Swan Valley

Western Australia's oldest winemaking area, just 25 minutes from the city. A 32 km loop links more than 40 wineries, craft breweries, a chocolate factory, and Caversham Wildlife Park.

The Swan Valley lies about 25 km northeast of Perth, upstream on the Swan River. Colonists planted grapes here in 1829, making it Western Australia's oldest wine region. It is known for sherry, Verdelho, and fortified wines, and it is also Perth residents' go-to spot for food and drink on weekends. Along the 32 km 'Swan Valley Food & Wine Trail' loop (West Swan Road and Great Northern Highway) are more than 40 wineries. Sandalford and Houghton are the two largest, with restaurants and tours; small family wineries often offer free tastings or tastings for 5 to 10 AUD. There are also craft breweries such as Feral and Mash, the Margaret River Chocolate Company (free samples), House of Honey, a farm selling honey, nuts, and olive oil, a weekend farmers' market, and natural eco-tea estates such as Whistler's. There is also the historic town of Guildford, with colonial-era buildings and antique shops. The top choice for families is Caversham Wildlife Park in Whiteman Park, where you can pose with koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and see wombats. Adult admission is about 35 AUD. How to go: drive for half a day to a full day (with a designated non-drinking driver), or join a tour from the city, or take a river cruise along the Swan River (about 4 hours, including lunch) upstream to the wineries. Transport: drive, or take a train to Bassendean or Midland station and transfer to a bus. Public transport is inconvenient, so booking a tour or driving is recommended. Notes: Australia's drink-driving limit is 0.05, so always arrange a driver. Most wineries open 10:00 to 17:00, and some close on Mondays and Tuesdays. In summer, when temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius, set out early. Keep within customs limits when bringing wine home.

Swan Valley

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