Tucked away in Western Australia, the Wheatbelt region offers offers the perfect backdrop for an array of activities, whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend escape.
From ancient granite outcrops that reward travellers with panoramic views, to the striking, ever-changing colours of vast salt lakes that shift with the season, this region is a hidden paradise for nature lovers and history buffs. Whether you’re winding your way through charming country towns, standing in awe before the iconic Wave Rock, or embarking on a whimsical journey down the Tin Horse Highway, we’ve handpicked seven must-see attractions that deserve a spot on every traveller's bucket list.
Ready to surf the outback wave? Just under four hours’ drive from Perth, in the quaint
town of Hyden, you’ll find one of Western Australia's most iconic landmarks - Wave Rock! While the ocean may be miles away, this 110-metre-long and 15-metre-high formation creates the illusion of a giant wave, rising majestically from the outback landscape. Explore the winding trails around its base, or hike to the top for stunning panoramic views. There’s no shortage of things to see and do. Delve into history at Mulka’s Cave with over 450 ancient rock paintings, or visit Hippo’s Yawn, where colossal rocks resemble a yawning hippo, stroll among vibrant wildflowers, and gaze up at star-filled skies that will take your breath away. There is accommodation located nearby too if you want to stay overnight, and you can even camp at Wave Rock.
Cruise along Kulin's Tin Horse Highway, and encounter a delightful herd of tin horses set amongst the picturesque backdrop of rolling farmland. Stretching 12-kilometres, this open-air art installation is a seriously entertaining drive, with each side of the road lined with over 70+ tin horses of all shapes, colours and sizes striking poses as you pass by! This initiative started as a community campaign to promote the annual Kulin Bush Races, and these horses were crafted from bits and pieces found laying around from local farmers. Just a three-hour drive from Perth, it's the perfect excuse to pack your favourite snacks, grab your camera, and discover the whimsical characters of Kulin.
For the nature lovers, make sure to add Dryandra Woodland to your road trip itinerary! See some of Western Australia’s unique animals – Dryandra Woodland is a sanctuary to more than 100 species of birds and 24 mammals, making it the perfect spot for animal watching! Expect to see echidnas, woylies, possums, kangaroos and numbats as you explore and walk throughout the woodlands and the bushwalking trails. Learn all about the animals on a 25km radio gravel drive trail, travelling through the open woodland scenery, including 6 stops with interesting stories about the history and animals of the area. Visit at night-time for a guided nocturnal walk to see threatened marsupials like wallabies, bilbies, bandicoots and boodies.
We know you’ve heard of Wave Rock, but have you heard of Elachbutting Rock? Located about 100km North of Westonia and along The Wheatbelt Way, this hidden gem boasts a breathtaking natural formation reminiscent of Wave Rock. Wander quiet trails amongst undisturbed bushland, and discover some amazing views from the top! Find the hidden caves which have formed within the rock. They’re great fun to climb in and have a look around, as well as hear the echoes of your voices bouncing off the walls. Monty’s Pass is a real highlight, a 30-metre tunnel caused by a rockslide, which you can squeeze, climb and crawl through. camp under star-filled skies, and relish the solitude of having this breathtaking natural wonder all to yourself.
Experience larger-than-life-sized murals while road tripping through beautiful landscapes, charming towns of the Wheatbelt. The PUBLIC Silo Trail, an ambitious project that brought internationally renowned artists to regional Western Australia to transform a string of massive grain silos into works of art. One of its standout pieces is the 35-metre-high mural in Merredin, created by Perth artist Kyle Hughes-Odgers in August 2017. This striking artwork tells the story of Merredin’s agricultural roots and natural beauty, with abstract forms and geometric patterns that represent the town's landforms, community, and rich agricultural heritage.
Pay tribute to a man's best friend at Corrigin Dog Cemetery. A large stone dog statue crowns this lovely resting place, for more than 200 treasured pets, just outside the town. Its existence was unintentional: in 1974, a local man buried his beloved canine companion in the paddock. Others noticed, and followed suit. Sitting 3.5-hours from Perth, wander through the mementos to many a best friend and feel the pull on your heartstrings. The peaceful place will evoke memories of your own dear pets and you’ll feel happy that such a spot exists.
Refreshing dip in the Outback? Don't mind if we do! Sandwiched between the iconic Wave Rock and the expansive Lake Magic lies the stunning Wave Rock Salt Pond. Found 800m from Wave Rock, this circular salt pool is like the Dead Sea – you can bob about in weightless style in the middle of the scrub. Its base is gypsum, and it’s 6m deep, constructed by a local some time ago. Steps in provide accessibility and the saline content is meant to deliver therapeutic benefits. It’s next door to Lake Magic, a larger saltwater expanse that’s particularly beautiful at sunset. Pack your bathers, towel, and a picnic, and get ready to experience weightlessness and bliss in this hidden gem.