When was the last time you visited Pemberton? If it was more than a couple of years ago, then you may not be aware of just how much this quaint country town and its surroundings have changed – for the better.
When was the last time you visited Pemberton? If it was more than a couple of years ago, then you may not be aware of just how much this quaint country town and its surroundings have changed – for the better.
Located amid magnificent karri forests and national parks, crystal clear rivers and lakes, Pemberton’s natural assets are undeniable. The fresh forest air, the sense of pleasant isolation and the atmosphere of peace and quiet haven’t changed at all.
It still has a relaxed rural atmosphere and the locals continue to maintain their friendly, laid-back approach to tourists. But the standards of accommodation, eating establishments and tourist attractions have all gone up a considerable notch.
Late autumn, winter and early spring are arguably the best times to visit as the rains bring the foliage to life and swell the rivers; but really a visit here at any time is worthwhile.
Here are what we consider the best places to stay, the best restaurants/ cafes and the not-to-miss attractions to consider when planning a trip to this region.
Where to stay
Beedelup House Cottages
Their Hansel and Gretel cottages are cleverly built of rough-hewn rocks and jarrah with beautiful views of the dense karri forest and Beedelup Lake in the distance at the bottom of the valley. This is a really special, rustically beautiful place to stay and is situated about 17 kilometres from the townsite. Phone: 9776 2010.
Marima Cottages
Located in an isolated section of the lovely Warren National Park, the cottages blend in perfectly with their wilderness environment and allow guests to fully appreciate the timber-dominated surroundings. Peaceful, rustic and cosy. Phone: 9776 1211.
Peppermint Grove Retreat
These neat, modern chalets with big wooden decks extending out towards the forest are nestled among peppermint trees on an attractive rural property. An adults-only retreat, the facilities are comfortable and contemporary. Phone: 9776 0056.
Salitage Suites
Perched on the side of a wooded hill adjacent to the well-known Salitage Winery, every aspect of the self-catering adults-only chalets is a celebration of their forest environment. They are surrounded by Australian stringy bark trees and look out over the vineyard, rolling hills and jarrah, karri and marri forests lining the perimeter of the property. Top quality and convenient. Phone: 9766 1195.
Warren River Resort
Nestled cosily within a 17-hectare plot of lush karri forest adjoining the Brockman National Park only a few kilometres from town, each chalet is discreetly positioned to allow complete privacy and secluded outlooks towards the towering forest and the wildlife inhabiting it. Phone: 9776 1400.
Where to eat
Coffee Connection
Located at the Fine Woodcraft Gallery in Dickenson Street, Coffee Connection offers the finest coffee and handmade sweets and cakes plus light lunches in a tranquil garden setting. Open seven days from 10am to 4pm. Phone: 9776 0203.
Gloucester Ridge Winery and Restaurant
On Burma Road, this superb restaurant and winery feature an attractive glass conservatory and a delicious a la carte menu in a lovely setting overlooking vineyards. Open daily from 10am to 5pm and Friday, Saturday and Sunday until late. Phone: 9776 1035.
Hidden River Estate and Café
Situated on Mullineaux Road not far from town, premium boutique wines are served with a vineyard plate, a gourmet platter or pasta. Delicious desserts and coffees are also available. Open every day from 9am to 4pm. Phone: 9776 1437.
King Trout and Marron Farm
Try your hand at fly fishing or just relax and enjoy a delicious lunch in this attractive setting located on Northcliffe Road close to town. Open six days between 9.30am and 5pm. Phone: 9776 1352.
Phillips Estate
Contemporary dining in attractive premises or outside on decking with a stunning outlook over the lake. Sample the wines as well. Open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10.30am to 4pm. Phone: 9776 0381.
Silver Birch Restaurant
Located in the Karri Forest Motel right in town, this licensed restaurant offers tasty local produce at affordable prices. Open seven days a week from 6.30pm. Phone: 9776 1019.
Must see, must do
Wine tasting
Lost Lake Winery
Vasse Highway,11km north of town. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Phone: 9776 1251.
Mountford Winery and Cidery
On Bamess Road and open daily between 10am and 4pm. Phone: 9776 1345.
Salitage Winery
Off Vasse Highway, 10km east of town, open seven days between 10am and 4pm. Phone: 9776 1771.
Treen Ridge Estate Vineyard
On Packer Road, 10km from Pemberton, open Wednesday to Friday from 11am to 5pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Phone: 9776 1131.
The Warren Vineyard
On Conte Road, open daily from 11am. Phone: 9776 1115.
Wood Smoke Estate and Jarrah Jacks Brewery
On Kemp Road, open daily between 10.30am and 4pm. Phone: 9776 0225.
Art and Craft Browsing
Alex Bond Gallery
Showcase of his stunning photography at the Pemberton Wine Centre on Old Vasse Road, 14km from Pemberton. Phone: 9776 1811.
Fine Woodcraft Gallery
Stunning gallery full of local art, craft and furniture that will inspire you. Open seven days between 9am and 5pm on Dickinson Street in Pemberton. Phone: 9776 1399.
The Peter Kovacsy Studio
Features an impressive exhibition of glass and woodcraft. Open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm at 10 Jamieson Street Pemberton. Phone: 9776 1265.
Tree climbing
Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree
Located in the Warren National Park just off Old Vasse Road, this is a great climb for the foolhardy to the lookout tower 75 metres high.
Gloucester Tree
Off Burma Rd near Pemberton, this tree-mounted fire lookout is 61 metres high and courageous visitors can climb the ladder along the trunk of the Gloucester Tree to the lookout for great views.
Touring
Pemberton Discovery Tours
A number of exciting tour options are offered to remote beaches and forests as well as the isolated Yeagarup Dunes. Pemberton Winery Tour is also available so you can relax and enjoy your wine without worrying about the drive home. Phone: 9776 0484.
The Pemberton Tramway
A number of tram and steam train rides leave from the Pemberton Railway Station and last between one hour and 5.5 hours. Phone: 9776 1332.
Pemberton Hiking and Canoeing
Guided canoeing tours of the area. Tours may be half day, full day or overnight and can be combined with a hike or sunset walk. Phone: 9776 1559.
