48 hours in ...
48 hours in the . . .
DONNYBROOKBALINGUP REGION Think picture-perfect historic towns surrounded by rolling hills, fertile farmland and orchards. The Donnybrook-Balingup region, set in the picturesque Preston and Blackwood valleys, is WA’s must-do destination any time of the year. DAY ONE Perth to Donnybrook Jump in the car and get ready for two days of Donnybrook-Balingup seasonal goodness. Allow three hours to reach Balingup from Perth. If by chance you find yourself in the tiny town of Kirup, we suggest you stock up on the best produce in WA. For starters, the pub has new owners and is up and running, offering home-cooked meals. There’s A2 Bulk Foods, a fabulous little store with great organic/gluten-free and health food options and snacks. Newy’s Vege Patch, 16
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an organic fruit and veg shop, has built up a cult following. Ten minutes down the road, on the way to Balingup, there’s Blackwood Emporium 1864, a cafe and chocolate shop in Mullalyup. Where to Stay Balingup takes its name from Balingup Pool, located on the Balingup Brook which flows through the town. Check into Tourism Hall of Fame winner, Balingup Heights Hilltop Forest Cottages, where you will wake up to stunning views. Kids will love the chance to collect eggs and feed the animals on this wonderful hillside spot. Heritage lovers should venture to the Blackwood Inn in Mullalyup or find secluded luxury at Mumbles Boutique Stays near Donnybrook. To truly reconnect, attend a Mindfulness and Meditation Retreat at Balingup’s Origin Centre. Fans of the great outdoors can camp around a log fire at Glen Mervyn Dam, or along the Blackwood River at Wrights Bridge. Pie Time It’s impossible to name an Aussie who doesn’t love pie, especially in the cooler months. Savour some of the best at The Mushroom at No 61. Winner of a plethora of national Great Aussie Pie medals, their visitbunburygeographe.com.au