Unique sights to see en route to Esperance...and avoid the Summer crowds!
Esperance is a go-to destination for many Perthites, especially over the summer holidays. It’s not hard to see why - the beaches are world-class, the town has a burgeoning foodie scene and there are some epic camping spots to get back to nature. The drive to Esperance from Perth is quite the feat- 9 hours of driving in fact, and whilst the iconic destination is worth the drive, it can be a lot to handle all at once.
We’ve rounded up our favourite things to do along the way to break up the drive with some unique and interesting spots. The best thing? They’re a little off the beaten track, so you can avoid the summer crowds along the way!
Kalamunda History Village
Want to start the fun as soon as you leave Perth? Head out via the hills and stop at the Kalamunda History Village. This place champions the industries of timber milling, fruit orchards, quarrying and transportation from years gone by to provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the hills. For a colourful break, don’t miss Araluen Botanical Gardens, the oldest gardens in the area, featuring vibrant displays of native and cottage blooms that flourish in the region's rich, loamy soils. Take a stroll through the gardens before hitting the road again!
Jarrahdale Heritage Society
Housed in a historic post office that served the community for 76 years, the Jarrahdale Heritage Society offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s timber milling past. Inside, you’ll find a gift shop, an audio history corner, and even local ghost stories! Chat with a volunteer to uncover the best walking trails nearby, where you can marvel at the towering jarrah trees and learn how to reach the famous Munda Biddi trail. A 10-minute drive from the little township of Jarrahdale is the Bistro by the Dam, a restaurant overlooking the Serpentine Dam. It's tranquil and calming, nestled amongst the natural vegetation - including the jarrah trees - the perfect place for a bite.
Pingelly Museum and Historical Group
Just two hours from Perth, en route to Esperance, you will find the quaint Southern Wheatbelt town of Pingelly. Known for its sheep farming and sandalwood cutting era, the Pingelly Museum and Historical Group is located in the classic town hall. It displays the history of country life in the area from days gone-by.
Lake Grace Inland Mission Hospital Museum
Did you know only three Australian Inland Mission (AIM) Hospitals remain in Australia? Located in Lake Grace, this one offers a rare glimpse into early medical services in the vast outback. In the early 1900s, these types of hospitals provided crucial care across massive areas—this one alone served a 16,000-square-kilometre region! Learn about how religious organisations like AIM, along with pioneers like John Flynn (known as "Flynn of the Inland" or "Flynn of the Outback"), helped fund these essential services. Flynn was instrumental in founding the Royal Flying Doctor Service and other medical initiatives across Australia. After exploring the old hospital, head to Roma and Kay on the main street of Lake Grace for a coffee and muffin, or choose from their full breakfast and lunch menu.
Ravensthorpe Museum and Visitor Centre
Once you hit Ravy you’re almost there, but it’s definitely worth a stop at the Ravensthorpe Museum and Visitor Centre. This charming cottage with a quaint wrap-around verandah is packed to the brim with a collection of mining and farming memorabilia alongside stories from local personalities who made Ravensthorpe what it is today. You also have the chance to sit in the historic railway carriages and immerse yourself in what it was like to be around during those times. Top tip: make sure you find the huge grain silo, adorned with art thanks to the FORM PUBLIC Silo Trail!
Esperance Museum, Esperance Mechanical Restoration Group, & Aunt Joan’s Dolly Mix
You’ve arrived in Esperance! Whilst we’re sure you’re keen to hit the beaches, if you’re keen to find out more about the town and its history, be sure to pop in to the Esperance Museum. This place is huge, having one of the biggest collections outside of Perth, and covers many industries such as railway, agricultural, flora & fauna and also those with a maritime twist!
The Esperance Mechanical Restoration Group all started when a group of men got together several times a year and shared their treasured collections. Now, the group has expanded and propelled, having collected sheds full of vehicles, machines and more obscure things such as ceramics and matchboxes! It’s worth a visit if you have a little rev head in your life!
On the other side of the spectrum, you can find the ultra-quirky and kitsch collection at Aunt Joan’s Dolly Mix! Described as “like walking backstage into an opulent dressing room, a cornucopia of swagged satin and velvet” - this is by far the most unique of the mix. There are over 1000 beautiful dolls of all sorts, collected by the late Joan Stewart on display here.
They often say it's the journey that matters, not the destination and this is so true of your road trip down to beautiful Esperance! It’s time to pack up your gear into the car and get exploring! Don’t forget to use our dedicated itinerary planner to find more unique spots and plan your dream road trip.
