4 spectacular wildflower road trips in Western Australia

By Rachael Thompson
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A smorgasbord of colour is on display right now, and a road trip is the best way to see it.

Western Australia is home to some truly spectacular landscapes, which become even more breathtaking during wildflower season. More than 12,000 species bloom across the state in the second half of the year – 60 per cent of them found nowhere else on Earth. The floral display begins in the north and gradually moves south, transforming the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colour.

Below, four vibrant road trips that showcase a tapestry of seasonal wildflowers and quiet, heritage-rich country towns. 

Wildflower Way

Best time to visit: August–September.

Pink wildflowers in Morawa Western Australia

A blanket of pink wildflowers in Morawa. (Photo: Tourism Western Australia)

One of the most vibrant wildflower trails in Australia is the 309-kilometre Wildflower Way, which takes you from Dalwallinu through to Geraldton, passing through small towns including Morawa, Mullewa and Perenjori. Across three days, the trail will reveal a mesmerising floral display of everlastings, rare wreath flowers, golden wattles, orchids, scenic granite outcrops, peaceful farming towns, historic rail sites, quirky sculptures and beautifully preserved churches. There are 21 sign‑posted, interpretive sites to guide and offer fascinating insights into the land’s biodiversity, geology and culture.

Granite Loop Wildflower Trail

Best time to visit: September–November

Pink wildflowers in western australia

Toodyay is a popular first stop. (Photo: Tourism Western Australia)

This whimsical 7‑day road trip loops around approximately 843 kilometres of seasonal wildflowers, geological sites and charming heritage towns. On display are vibrant everlastings, donkey and snail orchids and tinsel lilies, all painting the landscape in a dazzling patchwork of colour. But wildflowers aren’t the only spectacular natural wonders along the way – Beringbooding Rock, with its Indigenous rock art, and Elachbutting Rock, often called Wave Rock’s lesser-known sibling, are also highlights on the route.

Esperance Wildflower Trail

Best time to visit: September–November

White wildflowers next to the beach in Esperance

White wildflowers blooming at Rossiter Bay, located in Cape Le Grand National Park. (Photo: Tourism Western Australia)

This spectacular coastal wildflower trail is more of a flexible scenic route offering a showstopping combination of vibrant wildflowers, pristine beaches and native bushland.  A popular driving route stretches across about 200–300 kilometres with key stops including Cape Le Grand National Park, Pink Lake (Lake Hillier), West Cape Howe National Park, and Fitzgerald River National Park, which display Australian bluebells, lambertia, Dryandra, and fringe lilies. 

South West Wildflower Trail

Best time to visit: August–November

Pincushion Hakea flower in bloom

Pincushion Hakea in bloom. (Photo: Tourism Western Australia)

The South West Wildflower Trail winds through scenic national parks, coastal cliffs and rich farmland. A common route from Perth takes you through diverse landscapes with key stops including Dwellingup, Collie, Donnybrook, Pemberton, Walpole, Denmark, Albany and Stirling Range National Park. Among towering Jarrah trees and dramatic coastlines, you’ll spot blankets of pea flowers, kangaroo paw, donkey orchids and eschenaultia. Keep your eyes peeled for emus, echidnas and kangaroos along the way. 

To know before you go

Before you head out on your road trip, there are certain rules you should follow:

  • Always keep to marked trails when viewing to avoid damaging small flowers and delicate wildflower environments.
  • Don’t take anything but photos when out and about viewing – picking wildflowers is illegal and can land you a $2000 fine.
  • Do not enter private property to view.
  • Many wildflower routes go through remote areas, so ensuring you’re stocked up on food, water and fuel is a must.
  • Stay out of farming crops and pastures.
Rachael Thompson is Australian Traveller's Evergreen Editor and a self-proclaimed cheese and gin connoisseur. In her role, she creates and manages online content that remains relevant and valuable over time. With a background in publishing and e-commerce in both interior design and travel, along with an English major from The University of Sydney, Rachael is dedicated to curating engaging content that informs and inspires. She began her career at Belle magazine, then went on to become Senior Content Producer at Homes to Love focusing on Australian House & Garden and Belle, followed by Editor at Bed Threads. Her work has also appeared in Qantas Travel Insider. When she's not writing, editing, or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars, and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list are Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Lord Howe Island.
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Wonil Hotel Perth combines riverside living with a sense of purpose

    By Kirsty Petrides
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    Perched on the banks of Perth’s Swan River, the Wonil Hotel Perth pairs contemporary rooms and sweeping waterfront views with a sense of purpose that sets it apart.

