Explore Perth: A Vibrant City from GoTravelDaily

Lonely Planet Destination Editor Jessica Lockhart ventured to Western Australia for the wildflowers but was captivated by Perth’s immersive Indigenous experiences, stunning scenery, and vibrant culinary scene. Here, she shares her week-long adventure and reasons why Perth is a perfect travel destination year-round.

Since relocating to Australia from Canada in 2015, I have explored some of the country’s most remote areas, ranging from the rugged peaks of Flinders Island to the Torres Strait Islands. Yet, I had never visited Perth (Boorloo) until GoTravelDaily invited me for an unforgettable experience.

My visit coincided with Perth’s inaugural EverNow Festival, celebrating the arrival of Kambarang—one of the six seasons in Indigenous Noongar culture. This period, typically from October to November, sees Perth’s coastlines, wetlands, and forests burst into vibrant colors. With approximately 12,000 native flower species, 60% of which are unique to this region, Western Australia boasts one of the world’s largest displays of blooming wildflowers.

Accommodation and Atmosphere

I enjoyed a stay at Warders Hotel, a boutique establishment conveniently located beside the historic Fremantle Markets. Originally built in 1851 as residence for the Fremantle Prison’s Warders, these beautifully preserved limestone cottages feature plush beds, marble bathrooms, contemporary artwork, and even an aperitivo bar. The hotel’s soundproof rooms provide a peaceful respite despite being within walking distance of numerous restaurants and the ferry to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island. I was especially impressed with the in-room sparkling water on tap!

Highlight of the Trip

The terms “ethereal,” “immersive,” and “memorable” may sound cliché, but they perfectly describe the vibrant EverNow Festival. This annual event, held each October, offers an engaging experience with First Nations culture through a carefully curated schedule that includes three key events: SongCircle (a contemporary Indigenous dance performance), Fire Gardens (featuring 7,000 giant candles), and Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak (a journey through Kings Park showcasing digital light projections on trees).

Under-the-Radar Activities

If you can’t attend the EverNow Festival, there are still numerous ways to engage with the Traditional Custodians of the land. For example, every Saturday at 11 AM, Noongar performers present cultural shows outside the WA Museum Boola Bardip for free.

One of my favorite experiences was an art workshop in Kings Park led by Wadjuk man Justin Martin of Djurandi Dreaming. After a brief tour, we engaged in an art session on the grass using traditional Aboriginal artwork techniques. As I painted a fish, Justin shared fascinating stories about his people’s spirit animals, highlighting their cultural significance.

Scenic Highlights

The Pinnacles, located in Nambung National Park, are a 2.5-hour drive north of Perth and a must-see. These incredible limestone structures, believed to be around 30,000 years old, create a surreal landscape. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the desert transforms into a palette of golden hues, offering stunning views before nightfall. For an added adventure, consider pairing your visit with an astrophotography session.

Culinary Delights

Selecting just one culinary delight is a challenge because each dish I enjoyed was exquisite. Dale Tilbrook, a renowned Wardandi Bibbulmun woman and “bush tucker queen,” curated an exceptional tasting experience. Her knowledge of Australia’s native foods is unparalleled, and she has collaborated with local producers, including Old Young’s Distillery for its Six Seasons Gin.

Through a unique tasting session, I sampled ingredients like quandongs and Geraldton wax, showcasing the flavors of Western Australia. I also relished a six-course degustation at Wildflower, a Perth restaurant that highlights foraged native ingredients while aligning its menus with the six Noongar seasons.

Tourist Experiences

While bridge climbs are popular in many cities, Perth offers its own adrenaline rush: scaling the 60,000-seat Optus Stadium, recognized as “the most beautiful stadium in the world.” The experience offers breathtaking views across the city and Swan River, proving to be unforgettable, albeit slightly nerve-wracking for those hesitant about heights. Moreover, it is accessible to wheelchair users and individuals with limited mobility.

Jessica Lockhart explored Perth at the invitation of GoTravelDaily. All opinions are her own.