The Best Margaret River To Albany Road Trip Itinerary Via Walpole

A road trip from Margaret River to Albany is a fantastic way to experience the stunning beauty of Western Australia’s south coast.

As Perth locals who have explored this route as a family and a couple, we’re excited to share an itinerary highlighting the best stops, scenic routes, accommodations, and attractions along the way.

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.

Nannup

🛣️ Distance: Approximately 72 km (45 miles)

🚘 Driving Time: Approximately 45 minutes (excluding stops)

Leave Margaret River for Nannup via Rosa Brook Road and Mowen Road, which is now sealed.

Nannup is a small country town on the banks of the Blackwood town. Stop for a walk or something to eat – if you’re there around lunchtime, try the Nannup Brewing Co.

Between September and November, the Wildflower Wander in Kondil Park (the Kondil Walk) is a good place to spot wildflowers.

As you’re driving around the area, look out for farm gates selling their local produce. You may be able to buy free-range eggs, honey, olives, cheese, and fruit.

Pemberton

🛣️ Distance: Approximately 77 km (48 miles)

🚘 Driving Time: Approximately 60 minutes (excluding stops)

Pemberton is a beautiful spot amongst towering Karri trees and worth an overnight stop.

Some of my favourite things to do in Pemberton include

• Climb the Gloucester Tree: a fire lookout tree with 153 pegs to reach 61m
• Visit Beedelup National Park’s waterfall: hike one of the trails
• Cascades: a hike in Gloucester National Park
• Big Brook Dam: 5 km loop walk
• Climb the Bicentennial Tree: the tallest climbing tree in the world (please note there are no harnesses or safety nets on either tree)

Dinner: Treehouse Tapas & Wine Bar

Accommodation: We’ve camped at Fontys Pool near Manjimup and stayed at a farm stay in Pemberton, Diamond Forest Cottages. Both were great.

For luxury, try Mudstone Suites and for mid-range Big Brook Cottages and Rainbow Trail Chalets are highly rated.

Mount Clare Summit Trail Walpole

This trail is also only accessible via a gravel road. However, it’s my favourite hike in Walpole and worth a detour if you have a 4wd.

It’s a pretty easy Grade 3, 2.4 km return trail and should take about 60-90 minutes to complete.

Greens Pool & Elephant Rocks, William Bay National Park

Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks are one of the most popular attractions in Denmark and a must-see.

Greens Pool has crystal-clear calm water, perfect for small children. The water can be cold, though, even in summer. From here, you can either walk to Elephant Rocks or drive to the car park.

The scenery from Elephant Rocks is stunning; a great spot to sit and take it all in. From there, you can walk between two huge granite rocks into Elephant Cove, a small but beautiful sandy beach.

Denmark Animal Farm & Pentland Alpaca Stud

Our girls loved visiting this farm every time we were in Denmark. Admission includes food for the animals, who all looked well cared for.

The highlight was holding a baby joey with the guidance of one of the staff. Adult kangaroos can leave the property, but many choose to stay or return.

Denmark Vineyard

For adults, a visit to a vineyard might be more appealing. Our favourite is Singlefile Wines, located on stunning grounds with amazing wines (I love the chardonnay). Take a picnic to enjoy with a bottle of their wine.

Should you Stay in Denmark or Albany?

This post on whether it’s best to stay in Denmark or Albany provides the pros of each town. It comes down to your interests. Both have beautiful beaches, but Denmark is more forest, and Albany has more history. Both have great hikes and nature landscapes.

Day 5 Denmark to Albany

🛣️ Distance: Approximately 55 km (34 miles)

🚘 Driving Time: Approximately 45 minutes (excluding stops)

If you base yourself in Denmark, it’s not far to do as an Albany day trip.

Torndirrup National Park 

Head to Torndirrup National Park to visit The Gap and Natural Bridge. These stunning rock formations offer breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean crashing against the cliffs. It’s a short walk from the parking area to the viewing platforms.

While here, visit one of the stunning beaches, like Misery Beach. There are also several hiking trails, including the challenging 12.5 km Bald Head Trail.

National Anzac Centre

The National Anzac Centre, on the Princess Royal Fortress site, provides insights into the experiences of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers during World War I.

🤩 Book National Anzac Centre Tickets Direct Here

Town Centre

Visit Albany’s town centre to see heritage buildings, like the Town Hall, the Old Post Office, and the Albany Convict Gaol.

There are so many more places to see in Albany that you could extend your trip by a few days, especially if you want to visit Castle Rock Granite Skywalk in Porongurup National Park.

Dinner: Venice Restaurant

Albany Accommodation

Albany to Perth

Follow this Perth to Albany route in reverse for ideas on where to stop on the way back to Perth.

Albany to Esperance

If you want to continue your road trip, continue east to Bremer Bay and Esperance.

Best Time to do a Margaret River to Albany Road Trip

The best time to do a Margaret River to Albany road trip in Western Australia depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Both Margaret River and Albany have their own unique attractions and climates, so here are a few factors to consider when planning your road trip:

1. Weather: Western Australia experiences a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The peak tourist season is generally during the warmer months, from December to March, when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities. However, this period can also be crowded, and accommodation is more expensive.
2. Wildflowers: If you’re interested in seeing the vibrant wildflower displays, consider visiting during the spring months of September and October. This is when the landscapes between Margaret River and Albany come alive with colour.
3. Whale Watching: If you’re interested in whale watching, the best time to visit Albany is from May to October. This is when Southern Right and Humpback whales migrate along the coast, and you might see them from the shores or during whale-watching tours.
4. Beach Activities: If you plan to enjoy beach activities and water sports, the warmer months of December to February offer the best conditions. The water will be more inviting for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing.
5. Crowds and Accommodation: As mentioned earlier, the peak tourist season (summer months) can bring larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May).
6. Rainfall: The months from June to August are typically the wettest period in this region. While the rain can make the landscapes lush and beautiful, it might also affect outdoor activities and road conditions.

Need to Hire a Car?