A Road Trip from Albany to Esperance: Travel Guide

Whether you want to explore with your significant other or pack up Gran and the kiddos for a family road trip, Western Australia is a treasure trove of natural wonders, terrific beaches, and friendly people.

There are many popular road trip itineraries. However, if you want to experience some of Western Australia’s exquisite natural and cultural treasures, hop on National Route 1 and travel from Albany to Esperance. You will enjoy a journey that will stay with you for a lifetime.

 

Albany to Esperance Road Trip Highlights

Your drive from Albany to Esperance is about 500 km, a five-hour trip if you head straight through. However, you will miss some exceptional sites if you rush the drive. Plan to enjoy your journey and take the time to check out some (or all) of these highlights along the southern coastline and make the most of your adventure.

 

1. Porongurup National Park

Location: 50 km from Albany

Highlights:

• Castle Rock – One of the many unique granite formations found in the park, Castle Rock dates back to the Jurassic Period at approximately 1,100 million years old. It is a popular hiking destination. The trail is a 4.4 km return and takes between 2 and 3 hours to finish.

• Granite Skywalk – Wrapping around Castle Rock, it is a suspended walkway that rewards those who conquer it with epic views of breathtaking scenery. The walkway is 670m above sea level. Reaching the upper level of the skywalk involves climbing over rocky areas, granite boulders, and finally, a climb up a caged ladder.

• Wildlife – You can see numerous local animals in the park, including brushtail wallabies, bandicoots, brushtail possums, honey possums, pygmy possums, and western grey kangaroos.

 

2. Stirling Range National Park

Location: 80 km from Albany

Highlights:

• Flora Diversity – The park boasts more than 1,500 species of plants; many are rare or unique to the area. Only Fitzgerald River National Park is home to more plant species, over 1,800 types.

• Scenic Drive – Visitors enjoy magnificent views during the 42 km drive through the park. Picnic spots and lookout points are scattered along the drive.

• Bluff Knoll –  An absolute must-do for devoted hikers, Bluff Knoll is the highest peak in the southwestern region of Western Australia. The moderate to challenging trail gains around 600 meters of elevation and is a 6 km return trail. Hikers should prepare for the trek and bring snacks and plenty of water. Pay close attention to the weather; the trail can be dangerous and slippery during rain.

 

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3. Bremer Bay

Location: 180 km from Albany

Highlights:

• Bremer Canyon – Teeming with a variety of marine life, Bremer Canyon is an ideal spot to see orca whales. Chartered tours are offered from January through April, providing a closer look at the impressive creatures.

• Bremer Bay Beaches – The local beaches are famously pristine and the perfect locations for swimming and snorkelling. During the summer, conditions are right for exceptional surfing.

• Wellstead Museum – History buffs will enjoy visiting the Wellstead Museum in the original Wellstead homestead, built in 1850.

 

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4. Fitzgerald River National Park

Location: 210 km from Albany

Highlights:

• Biological Diversity – The area is one of the most diverse botanical regions on earth and is home to more than 1,800 species of plant. A number of these are unique to the region.

• Wildlife – You can enjoy many species of wildlife in the region, including 22 mammal species and 41 reptile species. An impressive 200 bird species also live in the area. There are several rare birds among this number, including the western whip bird, ground parrot and western bristle bird.

• Point Ann – A haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts, Point Ann offers visitors incredible views of the immense ocean, rocky coastline, and pristine beaches. It is also one of the few areas where you can spot southern right whales. These majestic mammals come to calve in the sheltered bay. Your best chance of seeing them is in June and October.

• Beach Fishing – Try your hand at fishing from the beach.

• Hiking and Walking Trails – You can explore the region and take in the impressive flora and fauna on one of the numerous trails.

 

5. Stokes National Park

Location: 280 km from Albany

Highlights:

• Fishing – Anglers can enjoy the challenge of landing diverse species of fish in Stokes Inlet, including black bream, Australian salmon, and King George whiting.

• Kayaking and Canoeing – Take in the beauty and serenity of the estuary from your kayak or canoe. You will have ample opportunity for birdwatching from this point.

• Moir Homestead Ruins – You can head back in time to the 1870s with a visit to the Moir Homestead Ruins.

• Hiking and Walking Trails – You can see the unspoilt magnificence of the area while hiking or taking a leisurely walk on one of the local trails. Be sure to keep an eye out for Tiger Snakes that frequent the region.

 

6. Hopetoun

Location: 344km from Albany

Highlights:

• Beaches – Hopetoun is fringed by 200 km of immaculate beaches. Whether you are fond of snorkelling, boating, fishing, or spending a relaxing day next to gorgeous turquoise waters, you can enjoy your beach activities near Hopetoun.

• Wildlife – The area is home to Hamersley Inlet, an ideal place to observe and photograph numerous birds and other creatures that call this region home.

• Hiking and Walking Trails – There are trails for visitors of all skill levels near Hopetoun. Enjoy challenging hikes on Hakea Trail or East Mount Barren. The Hopetoun – Ravensthorpe Railway Heritage Walk is just right for a leisurely walk to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you.

 

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Drive from Albany to Esperance

Preparation

• Be sure your vehicle is in good shape for the trip. Fuel up ahead of time, have a spare tyre, and keep an emergency safety kit with you. Many travellers find they have extra peace of mind when they hire a car for road trips. You will save wear and tear on your personal vehicle and can relax knowing the rental is in excellent condition.
• Check weather conditions before heading out.
• Mobile communication coverage is spotty along this route. Numerous vacationers purchase a Telstra SIM card to ensure better coverage.
• Let someone know your plans before you go. In the event of a situation, there will be a person looking out for you.
• Keep the contact information for local safety services handy.

Road Safety

• Avoid night travel and at dusk or dawn. Wildlife is more active at these times, and it is easy to have a collision.
• Stay alert for animal crossing warning signs. You could have an accident by suddenly encountering livestock as well as local wildlife that roam unfenced areas.
• Plan breaks to avoid fatigue. Generally, a short break every two hours is recommended. These can coincide with fueling up your vehicle. Stations can be few and far between, so it is best to err on the side of caution and refuel when the opportunity presents itself.

 

The trek from Albany to Esperance showcases the best of Western Australia. Whether you enjoy quaint towns, historical sites, gorgeous hiking trails, unique animal encounters, or pristine beaches, you can find all you want and more on the drive from Albany to Esperance.

 

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