Western Australia

Western Australia is the giant of Australian states, occupying about one-third of the continent. Its vast coastline takes in the remote Kimberley in the north, the iron 'shoulder' of the Pilbara, and runs past the Ningaloo coral reef, Shark Bay, the Houtman Abrolhos Islands and Perth's sandy plain. After turning east at the rocky capes of the south-west, it takes in granite shores facing the wild Southern Ocean and the limestone cliffs of the Great Australian Bight.

Perth, Western Australia's capital, is a modern city situated on the Swan River within easy reach of ocean beaches and the forested Darling Ranges. The city is a tourist attraction in its own right and, with its port of Fremantle, is the gateway to the state. In the south of the state, visitors seek out the famous wildflower displays, the majestic karri forests, the Stirling and Porongurup ranges, the inland goldfields and the coastal national parks. Further north, many are drawn to the Pinnacle Desert, Geraldton's wildflowers, Batavia Coast and the natural wonders of the Shark Bay World-Heritage area, the Ningaloo Reef, the Pilbara's iron ranges, and to Broome and the Kimberley.

Touring this vast state with its multitude of outstanding attractions requires planning and time. The south-west area around Perth is relatively easy to get around by car, with a network of good roads and accessible features. The rest of Western Australia has fewer road options. Flying to different parts of the state can cut out some long drives, but despite the daunting distances touring by car is a rewarding experience. A 4WD vehicle is essential for touring in the Kimberleys or the desert tracks of the state's centre, such as the Canning Stock Route and the Gunbarrel Hwy.

Travel to Western Australia to experience: the Kimberley, Mid West, Heartlands, Gascoyne - Outback Coast, Pilbara, Great Southern, Goldfields, Peel, Perth and Fremantle, South West and Esperance.