A short one-hour drive from Perth is Chittering — a countryside of untouched natural beauty where deep green gum trees sit high atop lush grass hills. In the springtime, the region is at its most picturesque, vineyards and orchards are abundant and fruitful and wildflowers bloom from the earth in a tapestry of colours. Starting in September, the valley comes alive beneath the warmth of the spring sun, as events and activities draw in visitors from near and far. 

Events

Taste of Chittering

Experience a taste of country life and celebrate the nearing start of spring at Taste of Chittering. This free entry event on Sunday, August 27th, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in Bindoon, provides local produce tastings, market stalls, cooking demonstrations, and more, including kid-friendly activities. Watch the live band while you enjoy a beverage in the licensed marquee with lunch from the food vans or relish in your collected produce. With picnic rugs available to borrow, why not stay and make a joyous day out of it? Delight in the region’s produce, art, history, and lifestyle at this charming countryside event. 

Springfest 

For the whole month of September, welcome Spring beneath the blue skies of  Chittering at Springfest. Sponsored by the Chittering Tourist Association, the festival is a collaboration between community groups and local businesses to put forward the best of the region. With over 20 free, gold coin donations, and ticketed activities scheduled throughout the month, there’s no doubt you’ll find something for everybody in the family. Expect opportunities to discover local history, enjoy scrumptious food and fresh produce, join a stargazing event and take in the beauty of the night sky, marvel at the blooming wildflowers, immerse yourself in arts and crafts, and savour the flavours of wine.

Food and Beverage

Chittering Farm Flavour Trail

This tourist drive through the pristine Chittering takes you on a flavoursome journey of discovery through the countryside. Discover wineries and fresh produce throughout the region when you choose from the range of itineraries, each created with springtime in mind. 

Wineries, Orchards and Farms

The Chittering area is dotted with a selection of wineries, orchards, and farms that are flourishing in the spring months. Some of these include Berry Sweet Strawberry Farm, Necsi Estate, and Wootra Asparagus Farm. A hidden gem is Little Eeden Honey Farm and Apiary where pure, unprocessed, natural bush honey is produced.

Picnics

Providing a beautiful backdrop, it’s no surprise Chittering is a great destination for a picnic lunch. Throw down a blanket and open up the basket at one of the many picnic spots in the area, with several able to accommodate multiple needs and desires. While nine spots are listed on the website, we have no doubt there are many more if you feel like taking the path less travelled. 

If you want to add additional adventure to your picnic, AmazingCo Experiences has curated a Mystery Picnic experience that will take you on a journey through the area. Go on a treasure hunt of sorts, where you’ll be given clues to help you solve riddles, taking you to a range of local artisan providers. Here you’ll collect everything you’ll need for your picnic, bit by bit, eventually ending at your final destination — your secret picnic spot. 

Shop

Bindoon Farmers Markets

Not much beats a farmer’s market on a weekend morning. Held on the fourth Sunday of every month, these markets have a range of wine, fresh produce, preserves, plants, craft, and skincare products for sale. Buy yourself or a loved one something a little special. 

Roadside Stalls

Throughout the area, a range of roadside stalls line the streets selling a variety of fresh, seasonal produce, straight from the farm to your hand. While driving around keep your eyes peeled for these old-school shops.

Northern Valleys Locavore Store

Reconnect with your food origins at Northern Valleys Locavore Store. This farmers market-style shop has a range of locally-produced food for you to get your hands on. Find in-season fruits and vegetables, pastured eggs, organic olive oils, handcrafted cheeses, preserves, and more. 

Pop over to this link for an extended list of more places to shop. 

Scenery

Drives

Spend Sunday morning cruising down the road, taking in the beauty of the world around you as you drive past the wonderful scenery of the Chittering region. Here are some suggestions for specific scenic routes.

Wildflowers

During the springtime, wildflowers begin to bloom all across the region, creating an enchanting and striking sight for those who go in search of them. Use this brochure to know where to go and what to look for. 

Walking Trails

Allow yourself to feel connected to nature as you wander through the peaceful and serene valley environment, breathing in the fresh, eucalyptus-scented air. There are six walking trails within the area, each offering unique sights and encounters. 

Churches

The Chittering and surrounding areas are home to many churches, some of which are known to hold great historical significance. Whether you consider yourself religious or not, this is an excellent opportunity to admire the stone architecture of these buildings, some of which are centuries old. 
If you’re a history lover, and the churches are only the beginning, then these might tickle your fancy to add to your day trip plans.

There’s no better time than spring to get out and see Chittering. Find out more and plan your day trip by visiting Chittering.au.

This article was sponsored by Destination Perth and the Shire of Chittering.