incredible part of the world. Over the course of 26 days, we journeyed through coastal beauty, dense forests, rugged outback, and historical towns. Whether it was gazing at the majestic whales off the coast or taking a walk through ancient forests, this was an adventure the whole family will remember forever.

Kings Park and Botanic Garden – A Great Start

We began our journey by exploring Kings Park and Botanic Garden, right in the heart of Perth. It’s the perfect place to kick off any trip, with panoramic views of the city and the Swan River, and plenty of walking trails. We were able to stretch our legs, enjoy a picnic, and experience the unique flora of Western Australia, all while learning about the rich indigenous culture.

From Bunbury to the Cape to Cape Walk Track

Our next stop was the charming city of Bunbury, known for its stunning beaches and the Dolphin Discovery Centre. The kids loved learning about the local dolphins, and we even had a chance to see them up close. Afterward, we stocked up at the Bunbury Farmers Market before setting off towards the famous Cape to Cape Walk Track. The track offered breathtaking views of the coastline and is a great way to enjoy the outdoors.

Exploring the Caves, Forests, and Heritage

We took our 4X4 camper off-road to explore some truly unique spots, starting with Ngilgi Cave, where we learned about the fascinating underground world of stalactites and stalagmites. From there, it was a short drive to Eagles Heritage, where we saw majestic birds of prey in action.

Heading further south, we ventured into the Pemberton Discovery Tours, where we were guided through lush forests and scenic trails. One of the highlights of this trip was the famous Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, which offered a birds-eye view of towering trees and dense canopies. It's a fun, family-friendly way to experience the beauty of the forest without getting your feet dirty!

Whales, Waves, and Coastal Wonders

One of the most unforgettable experiences was in Bremer Bay, where we embarked on a Whale Watch Western Australia Orca Experience. These stunning, intelligent creatures left us in awe as they glided through the waters. If you're traveling with kids, this is an activity they won’t stop talking about.

Our next coastal stop took us to Greens Pool, a tranquil haven with calm waters perfect for a swim. After enjoying the beach, we continued our journey along D'Entrecasteaux Drive, which offered picturesque views of the coast and winding roads through the great Southern region.

Rocks, Lakes, and Outback Adventures

The adventure continued inland, where we hiked the Granite Skywalk and Castle Rock—two must-see natural wonders. The family loved the panoramic views from the top, which seemed to stretch forever across the landscape. Wave Rock was also a fun stop, a giant rock formation shaped like a massive wave. The kids had a blast climbing and taking photos in front of this iconic formation.

Further along, we ventured to Hannans North Tourist Mine and Gwalia Ghost Town, where we learned about the early days of gold mining in Western Australia. At Gwalia Museum & Hoover House Café, we tasted local treats and explored the historical mining exhibits.

Exploring Local Life, History, and Culture

Our journey continued with a visit to Ravensthorpe Visitor Centre & Museum, where we picked up information about the surrounding area. The drive through the outback was filled with fascinating historical markers like Pink Lake, a stunning natural wonder, and Lake Cowan Lookout.

For a taste of local culture, we stopped in Coolgardie for the Coolgardie Rodeo & Ute Muster, where we watched rodeo events and traditional Australian challenges. We also had a great time at the York Motor Museum, which showcased some of Australia's classic cars, sure to be a hit with any motor enthusiast in the family.

Family-Friendly Travel Tips

• Road Trip Planning: With such a long journey, planning is key. Use an RV route planner to identify the best campgrounds along the way. Many of these can accommodate your campervan, and booking ahead ensures a stress-free experience. For the more remote spots, ensure you have enough fuel and water, especially when driving across vast, open areas like the outback.

• Vehicle Considerations: While a 4X4 camper is perfect for off-road adventures, be mindful of the condition of the roads you’re traveling on. Some areas may require more specialized vehicles, so check your motorhome capabilities before setting out. If in doubt, you can always opt for a standard campervan for smoother routes.

• Pack Smart: Western Australia can have extreme temperatures. Bring light layers for hot days and warmer gear for the chilly evenings, especially near the coast and in the forests. Don't forget sunscreen and plenty of water, especially when exploring nature reserves and remote areas.

• Must-See Attractions: Some stops like Granite Skywalk, Whale Watching, and Ngilgi Cave should not be missed. These unique locations offer something for everyone in the family to enjoy, and they are often less crowded than major cities, allowing you to really immerse in nature.