Pemberton is a thriving town located in the Swan Valley, WA and Western Australia, where the landscape consists of rolling hills, green valleys and a beautiful river. Pemberton is located 160km north of Perth, a popular tourist destination with its world famous golf courses, wineries and other activities.
Pemberton, W.A. boasts a variety of attractions for visitors, but we’ve narrowed it down to 10 that you can’t miss.
Pemberton is a town that I discovered when I was studying in Perth and I fell in love with Pemberton. Its a fantastic place to explore and there are lots of hidden spots off the beaten track that you can explore. So whether you are a tourist looking for a quiet getaway or a local wanting to explore the area, there are plenty of things to see and do in Pemberton.
The town of Pemberton, 200 miles south of Perth, is the perfect place for a long weekend break. The first European settlement took place here in 1862, in the form of a homestead and a railway station. Pemberton is best known as a logging town, as it has been the main industry since the sawmills were built in 1913. Fortunately, the cutting down of primeval forests has been greatly reduced, allowing visitors to see beautiful primeval forests. In Pemberton you will find towering trees, picturesque valleys covered with sparse vineyards and many unique activities/attractions. This combination of natural beauty and unique experiences makes Pemberton one of the best places to visit in Western Australia. Below are the top 10 things to do in Pemberton.
How to get to Pemberton W.A.
Lodging in Pemberton W.A.
Recommended tours in Pemberton W.A.
Top 10 things to do in Pemberton W.A.
1. Yeagerup Dunes
Imagine walking through a forest and you come across a huge wall of sand dominating the treetops. This unique place is a huge system of shifting sand dunes, the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. In fact, the dunes move about 4 m inland each year as sand is blown inland by strong winds. Yeagarup Lake is adjacent to a day-trip area, which is accessible to all vehicles via a dirt road. There is an information board, a picnic area, sanitary facilities and a campsite.
From there it is 3 km (back) to the dune. People with four-wheel drive cars can use the off-road road to get to the base of the dune. This road is not difficult, and any car with four-wheel drive can handle it. The road continues over the dune itself and down to the beach, but you’ll need a serious all-terrain vehicle to reach the top of the dune. If you don’t have your own all-terrain vehicle, the best way to explore the dunes is with an all-terrain vehicle tour, see our recommended tours at the top of this page.
2. Climbing the Bicentennial and the Gloucester Tree
This super unique attraction is one of the main reasons to visit Pemberton, and I’ve personally been back several times. These giant trees, originally built as lookouts, had metal poles hammered into the wood for climbing to the top! The climb goes around the tree, to a series of platforms near the top and ends at a small hut. The surrounding forest is simply stunning and the view of the canopy at the top is breathtaking, it looks like an endless bubbling green sea.
If you go there at sunset, the view is even more unforgettable. The Gloucester Tree Hotel is located on the outskirts of the city and is very easily accessible. The Bicentennial Tree is 13 minutes from town, but it is the larger of the two. Both are surrounded by jungle and have picnic areas on their property. Opening hours : 24/7 Cost: Standard entrance fee to W.A. National Park – covered by W.A. Parks Pass Vehicle with up to 12 passengers – $15.00, Advantage – $8.00 Motorcycle – $8.00
3. Channybearup Rd and Vineyards
The Pemberton sub-region produces stunning wines and beautiful vineyards against a backdrop of towering forests and mist-filled valleys. The Channybearup Road is a scenic route through rolling hills and forests, with vineyards stretching along both sides of the road. If you follow the route from northeast to southwest, you’ll be in close proximity to a number of the other attractions on this list, which makes for a smooth and enjoyable tour of the area. You can take to the streets at various places. Pemberton is a small area with few visitors, and the wineries are sometimes accessible only by appointment or at limited times. Below are some of our top recommendations and links to their opening hours.
Mountford Estate – This winery produces certified organic wines and has beautiful grounds for picnics. There is also an artisan cider mill on site which sometimes hosts events in the summer. Hidden River Estate – If you are looking for a delicious meal using local and seasonal ingredients, this is the place for you. Located in a picturesque restored tramway, the restaurant offers an exceptional view and atmosphere. Pemberley of Pemberton –One of Pemberton’s best known brands, Pemberley has a reputation for producing excellent wines. Their grounds are beautiful and they host events that you can read more about by clicking on the link. Tastings must be booked through the wine experience, but this is a good price for inclusions outside of the usual tasting. Check out this link for a list of all the other wineries in the area.
4. Bluebird case
Located in the national park of the same name, this waterfall is beautifully landscaped with viewing platforms and hiking trails. The observation deck is easily accessible from the parking lot by walking 300 meters. On the way down, cross the suspension bridge over the steep, rocky streambed for the best view of the main part of the falls. From the viewing platform you can see the beautiful Karri Valley Resort across the river. This is a great place to stay and has a 4.5 mile hiking trail to the falls. To see the normal flow of the falls, you have to come in winter or early spring, but it is a beautiful and rewarding place to visit any time of year.
