The road from Perth to Albany winds through some of Western Australia’s most dramatic landscapes. This historic port city (Kinjarling in Noongar) played a pivotal role in both World Wars as the final departure point for Australian troops. Today, Albany blends this powerful heritage with spectacular coastal walks and pristine beaches. The five-hour journey from Perth offers two distinct experiences: the direct route through golden wheatfields or a coastal road past ancient forests.
This page may contain affiliate links. Read our full disclosure policy for more information.
While both routes lead to Albany, the coastal South Western Highway showcases the best of WA’s southwest. This route adds an hour to your journey but takes you through ancient karri forests and past maritime towns like Mandurah and Bunbury, with the option to detour through Margaret River’s wine country.
Planning Tip: The southwest region spans 23,970 km² (larger than Wales). Consider breaking your journey into 2-3 days to fully explore each route’s highlights.
Here are our favourite stops to explore along the way.
The Direct Route – Perth to Albany on the Highway
The southern wheatbelt route to Albany comes alive in early spring (mid-August into September), when yellow canola fields stretch to the horizon. Perth locals call this their “douth” season (local lingo for down south), as social media fills with photos of friends posing among the golden blooms. The route offers great views but is isolated, so make sure your car insurance includes roadside assistance and consider getting domestic travel insurance for extra peace of mind.
This direct route is faster and safer than the scenic option, with less traffic and better road conditions. You’ll find plenty of country towns offer welcome breaks along the way. Stop at Williams and Kojonup to stretch your legs. Williams has the Woolshed, and Kojonup’s main street features three family-run bakeries known for their meat pies and lamingtons, plus an IGA supermarket for road trip supplies.
The Scenic Route – South Western Highway
Adding an hour or so to your journey by taking the scenic route rewards you with ancient forests, ocean vistas, and Bunbury’s renowned street art.
These spots along the South Western Highway are our top picks.
Bunbury
The Bunbury Markets are worth a stop for local produce and cheese. While you’re there, check out the black and white lighthouse, hit the beach, or head to the Dolphin Discovery Centre, to learn about local dolphin conservation and spot these playful locals in the wild.
Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk
King’s Park in Perth has its own treetop walk, looming high over the city and 16 metres above the ground. The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, on the other hand, reaches 40 metres above the ground.
Nestled comfortably within the Walpole-Nornalup National Park, it’s a short experience that makes for a perfect final stop before Albany, and it’s a great way to experience the Tingledale forests without actually getting into the shrubbery.
The Long Way – including Margaret River
If you have time to split the trip over a few days we highly recomment what we call “the long way” and stopping in for 1-3 nights in Margaret River.
For most Perth residents, Margaret River is the prime spot for a trip down south. It’s far enough that you feel like you’re in the country, yet close enough for a weekend away.
Margaret River has also become the home to endless artisanal cheeses, wines, and luxury goods, making it a premier shopping and lifestyle travel destination, and one of WA’s most beautiful, must-visit towns too.
Here are just some of the experiences and attractions you’ll want to make time for if you’re travelling to Albany via Margaret River.
Leeuwin Estate
A winery, restaurant and venue famous for hosting talents like Tom Jones, John Farnham, and Diana Ross, the Leeuwin Estate really is a WA institution.
Though the region is home to endless wineries, Leeuwin Estate has shaped Margaret River’s wine heritage since the 1970s making it a must-see for tourists that are planning to travel through Margaret River wine country.
Cave Exploration Adventures
Giants, dingos, and even mammoths have their own caves in the Margaret River region, so take your pick for which cave experience is sure to leave you most in awe – or just carve out a little time for all of them! The cave experiences across this region also all have metal walkways for you to explore with headlamps to light your way.
Besides the ancient stalactites, underground lakes, and unique rock formations, one of the most memorable experiences is simply turning off your headlamps to experience the dramatic darkness of these caves – plus they’re a perfect escape on a hot day too.
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
You might’ve noticed that “Leeuwin” is a common name in the south west, and it’s because Leeuwin was the name of the first ship to visit the region and map it, way back in 1621. The lighthouse itself is famous for being the tallest in Australia standing at a whopping 39 metres high. And given the great expanse of coastline that the lighthouse is tasked with surveying, it’s wonder why this behemoth was built back in 1895.
The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse stands 39 meters tall at the point where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet.
The views from the top are spectacular, and the tour guides share some great stories about the lighthouse keepers who lived here.
Exploring Albany’s Heritage and Highlights
Albany’s rich history and spectacular coastline offer visitors several standout experiences. Here are our top picks for making the most of your visit:
The National Anzac Centre
Overlooking King George Sound, the National Anzac Centre tells the stories of the 41,000 servicemen and women who departed from Albany’s shores. The modern interpretive centre opened in 2014, marking the centenary of the first Anzac convoy.
Unlike traditional military museums, this experience connects visitors with personal stories – you’ll follow the journey of a real service person through interactive exhibits.
Allow 2-3 hours for your visit, last entry is 4 pm and book tickets online to avoid queues if visiting in high season.
The centre sits within the Albany Heritage Park, alongside other military installations like the Princess Royal Fortress. Walking trails connect these sites, offering both historical insights and stunning coastal views.
The Gap and Natural Bridge
The power of the Southern Ocean is on full display at The Gap. A $6.6 million viewing platform extends 10 meters out from the cliff face, letting you safely experience the 40-meter drop to the surging water below. The engineering marvel includes a grated floor section showing the full drop – though walking across is optional!
Located in Torndirrup National Park, 10km from Albany, The Gap requires a $15 park entry fee per vehicle. Early morning visits offer the best experience, before tour buses arrive. The accessible pathway leads to both the viewing platform and the Natural Bridge, a granite arch carved by the ocean that’s particularly striking at sunset.
A short walk leads to the Natural Bridge, where the ocean has carved a granite arch that’s especially photogenic at sunset.
Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool
Just 15km west of Denmark, these massive granite boulders earned their name by resembling a herd of elephants paddling in the shallow waters. The rocks shelter a small beach that’s perfect for swimming when the wind picks up at Greens Pool.
It’s a free, easy 5-minute walk from the carpark to the rocks, best visited at low tide or in morning light for photos. During peak season, arrive early as parking is limited. The walking trail to Greens Pool takes about 15 minutes, offering views over William Bay National Park’s pristine coastline.
Plan Your Southwest Adventure
Whether you choose the direct route or take the scenic coastal road, the journey from Perth to Albany promises unforgettable experiences. Each trip brings new encounters with local wildlife – from wild kangaroos and emus to the cheerful “Twenty Eight” parrots that call this region home. Ready to explore the southwest?
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak wildflower season (August-September) when the region attracts visitors from around the world.
Have questions about exploring Australia?
Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help