Swan Valley
The Swan Valley is about 16 kilometres east of Perth, which translates to a 20 or 30 minute drive from the city.
The Swan Valley is possibly Western Australia's most underrated wine growing region. The wineries and scenery rival the regions to the south, without the necessity for a lengthy drive.
Once you arrive in Guildford, you will find the roads are well sign posted to enable a leisurely drive from winery to winery. If you would prefer someone else to do the driving (which is wise, if you plan to "sample" the wines!) there are frequent buses and trains to Guildford and from there you can link up with a tour. Call the WA Tourist Centre for more information. Alternatively, Boat Torque runs boat cruises up the river to the Swan Valley most days. The cruise includes tourist information on the history and character of the river, and wine tasting on the boat before and after lunch at one of the larger wineries or other establishments.
Many of the wineries feature restaurants within the winery. For most people this provides the perfect gustatory excuse to stay the day! Most of the wineries produce red and white wine, and the Swan Valley is especially known for its fortified wines, or "stickies", produced with help from the hot Perth Summer. If you like to indulge in the culinary culture, there are world class restaurants within a short distance of the Swan Valley, including "Dear Friends" in Caversham and the lauded "The Loose Box" in Mundaring. On top of the wineries, the region offers wildlife and historical parks, bushland, arts and crafts, and breathtakingly beautiful scenery in the wild flower season. If you fancy a spot of golf between the wine tastings, don't miss "The Vines Resort". The Vines offers hotel facilities, as well as longer term time share accommodation.
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