5. Pemberton Tramway
This is a unique and very fun way to explore the forest around Pemberton and learn more about the history of logging. The tram ride of about 75 minutes takes you from the city through picturesque forests and farmlands, accompanied by commentary on the history of the area. You will cross several beautiful rivers and streams and stop at waterfalls for a short exploration.
In spring, wildflowers add another dimension to the beauty of the forest. Opening hours : (Check the website for current opening hours and make a reservation to avoid disappointment). Ticket sales: Monday-Friday from 9:00 to 16:30, Saturday from 9:00 to 16:00 Leaving: Monday to Saturday – 10:30 am and 2:00 pm. Cost: Adult – $28.00, child (2-15 years) – $14.00, child (under 2 years) – $4.00.
6. Pemberton Pool
A portion of Lefroy Creek was turned into a natural pool for local residents and logging families in the 1920s. The pool is in the middle of town and is surrounded by beautiful large trees on one side and a dense forest on the other. The water is a little cool, but it’s great in the summer, with everything you need to grill while the kids burn off their excess energy. With good lighting in the morning or evening, the sun shines through the trees, plays with the rays on the pool and makes for great photos.
7. Pemberton Mountain Bike Park
With some of the most beautiful scenery in the southwest, Pemberton Mountain Bike Park offers several trails through the Curry Forest. The trails begin at the pool where there are restrooms and fresh water. You can also refresh yourself after the walk by taking a dip in the water. There are a number of trails of varying difficulty, as well as a learning loop and a dirt jump zone. For more information on available matches, click here.
8. Big Creek Dam
Big Brook Dam is another scenic, wooded swimming spot just outside of town. There is a small sandy beach, as well as restrooms and picnic tables. It is much larger than the pool and therefore suitable for kayaking and paddleboarding. There is also a 4 km footpath that winds around the shores of the lake. Fishing is also allowed here and the lake is stocked with trout, so you can try your luck and catch something for lunch! The nearby Big Brook Dam Arboretum is available for camping. You can also take a walk through the plantings of different tree species that have been sampled for possible planting in the area. Camping: Cost: Adult – $11.00/night, disabled – $7.00/night, children (over 5 and under 16) – $3.00/night.
9. Wood Crafts Gallery
There are many beautiful hardwoods in the forests around Pemberton, including the famous Jarrah Redwood. Using reclaimed and recycled wood from the surrounding forests, local artists create beautiful products that are both functional and decorative. Just stop by to admire the beauty of the materials and crafts, or perhaps to purchase a unique and meaningful souvenir. The gallery is right in the middle of town, making it a good stop on the way to or from some of the other attractions on this list.
10. Cascades
This section of Lefroy Creek is filled with rough granite that forms a series of rapids and cliffs. There are several good hiking trails and lookouts/bridges in the area where you can enjoy the views of the whitewater. The stream is generally not very impressive in the summer, but the area is still ideal for walks or picnics. In winter and spring, this area is at its most beautiful and can be an excellent subject for slow motion shots. The Cascades are close to town, just 10 minutes away, and are well worth a visit. If you take the above tram, you will stop here for about 25 minutes.
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Pemberton W.A. is located in the heart of the Margaret River wine region in Western Australia. The town is nestled in the sheltered hills of the coastal wildflower mecca and is a magnet for visitors. It has a rolling green valley with a romantic castle and a quaint old town. The surrounding vineyards feature some of the most acclaimed and finest vineyards in the world, making it the perfect place to visit for wine lovers.. Read more about pemberton tree top walk and let us know what you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Pemberton in the winter?
Pemberton is located in the beautiful state of Western Australia, and is well-known for its beautiful beaches and stunning mountain views. There are numerous activities and events that take place throughout the year in Pemberton including music festivals, comedy shows, dance performances, theatre, and much more. In the winter, Pemberton is known for its ski resorts. Its townscape is often likened to one of the most picturesque ski towns in the world, with the views constantly changing as the snow falls and the sun shines. This makes Pemberton the perfect place to go winter hiking and exploring the town. From the quaint shops of Pemberton, to the high country mountain views, Pemberton is a truly spectacular place to visit.
What is there to do in Pemberton today?
You may be familiar with Pemberton as the town that supplies the likes of Vail and Whistler with snow and skiing, but for a few weeks each year, the mountain town is transformed into an outdoor playground, particularly during the annual Pemberton Music Festival. If you want to spend a day in the countryside, Pemberton is the place to go. It’s a small town that’s surrounded by beautiful mountains and with a gorgeous setting. Beyond the sights that Pemberton has to offer, there are a number of other activities you can do. From hiking and horse riding to pottery and food tasting, you’ll find plenty of other things to keep you busy.
What shops are in Pemberton?
Pemberton is a small town located near the South Western WA coast, with some fantastic outdoor activities available to explore. Pemberton is a small town located in the Atherton Tablelands of W.A. It is a popular getaway spot for all of W.A. and the rest of the world, due in part to its impressive views and scenic surroundings. Pemberton has a diverse community and a large variety of shops and restaurants. There are a number of history museums that are worth a visit, while the local Pemberton Bistro is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike.
