Exploring Western Australia’s Great Southern Region
Nestled in the heart of Western Australia’s Great Southern region is Kojonup, a 3 hour drive southeast of Perth, or just over 1 hour northwest of Albany. Surrounded by breath-taking national parks and immense state forests, Kojonup is a town full of history – well worth including in a road trip full of adventure.
Whether you want to remain near town or go on adventurous day trips, the team here at Cornwall House Accommodation has you covered with our list of Instagram-worthy travel destinations around the area:
1. Dryandra Woodland Forest
Western Australia’s newest national park opened in January 2022 and features two class A nature reserves to help ensure the protection of some of our most vulnerable wildlife. Dryandra Woodland National Park offers you the amazing opportunity to encounter numbats, woylies, brushtail wallabies, chuditches, quendas and malleefowl along one of the numerous walking trails ranging from 1km to 12.5km.
Just under an hour forty-five minutes away, Dryandra Woodland Forest is a must-see for any nature lover! There’s even a campground for those much-needed bathroom breaks.
2. Gnomesville
Two hours west of Kojonup is Gnomesville, a city of gnomes. Depending on your opinion of gnomes, this will either be the coolest gnome paradise you’ve ever seen or the creepiest place you’ve visited!
With thousands of gnomes throughout the woods, you’ll never feel alone as you explore their fascinating community. It is unknown how Gnomesville began and like any great story there are multiple beginnings all leading us to a community of magical creatures living freely as the gatekeepers for Ferguson Valley, Western Australia.
Gnome additions are welcome whether you bring your own or buy one from the store, just make sure to include where your little buddy is from so that they can properly introduce themselves to the other 10,000 plus residents.
3. The Kodja Place
If you’re a fan of roses, then you will want to visit in November when the Australian Rose Maze is at its most spectacular. If you can’t make it then, there are always some flowers blooming from October through June and you can still enjoy the beauty of the maze and history of The Kodja Place.
While you’re here be sure to check out the Kodja Gallery and get a coffee and tasty treat from Black Cockatoo Cafe. Don’t forget to take lots of photos in the maze and keep your eyes out for the plaques telling the story of three women; Yoondi the Noongar, Elizabeth the English settler, and Maria the Italian migrant.
4. Sterling Range National Park
Dust off those hiking boots and grab your gear! We’re going to Western Australia’s very own Stirling Range National Park to take in the brooding beauty of the mountains, its unique and diverse wildflowers, and if you’re up to it let’s take on the challenge of climbing Bluff Knoll. We promise it’s worth the 90-minute trip.
Sterling Range National Park has the only major mountain range within the southern half of Western Australia. Its rugged peaks rising over 1000m above sea level, feature stark cliff faces, sheltered gullies, magnificent views, and a rich diversity of unique and colourful wildflowers. The park is one of the world’s most important areas for flora with 1,500 species, many unique to the region, packed within its boundaries.
5. Honeymoon Pool
Just over two hours away in Worsley is the Honeymoon Pool, a great spot for a swim to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Located in the Wellington National Park, the pool is one of the best-known swimming and camping spots in Western Australia and has been voted amongst Australia’s finest repeatedly. With twenty shady campsites nestled amongst the weeping peppermint trees, this is a great spot for a picnic or getaway.
If you’re not up for a swim, kayaking is a common pastime along the campground stretch of the river. However, if you want more of a thrill just head upstream to play in the rapids. There are plenty of spots along the river to choose from for a swim from The Rapids, Big Rock, Little Rock, and Long Pool.
6. Barrabup Pool
A few minutes outside of Nannup and just over 2 hours away from Kojonup is a naturally formed watering hole known as Barrabup Pool. Surrounded by tall native trees, the pool’s tranquil waters are a peaceful location to unwind and relax.
Be sure to take a hike through the bush before cooling down and see the stunning wildlife and beautiful native wildflowers. Feel free to fish for your lunch or dinner and take advantage of the shaded BBQs and picnic facilities to make the most out of the day’s adventure.
7. Myrtle Benn Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
Flower lovers listen up! Nestled in the heart of Kojonup is Myrtle Benn Flora and Fauna Sanctuary – a stunning nature reserve full of beautiful flowers including a massive collection of native orchids. If your Instagram feed is full of flowers, this is one location you will not want to miss out on! Myrtle Benn was a local schoolteacher in the mid-20th century who started and tendered the flora and fauna sanctuary. You can come in the spring to see all the wildflowers in bloom.
From spider orchids to metal sculptures there’s something new to see around every corner. Keep your eyes open to find the tiny orchids and don’t forget to look up into the trees to find critters taking a nap.
Stay with us at Cornwall House Accommodation
Whether you’re in Kojonup for a night or a while we welcome you to come stay with us at Cornwall House Accommodation. For more information, call us today on (08)98310214or email us at stay@cornwallhouseaccommodation.com.au. Alternatively, book online by clicking here for our secure booking page. We look forward to welcoming you and your family as you explore our beautiful town!