When the days grow shorter and the air crispens, there’s a certain magic to escaping the city and heading south. For those craving the best winter getaways Perth can offer, the cooler months bring a different kind of beauty. In winter, WA’s forests deepen in colour, coastlines turn wild and windswept, and small-town hospitality feels warmer than ever.
Whether you’re craving forest walks, ocean storms, moody landscapes, gourmet food and red wine by the fire, or long, lingering lunches, these winter escapes Perth style are all within a few hours’ drive and perfectly designed for a romantic getaway, family adventure, or a stylish seasonal holiday.
Albany
For dramatic coastlines and a dash of history.
Albany wears winter beautifully. Mornings often roll in with sea fog, the Southern Ocean crashes against towering cliffs, and the town’s historic buildings glow beneath grey skies. Warm up over a long lunch at Liberté (think Parisian opulence meets WA produce), sip whisky at Six Degrees, and explore the National Anzac Centre for a dose of history.
Outside, take in the raw beauty of The Gap and Natural Bridge — winter swells make them all the more thrilling — or chase waterfalls in nearby Torndirrup National Park. Boutique stays abound; try Dunmoylen House for heritage charm or Hilton Garden Inn Albany for sleek harbour views.
Walpole
For ancient forests and misty mornings.
If it’s atmosphere you’re after, Walpole delivers in spades. The towering tingle forests feel otherworldly in winter, often cloaked in mist and dripping with moss. Walk high above the forest floor on the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, or hike through ancient groves in Mount Frankland National Park.
Base yourself at a cosy chalet or eco-retreat (look for wood fires and forest views), and spend your days meandering through nature. The pace is blissfully slow — perfect for switching off and sinking in.
Augusta
For windswept beaches and hidden cellar doors.
Often overlooked in favour of its northern neighbours, Augusta is a gem in winter. The crowds are gone, the scenery is moody and cinematic, and the nearby vineyards offer intimate tastings by the fire. Drive to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where two oceans meet — it’s particularly striking on a stormy day — and visit local producers along Caves Road.
Stay at Alouarn Apartments or one of the luxe Private Properties dotted around the south-west tip of WA, and make time for a good feed at The Colourpatch Café.
Pemberton
For forest cabins, luxe estates, and winter feasting.
Few places in WA do winter quite like Pemberton. It’s the land of towering karri forests, heritage timber cottages, and decadent truffle season. Head straight to Hidden River Estate for wine and bites, and explore the region’s famed farm gates and seasonal produce.
For a luxurious stay, Ampersand Estates offers beautifully restored heritage buildings nestled in the middle of one of the region’s top wineries and surrounded by forest. For a more rustic option, Silkwood Chalets places you deep among the towering trees.
Spend your days wandering misty trails through Gloucester National Park, visiting boutique wineries like Ampersand Estates and Hidden River Estate, and indulging in pinot noir and truffle-laden dishes at one of the region’s celebrated restaurants. Come nightfall, curl up fireside — it’s a Pemberton ritual.
Bridgetown
For WA’s cosiest winter festival.
Bridgetown proudly claims the title of WA’s winter capital, and for good reason. The annual Fridgetown Fest transforms the town with winter markets, mulled wine pop-ups, and live music. Beyond the festivities, you’ll find antique stores, bookshops, and some of the South West’s best pie shops.
Stay at Ford House Retreat or one of the charming Airbnbs scattered around town. Between market browsing and riverside walks, settle into a pub with a pint and soak up the country town warmth.
Ferguson Valley
For rolling hills and boutique cellar doors.
Just under two hours from Perth, Ferguson Valley is the perfect winter weekend escape when you don’t want to drive too far. Its undulating green hills come alive in the cooler months, dotted with boutique wineries and art studios.
Cosy up in cellar doors like St Aidan Wines or Green Door Wines, and explore quirky attractions like Gnomesville. Accommodation ranges from luxury farm stays to vineyard-view lodges — all ideal for winter grazing and lazy mornings.
Toodyay
For rustic charm and riverside walks.
When you only have a night or two, Toodyay is the ideal quick winter fix. Less than 90 minutes from Perth, it offers heritage buildings, excellent pubs (don’t miss The Victoria Hotel), and antique-hunting aplenty.
Stroll along the Avon River, visit Connors Mill Museum, and drive the scenic Toodyay Road through rolling countryside. Cosy B&Bs abound — perfect for lighting the fire and indulging in a good glass of WA shiraz.