    In a rare model for the hospitality world, Wonil Hotel Perth operates as a not-for-profit hotel, directing 100% of its net revenue toward medical and scientific research across Western Australia’s five major universities. So while guests enjoy the calm of riverside living, their stay also quietly contributes to the future of science, innovation and health in Australia. And it’s a refreshing stand-out in Perth’s hotel scene.

    Location

    an aerial view of Swan River, Perth

    The peaceful riverside hotel is set on the banks of the Swan River.

    Wonil Hotel Perth is located in the inner-city suburb of Crawley, a peaceful riverside locale about 10 minutes from Perth’s CBD. It’s positioned steps from Matilda Bay Reserve, where walking trails hug the shoreline and black swans glide along the water. From here, it’s a short drive or bike ride to Kings Park, Elizabeth Quay and the city’s arts and culture precincts. Though close to the action, the setting feels removed – quiet, leafy and surrounded by nature.

    Style and character

    the reception area at Wonil Hotel Perth

    The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a picturesque view of Matilda Bay.

    Named after the Noongar word for peppermint tree, of which there are many shading the riverbanks outside, Wonil Hotel Perth is the first Australian property in Accor’s Handwritten Collection. The overall style is minimal without being sterile – warm wood finishes, tactile furnishings and clever lighting create a relaxed, understated space that melts into its natural surroundings.

    The lobby is stunning, spacious and filled with inviting leather couches, well-stocked bookshelves and Indigenous art and sculpture work. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors open out onto a sheltered outdoor deck filled with tables and chairs overlooking the river. During the day this serves as the world’s most picturesque coworking space, but come 5pm, it’s where you’ll find most guests milling around, cocktails in hand.

    Facilities

    the library nook at Wonil Hotel Perth

    Spend time reading books in the cosy library nook.

    Wonil Hotel Perth leans toward a pared-back offering, focusing on what guests actually need. While there’s no on-site fitness centre, hotel staff can provide access to the nearby University of WA gym and pool. But why would you, when the hotel is in prime location for an outdoor workout. Walk along the trails that meander through Matilda Bay Reserve, run along the riverfront to the iconic Kings Park, or even tackle the nearby Kokoda Trail – a steep 150-step ascent designed to simulate the exhaustion and effort of the original Kokoda Track soldiers in WWII.

    The hotel includes West Kitchen & Bar, a small but well-curated restaurant, plus free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms and secure paid parking. Limited parking is available on-site with an advanced booking.

    Rooms

    the premier king room with river view at Wonil Hotel Perth

    Each room is sleek and spacious with views over the Swan River.

    The hotel’s 66 rooms range from Standard to Executive and Premium, many with balconies and uninterrupted views over the Swan River, and some with interconnecting options for families or groups. My room was a Deluxe King with a balcony and river view.

    the bathroom at Wonil Hotel Perth

    Bathrooms are luxe and spacious.

    The space somehow manages to be both modernly sleek and warmly inviting – textured grey walls illuminated by warm sconce lights, an exposed concrete ceiling offset by rich timber accents, and a black wrought iron balcony met with earthy-hued, upholstered leather furnishings. The spacious king bed, roomy shower with luxe Mr Smith toiletries, and complimentary coffee add a special touch.

    Food and drink

    the outdoor terrace at Wonil Hotel Perth

    Gather for sunset drinks on the outdoor terrace.

    West Kitchen & Bar offers a truly local experience. When it comes to the drinks, you won’t find anything – wine, beer, spirits – from outside WA. Even the soda water hails from the west. The wine list sees big WA makers like Leeuwin Estate, Vasse Felix and Voyager dance alongside smaller producers like Ironcloud, Singlefile and LS Merchants; with beers from local legends Gage Roads, Little Creatures, Beerfarm and Eagle Bay Brewing.

    The dinner menu features seafood, steak and small plates designed for sharing, showcasing local producers. Standouts are the Rottnest kingfish with ruby grapefruit, the barramundi with Tuscan cabbage and the Harvey beef tri tip with smoked bone marrow butter and red wine jus. For dessert, a unique take on a classic – spiced red wine pannacotta, served with poached pear and fresh honeycomb.

    Come morning, the hotel offers a curated selection of buffet breakfast options including seasonal fruits, homemade granola, pastries and sourdough. Plus, guests also get a choice of one item from the à la carte breakfast menu – the tomato bruschetta with balsamic, basil, feta and poached eggs on rye was exceptional.

    Does Wonil Hotel Perth have access for guests with disabilities?

    There are accessible rooms to accommodate guests with accessibility needs.

    Is Wonil Hotel Perth it family-friendly?

    Yes – the interconnecting rooms make family stays appealing, and the vast grassland and river foreshore of Matilda Bay Reserve are a beautiful spot for kids to run, splash and play in nature.

    Best for: Couples, families, business travellers

    Address: 21 Hackett Drive, Crawley