Once you are relaxed and pampered at our retreat you may wish to go exploring through Perth's very own wine growing region. In fact, Perth is the only Australian capital city with a wine-growing region right on its doorstep. Step out into the Swan Valley and you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of Western Australia’s oldest vineyards, award-winning wineries and microbreweries, gourmet sweet treats and fresh produce, arts and crafts and beautiful natural bushland.
History and Heritage in the Swan Valley
The Swan Valley is characterised by its wide open spaces, fresh country air and endless vineyards and other attractions. The Swan Valley is the perfect place to explore whilst taking in the wonderful history of the area. Guildford is a picturesque and charming village that was established during the founding of the Swan River colony in 1829 and today it is only one of three towns in Perth on the National Trust Register.
The beautiful colonial architecture is just the beginning of the rich culture – there are also fascinating museums, churches, theatre houses and the oldest wineries in the state to discover nearby.
WA’s first vines were planted at Olive Farm wines in 1829. By 1950, Houghton, Sandleford, John Kosovich, Pinelli Estate Garbin Estate and Talijanich wineries were all thriving and producing world-class wines. Majority of these vintage vines are still family owned and run by the founder's descendants with generations of passionate winemaking in their blood.
The Swan Valley Things to Do
Head to the swan valley visitors centre which was voted best visitor centre in the country. The passionate staff know the Swan Valley inside and out and can tell visitors all the hidden nooks and crannies, the award winners, the family-friendly places, the romantic spots, the natural wonders and the many interactive experiences on offer.
Visit one of the many wineries, breweries, restaurants and cafes. From exquisite fine dining restaurants to salt-of-the-earth pub grub, the Swan Valley will keep your bellies full. Visit Swan Valley - Eat & Drink for more information.
Outdoor concerts. Gourmet goodies. Summer markets. Wildlife encounters. Masterclasses. Feel-good festivals. Long table feasts and more. Visit Swan Valley - Things to Do for an endless list of activities.
Explore the Cider & Ale Trail, which takes you to nine of the regions speciality ale and cider producers. Google ‘Swan Valley Cider and Ale Trail for more information’.
Try the Sweet Temptations Trail which indulges the sweet tooth that lies in all of us. This tour includes nougat, pastries, cakes and fortified wines!. Google “Sweet temptations trail”.
Take a wander around Guildford's historic shopping precincts.
Look out for the many roadside stalls on West Swan road which have the freshest seasonal locally-grown produce available. Think strawberries, table grapes, tangerines, citrus and berries, all in season.
Book a Swan Valley tour for free at the visitor centre.
Visit one of the many art and craft galleries or studios.
Explore the Swan Valley a little differently on a horse-drawn wagon ride.
The Swan Valley Walk and Cycle Trails
The Guildford Heritage Walk Trails are one way to get to know the area’s history and absorb as much as the beautiful landscape as you can. Take your pick from four self-guided trails, each offering an exciteful history lesson, tales of early life in the Swan Valley and a rundown of the intriguing characters that have resided in Guildford.
The Swan Valley Heritage Cycle Trail takes in the rich history, endless attractions and natural elements of the Swan Valley. A stunning showcase of fresh produce stalls, beautiful picnic spots, exciting galleries, and a host of world-class wineries, breweries and restaurants, there are countless opportunities to enjoy an abundance of experiences.
The cycle trail has four different routes, each is signed to direct you whilst depicting the rich history, interesting characters and natural elements of the areas. There are plenty of scenic rest spots along the way, so make sure that you pack a picnic and make a day of it.
The Swan Valley Tours
The Swan Valley has endless attractions and sights to see. So what not take a guided tour so you don't have to worry about a thing. Just like everything else the Swan Valley has this covered.