Gloucester Tree

Gloucester Tree To Reopen Following Upgrades

This 58-metre-tall tree is set to reopen just in time for the Labour Day long weekend.

One of Western Australia’s favourite tourist attractions, Pemberton’s Gloucester Tree, is scheduled to reopen in time for the Labour Day long weekend, March 4th – 6th. 

The 58-metre Karri tree closed five months ago so refurbishments could be carried out. A specialist arboriculturalist has replaced the 153 pegs and added two new aluminium ladder sections. 

A new, smaller lookout platform will link with the main 53-metre-high lookout cabin and provide views over the surrounding farmland and Karri Forest. 

The tree was designed as one of eight fire lookout trees in the South West between 1937 and 1952. It has since been retired but remains a popular tourist attraction for visitors — although, allegedly only 20% of climbers manage to reach the top. 

While the Gloucester Tree is a popular tourist attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. 

Ampersand Estates 

Monique at Ampersand Estates | Source: @moniquececcato

Relax after a day of climbing trees and hiking through bushland at Ampersand Estates. Combining luxury and natural beauty, enjoy wines, spirits, and picnics whilst surrounded by the majestic Donnelly River and ancient karri forests. 

Ampersand’s wines express the terroir of the Pemberton soil while its distillery, Rainfall Distillery, creates unique vodkas and gins that showcase contemporary and fresh seasonal ingredients from the Southern Forest region. A must-try is the gin and vodka infused with Australian rain. 

Stay in one of the three luxury residences — each is self-contained and privately situated amidst its own lawns, gardens, and orchards. 

Tall Timbers

For a more laid-back night, head to Tall Timbers. With all its beers and ciders brewed and batched on-site, the Brew Pub is the place to sample all of the venue’s drinks while eating paired food. 

For something more substantial, walk across the road to the Manjimup restaurant. Tantalise your tastebuds with world-renowned produce from local farmers. 

If you’re just passing through the area, grab some local wine, beer, or spirits as well as some fresh hot meals from the drive-through. 

Valley of the Giants 

Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk
Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk | Credit: Francis Andrijich

Walk amongst the canopy of an ancient tingle forest on a bridge suspended 40 metres above the forest floor with the Tree Top Walk. The bridge moves gently, just like the sway of the trees, and is the perfect place to stop, reflect, and connect with nature. 

For something on solid ground, walk amongst the tingle trees at the Valley of the Giants. The trees can grow up to 80 metres in height and some have a circumference of up to 16 metres. The boardwalk meanders around and through the trees, providing a peaceful experience with quiet spots to sit and reflect in nature. 

Fontys Pool

Tucked away in the depths of WA’s South West, Fontys Pool — nicknamed the fountain of youth — consists of nearly an acre of fresh spring water. It’s surrounded by luscious timber trees and expansive grassy areas, making for the perfect site for swimming, sunbathing, picnics, and barbecues. 

There are four main types of accommodation to cater for a range of visitors and groups, from small tents and cosy caravans, to spacious and self-contained cabins and chalets. No matter what you choose, you’ll be waking up to spectacular views of Fontys Pool.

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