Western Australia is home to more than 12,000 species of wildflowers with more than 60 per cent of these found nowhere else on earth. They bring a spectacle of colour and scent that needs to be experienced to be believed.
Weather greatly influences the timing of the wildflower season, causing it to span over several months and regions. Generally, wildflowers will begin to appear in June in the north of the State, extending through to November in the south.
Journey north from Perth to experience a sensational show if wildflowers set amongst the vast landscape. Travel the Indian Ocean Drive towards the white sands and crystal waters of Geraldton, to the breathtakingly high coastal cliffs of Kalbarri.
Kalbarri National Park
Kalbarri National Park is located at the mouth of the Murchison River. It covers and area of cover 180,000 hectares and includes breath-taking coastal cliffs and dazzling wildflower displays. Explore the depths and heights of the river gorges and sea cliffs and admire the floral beauty of the rolling sand plains. Magnificent wildflowers set the landscape ablaze with River gums, gold and orange Banksia, Grevillea, Kangaroo Paw, Featherflower, Starflower, Smoke bush and Eucalyptus.
After good winter rains, wildflowers are prolific and spread for hundreds of kilometres with spectacular Everlastings and Golden Billy Buttons to name a few.
Located near Geraldton is the Hutt Lagoon which is a striking pink colour thanks to algae that live in the water, Dunaliella salina. When exposed to sunlight, the algae produces beta-carotene, the red pigment found in carrots and other vegies.
The lagoon covers a whopping 70 square kilometres, tends to be at its pinkest in the mornings, and changes character according to the weather and the seasons.
Nambung National Park
Another highlight along the Indian Ocean Drive is the Pinnacles Desert of Nambung National Park. The park is located roughly 200km, or 2 hours’ drive north of Perth. It covers an area of 17,487 hectares providing natural habitat for an extensive array of native animals and bird life.
The lunar-like Pinnacles are amazing natural limestone structures. Formed approximately 25,000 to 30,000 years ago after the sea receded and left deposits of seashells. Over time, coastal winds removed the surrounding sand, leaving the pillars exposed to the elements. The Pinnacles range in height and dimension – some stand as high as 3.5m!
INTERESTED? GrownUps Holidays travel partner AAT Kings offers a range of guided holidays that explore Western Australia and beyond. AAT Kings’ 7 day Wildflower Wanderer tour explores the ultimate showcase of Western Australia’s famous wildflowers and discover the idyllic coastal town of Geraldton. For more information and to book this trip contact GrownUps Holidays on 0800 842 685 today.