Among the Giants: Western Australia's Southern Forests

Just a few hours south of Perth lies a region that feels like a completely different world, the Southern Forests. It's a place where towering forests, fresh local produce, and charming country towns create an unforgettable escape from city life.

The Southern Forests region lies between Manjimup and Walpole in WA's South West. It is home to the Manjimup and Pemberton wine regions, as well as over 50 different types of fruit and vegetables, plus truffles, nuts, beef, and sheep and dairy farms. 

It's a great place to enjoy delicious local produce, explore stunning landscapes, and immerse yourself in nature.

One of the biggest advantages of studying in Perth is how accessible these unique experiences are. The Southern Forests region is just a 3-4 hour drive from Perth, the ideal road trip with friends. 

The Southern Forests Region

The Southern Forests region is home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. In Walpole-Nornalup National Park, you'll find the famous Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, a suspended walkway that lets you stroll high above ancient tingle trees. Closer to the town of Pemberton, you can explore karri forests, climb historic fire lookout trees, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of nature.

Beyond its forests, it is also known as one of Western Australia's "food bowls". The rich soil and cool climate make it ideal for growing fresh produce, from crisp apples to truffles and wine. In Manjimup, the annual Cherry Harmony Festival attracts visitors from across the country, celebrating the region's agricultural richness. Near Donnybrook, known as the "Apple Capital" of WA, fruit farms provide the opportunity to taste fruit straight from the source, a simple but memorable experience.

One of the most special parts of the Southern Forests is its welcoming community feel. Towns like Bridgetown are filled with cosy cafés, boutique shops, and scenic river walks. These towns offer a slower pace of life, making them perfect for weekend getaways or short breaks between study periods. For international students, it's an opportunity to experience a different side of Australian culture, one that's relaxed and deeply connected to nature.

Manjimup

• Time from Perth city: approx 3.5 hours by car
• Highlights: annual Cherry Harmony Festival

Known as the food heart of the region, Manjimup is a must-visit for anyone who loves fresh, local produce. This area is known for its black truffle industry - the most successful in Australia, as well as its vibrant orchards and cool-climate wines.

Events like the Cherry Harmony Festival draw visitors from across Australia, but even outside festival season, students can enjoy farm gate experience, cosy cafés, and a true paddock-to-plate food culture. It's the perfect place for a weekend of indulgence and exploration with friends. 

Pemberton

• Time from Perth city: approx 3.5 hours by car
• Highlights: Bicentennial Tree

Further south is Pemberton. Here, the forest is more established, with many karri trees well over 300 years old. Students can climb historic fire lookout trees, walk through dense forest trails, or enjoy peaceful picnics by the river. It's a place to slow down, unplug, and recharge - perfect for students during a busy semester. The natural beauty here feels a world away from the city, yet it's easily accessible for a short getaway.

The well-known Gloucester Tree, where visitors could climb 61m to the top platform, is currently closed for maintenance. However, the stunning Bicentennial Tree is open in Warren National Park, where visitors can climb 20m above the forest floor.

These lookout trees were created between 1937 and 1952, and were used as fire lookouts before the introduction of spotter planes. From the top of these lookouts, foresters used to scam the landscape around them for the first signs of smoke. 

Northcliffe

• Time from Perth city: approx 4 hours by car
• Highlights: Bibbulmun Track - hiking, photography

For those seeking something a little more off the beaten path, Northcliffe delivers an authentic Australian experience. Known for its artistic community and proximity to national parks, Northcliffe is an ideal stop for students who enjoy hiking, photography, or simply immersing themselves in nature. The town's quiet charm makes it feel like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. 

Walpole

• Time from Perth city: approx 4.5 hours by car
• Highlights: Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk

Further south, Walpole is home to some of the region's most unique natural attractions. In the nearby Walpole-Noranlup National Park, students can experience the incredible Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk - a suspended walkway high among ancient tingle trees. With its coastal inlets, forest landscapes, and fresh sea air, Walpole offers a mix of adventure and tranquility.

The Blackwood River

Flowing gently through the region, the Blackwood River is the ribbon that ties these towns together. It's the perfect setting for kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. Towns like Bridgetown sit along its banks, offering scenic spots for picnic and weekend escapes. And with the Bibbulmum Track hiking trail and Munda Biddi off-road cycling trail also winding through the region, it's an adventure-seeker's wonderland.

Staying in the Southern Forests region

If you're planning a trip to the region, you can find a wide range of accommodation to suit every style and budget - from camping and Airbnb's to cosy motels and full-service resorts. 

For those who love the outdoors, camping is one of the best ways to experience the Southern Forests. Pitch your tent among the towering karri trees in Warren National Park, unwind beside a peaceful stream at Carey Brook, or stay close to the coast at Black Point. Campgrounds are open year-round, though winter can be quite wet. Summer, on the other hand, is perfect for a cooler escape from the Perth heat. Keep in mind that popular sites can fill up quickly during long weekends and school holidays, so it's worth planning ahead for these busy periods. Click here for a list of campgrounds in the Southern Forests region.

If camping isn't your style, there are plenty of comfortable alternatives, including charming cottages, boutique bed and breakfasts, and well-equipped motels. Click here for a list of the available spots in the region.

One standout option is RAC Karri Valley Resort, set on the edge of the serene Lake Beedelup. This peaceful retreat offers something for everyone, whether you're after an active getaway or a romantic escape. Guests can enjoy a range of free activities like the nature playground, basketball and tennis courts, and a BMX track, while additional experiences include mini golf, disc golf, an animal farm, and canoe or kayak hire. With both cabins and campsites available, it's an easy choice for travellers of all kinds. 

In this small pocket of Western Australia, the Southern Forests region is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and charming small towns - a world away from the everyday.

Images supplied by Tourism Western Australia.