Windswept peninsulas, ancient forests, secluded bays and breathtaking vistas – the Great Southern region of Western Australia exudes wild romance.

Just a few hours drive south of Perth, this scenic region is the perfect place for loved up newlyweds to unplug and enjoy a few blissful days reconnecting with nature.

Book an Airbnb in the seaside towns of Albany or Denmark and set off to wine, dine and explore!

Discover

From the fury of a surging tide, to the mega power of the southern winds, Albany is all about natural wonders.

Be sure to visit ‘The Gap’, a rugged channel formed by the relentless power of the Southern Ocean. Venture out onto the cantilevered viewing platform and dare to look down to the waves roaring below! Don’t miss the ‘natural bridge’ a little further on – another spectacular ocean-carved artwork.

For fantastic walking trails and a truly eco experience, take a trip to the Albany Wind Farm. Arguably one of the world’s most picturesque power stations, you will soon discover the wind farm is perfectly positioned – so hold onto your hat! Poised around 80 metres above sea level, the twelve turbines have a commanding view of the Southern Ocean, and are particularly striking when viewed in the morning or at sunset. Grab your love’s hand and follow one of the scenic trails – you will be absolutely captivated by this jaw-dropping location!

A favourite with locals and blow-ins alike, Greens Pool is the emerald gem in Denmark’s crown. Punctuated with striking boulders and fringed by a sweeping headland, this protected swimming spot is ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing and snorkelling.

After a refreshing dip, wander over to the aptly named Elephant Rocks within Elephant Cove. This intimate cove is the perfect place to unwind and recharge with your love. Tuck into a beach novel and enjoy whiling away a few hours in your own piece of paradise.

The Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk is another must-do on your Great Southern sojourn. Hit the road early and journey to neighbouring town Walpole to walk through towering forests and see the trees from above. Once you’ve completed the 600 metre tree top walk, return to ground level and discover the Ancient Empire – a stunning forest trail of 400-year-old tingle trees.

Drink

With an ever growing inventory of distilleries, wineries, breweries and drinking holes, the Great Southern region is the perfect place to enjoy a celebratory beverage or two!

If you or your love is partial to a stiff drink, head to Limeburners distillery to sample an impressive line-up of hand crafted Australian whisky, vodka and gin, plus other spirits and liqueurs. While you’re here, be sure to try the Karri Honey Whisky Liqueur – a small batch malt whisky infused with luscious honey and aromatic spices. Even if you’re not normally a whisky drinker, you’re bound to love this intoxicating tipple.

For a leisurely afternoon in the sunshine, settle in at the Boston Brewing Co and order a tasting paddle to test the best of the brews. Here you can also sample Willoughby Park wines at the cellar door and graze on share plates, burgers, slow cooked meats and more!

Adventurous wine drinkers should put Yilgarnia Wines on the ‘to drink’ list – but be prepared to deviate off the beaten track to find it. This small family owned vineyard makes a variety of white and red wines, handcrafted ‘method champenoise’ sparkling red, white and pink wines, and the very first estate grown Denmark Port – a must try. Tucked off the side of a gravel road in the midst of the Denmark region, Yilgarnia Wines is a true hidden gem and you will find it difficult to depart without a few purchases!

For your honeymoon caffeine hit, stop by the Naked Bean Coffee Roasters and be wooed by that ‘just roasted’ aroma as soon as you enter the door! This Albany mainstay has been sourcing the best beans from around the globe for more than 15 years and roasting them onsite to create their own signature blends. While you’re here, pop into the adjoining store – a treasure trove of covetable gadgets and accessories for the caffeine connoisseur.

Dine

Garrison is a gorgeous all-day dining option perched on the crest of Mt Clarence, Albany. This café-bar-restaurant is located next to the outstanding National Anzac Centre (another must-do), and is furnished with a distinctive nod to Australian wartime history. Pop in for a leisurely brunch (don’t miss the maple bacon banana bread!), stop by for sunset drinks or enjoy an intimate dinner during the summer months.

Surrounded by sprawling gardens, The Lakehouse is a charming winery just a few minutes out of Denmark. After sampling the varieties at the cellar door, enjoy a leisurely ploughman’s style lunch on the lakeside deck or picnic rug! Choose from a menu of delicious platters brimming with local produce including house-made relishes, chutneys and pickles – the perfect alfresco fare.

All images by Anika Reynolds

Ms Chinoiserie Says: A swim at Elephant Rocks followed by a walk through the tree tops – what could be more romantic! 

About Anika: I’m a freelance writer with a love of weddings and creatively styled events. I have a penchant for pretty stationery and perfectly put together cheese plates, and a never-ending sense of wanderlust!