At this time of year, there are a number of public holidays, like Labour Day (6 March), Good Friday and Easter (14 April and 17 April), and our beloved ANZAC day (25 April). All of these holidays make it the perfect time to go on holiday, either with your significant other or with your family and friends. Public holidays are great because you get to enjoy a long weekend without cutting into your annual leave. They’re the perfect opportunity to plan a quick getaway.

Rather than wasting much of your travel time in getting to an overseas destination or over to the east coast even, why not stay close to home and take advantage of the many wonders Western Australia has to offer? Here are a few suggestions to help you get started in planning your next holiday:

Seasonal Bush Walks in the Karri Forests

The Karri Forests Region is located in the beautiful Pemberton region in the South West of Western Australia. It’s an amazingly beautiful part of WA with it’s tall, open forest full of stunning Karri trees that’s perfect for seasonal bush walking, self-drive tours or camping. The Karri trees can reach heights of up to 90 metres – not something you see every day if you’re a Perth city-slicker that’s for sure. Blogger, Wild Western Australia, has put together a great list of Karri Forests travel highlights for the region together from 4WD adventures to wilderness trails and even canoe adventures.

Celestine Retreat in Denmark

Celestine Retreat offers a quiet, romantic getaway from all the stresses of your daily life. Nestled up high on Mount Shadforth, this gorgeous getaway offers spectacular views of the Wilson Inlet, Southern Ocean and valleys below. The town of Denmark is nearby, providing easy access to a variety of restaurants, bars and wineries for you to enjoy. However, with the luxury spa chalets at the Celestine Retreat, you may not even want to venture out, opting instead to soak in the natural beauty in peace and privacy.

Upper Reach Spa Cottage in the Swan Valley

The Upper Reach Spa Cottage is a great option for a romantic trip for two, a holiday with friends or even a trip with the whole family. The cottage is the only accommodation at the Swan Valley vineyard, so you and your guests will have your very own vineyard for the night. You’ll love sampling wines in at the Upper Reach cellar door and dining on delicious local fare at Broad’s Restaurant. Your little ones will love the Caversham Wildlife Park and the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm. It’s hard to believe that Perth’s CBD is only 30 minutes away from the delights of the Swan Valley!

Bonking Frog Winery Cottage in the Ferguson Valley

The Bonking Frog Winery also has a private cottage that is perfect for a weekend escape. Forget all your cares as you enjoy a glass of merlot while looking out at the peaceful views of the vineyard from your private deck. Bunbury is just 15 minutes away, so you’ll have easy access to all the dining and entertainment options the city has to offer alongside all the vineyards within and surrounding the gorgeous Ferguson Valley – a hidden treasure in WA.

Lake Leschenaultia in Mundaring

Lake Leschenaultia is the perfect family getaway, offering lots for you to do with your little ones over a long weekend. You can enjoy a relaxing picnic and participate in a variety of water activities on the lake, including swimming and canoeing. Rather than roasting in the sun at the beach, the lake provides a shady alternative that still allows you to enjoy the water on a hot day.

Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge in the Kimberley

Purnululu National Park is home to the Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, a rustic escape that offers easy access to the many natural wonders in the area, including the Bungle Bungle Range and Cathedral Gorge. The relaxing bush setting gives you a chance to forget about all your worries and just enjoy the beauty of nature. You and the other guests at the lodge can enjoy sharing stories around the campfire each night.

Make your next WA holiday one to remember and support some fantastic local businesses while you’re at it.

If you’re looking for that little extra touch to your holiday, why not order a gourmet gift basket to make that car trip/first night on holiday even better!