Spring into the Valley
When you think of Western Australia’s oldest wine region, what comes up? Perhaps it’s the Margaret River Region. The first vines were planted in the Swan Valley, on Perth’s doorstep way back in 1829. Then, Western Australia’s first Surveyor-General, John Septimus Roe planted vines at Sandalford on the banks of the Swan in the 1840s. That early settlement winemaking heritage continues today, and the regions heroes the Chenin Blanc, Verdelho and Shiraz grape variety.
Friday…
The Colony
Check into the Colony at Mandoon Estate, 30 minutes from Perth. If you get there before 5pm, pop over to the cellar door and grab a bottle to sit on the balcony and fast track your relaxation. Sitting on a balcony, listening to the crickets in the bush with a glass of wine.
Wander over to the Homestead Brewery for a pizza or burger.
Saturday…
Wake up to the sounds of the bush. Grab your breakfast hamper and have it on the banks of the Swan River.
Cycle:
Take you bikes if you like to cycle around the area on the Swan Valley Heritage Cycle Trail.
Walk:
Syd’s Rapids Walk Trail
For serious walkers, Walyunga National Park is less than 30 minutes away with all different walk trail grades; Syd’s Rapids or Echidna Trail
The Swan Valley is all about wine but the Swan Valley Cider and Ale Trail celebrates the regions craft beers and ciders.
Lunch options are numerous on a Saturday in the valley. Agfg.com.au/restaurants/swan-valley
Dinner is more limited to Wild Swan and Homestead Brewery at Mandoon Estate
Sunday…
Sleep in and check out. Head to Guildford, 10 minutes away for brunch / early lunch, while immersing yourselves in the heritage of this early Perth suburb. The Guildford Antique strip is a great place to find a bargain.
The Guildford Hotel has a unique story of partially burning down, local protests to keep it and its renovation.
Swan Street is a hub of cafes and the Rose and Crown, the oldest operating hotel in Western Australia.
The Swan Valley Visitor Centre has the heritage walk trail maps, so you can wander around the historical streets.
Sweet Temptations
On the way home, follow the Sweet Temptations Trail to find honey, nougat and French delicacies.
