The tradition of a Sunday drive is one that’s stood the test of time. Chat to any Perth local and they’ll fondly tell you memories of family drives out to the hills for bushland walks, picnics or a parmy and pint at the pub.
Gorgeous scenery, awe-inspiring views and interesting stops are crucial to any good scenic drive, and the Armadale Hills Scenic Drive has all three in spades.
Done on its own the drive will take you just under an hour, but throw in a few attractions plus a stop or two for nourishment and you’ll be easily entertained for a day.
» Download Armadale Hills Scenic Drive map
Start point:
Carradine Road, off Albany Highway
End point:
Albany Highway, Kelmscott
Driving distance:
34kms
Points of interest:
Last Drop Elizabethan
If you’re starting your drive around lunch-time, don’t miss the opportunity to fuel up with a classic pub meal at this Olde English style tavern. Cosy up by the wood-fire in winter or enjoy a day on the green during warmer months. Our tip? Order the Beef and Beer Pie, braised in house ale with flaky puff pastry, this hearty meal has been a local favourite for decades.
Address: 25 Canns Road, Bedfordale
Armadale Settlers Common (East)
Stretch your legs and wander through the wildflowers at Armadale Settlers Common. From Canns Road, make a brief detour onto Observation Circle to walk the Coppice and Jeeriji Trail (download trail map). The 1km loop trail is fully paved and wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy this beautiful walk. Listen out for screech and squawks of Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo’s. They feast on the gumnuts of Jarrah and Marri trees, so if you see a mess of gumnuts and greenery on the path, look up and you may just spot them!
Address: Observation Circle, Bedfordale
Churchman Brook Dam
A picnic lover’s paradise, this dam has it all. Walk trails, free gas BBQ’s, picnic tables, toilets and grassy playing areas for running around. Get back to basics with the family and remember what it is to enjoy the simple things in life.
Address: 96 Churchman Brook Road, Bedfordale
Araluen Botanic Park
Discover the breath-taking beauty of Araluen, 14 hectares of developed gardens surrounded by native Australian bushland. Every season is beautiful at Araluen and there’s always something in bloom, with international and local species grown throughout the Park. Make note, Araluen Botanic Park is currently only open between 9am and 4pm on weekends.
Address: 362 Croyden Road, Roleystone
Naked Apple Cider House
Cheers apple lovers, this one’s for you. Sit back, relax and enjoy the serenity of being surrounded by Naked Apple’s lush gardens as you enjoy a cold pint of handcrafted, naturally fermented and preservative free cider. If you’re the designated driver, don’t worry – the food is so delicious, you won’t be missing out.
Address: 1088 Brookton Highway, Karragullen
Raeburn Orchards
Before you head back down the hill, make a stop at a local orchard and take a taste of the Perth Hills home with you. The Casotti family have been growing fruit in the region for over 70 years and your taste-buds will notice the difference. Pick up stone-fruits in summer, persimmons in autumn and sweet juicy citrus in winter. Visit during spring and you’ll be wowed by pretty pink blossoms as the fruit trees come into flower.
Address: 4 Raeburn Road, Roleystone
