The Best of Spring in the Wheatbelt

Have a Blooming Adventure in the Wheatbelt this Spring.

As the winter chill starts to ease and nature begins to bloom, Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region comes to life with an enchanting display of colour and experiences during spring. From breath taking wildflowers that carpet the landscape to extraordinary road trips oozing with history and culture, idyllic camping conditions, and thrilling outdoor adventures, the Wheatbelt offers a tapestry of delights with a little something for everyone to enjoy.

A wildflower wonderland

As springtime unfolds and after some decent winter rainfall, the Wheatbelt transforms into a mesmerising wildflower wonderland, attracting enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers from around the country. The region boasts an incredibly diverse array of native flora, with more than 2,000 species of wildflowers, many of which are endemic to Western Australia. Vibrant bursts of pink, purple, yellow and white paint the fields, creating a captivating visual spectacle. Among the famous wildflowers are the ever-enchanting and iconic everlastings, which blanket the fields and create some amazing photo opportunities. Check out all you need to know about outback wildflowers here.

By September, the wildflowers are usually in bloom, along with the incredible yellow canola fields. The Wave Rock Wildflower Trail, Granite Loop Wildflower Trail, and the Wheatbelt & Goldfields Wildflower Trail are both popular self-drive routes to explore the wildflowers during springtime. Exploring the region’s many nature reserves, like Dryandra Woodland, provides an up-close encounter with these botanical treasures. If you’re in the Northern Wheatbelt, head to the Dalwallinu Discovery Centre to hear about wildflower hotpots from the locals, especially about where to find the rare wreath flower (Lechenaultia macrantha).

Wildflowers are extremely dependant on weather and seasons, so always check with the local visitor centre if you’re main goal is spotting these outback blooms.

Explore scenic drive routes

Spring in the Wheatbelt offers the perfect opportunity for road trips that lead to awe-inspiring vistas and hidden gems. Embark on a journey along the Wheatbelt Way, a 1,600 kilometre self-drive trail that winds through picturesque towns, rolling farmlands, and stunning natural landscapes. Discover museums, history, charming people and so much more as you take in the sights of spring.

The iconic Wave Rock, a massive granite formation resembling a crashing wave frozen in time, is another sight to be seen in spring as wildflowers are scattered around the base, and you can see this along the Pathways to Wave Rock. As you drive through the quaint Wheatbelt towns, be sure to stop in at local cafes and bakeries, indulging in farm-fresh produce and warm hospitality that adds an authentic touch to your road trip journey.

Visit the iconic Tin Horse Highway near Kulin for a fun and unforgettable stretch of Wheatbelt road. This quirky collection of tin horses line the roadside out to the Jilakin Race Track. The Kulin locals have strategically placed their tin horse masterpieces in the paddocks lining the 12 kilometre stretch of road, and were made to reflect a diverse range of themes, with inventive use of materials. This eclectic exhibition is a one of a kind and a credit to the creative spirit of the local community of Kulin.

Head off the beaten track to explore one of the world’s greatest untouched temperate woodlands, right here in Western Australia. Stretching 300 km from Hyden and Wave Rock to Norseman, the Granite and Woodlands Discovery Trail is an adventurous road trip through a remarkable landscape.

Camp under a starlit canopy

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to camping locations throughout the Wheatbelt from well-equipped caravan parks to remote bush camping sites, especially in spring. The warmer days provide fantastic conditions to enjoy the sunshine before a slight chill rolls in at night time. That’s when it’s time to get the campfire roaring and enjoy the sunset before the night sky full of stars appears. The Wheatbelt is home to multiple ‘dark sky towns’, meaning they provide some of the best stargazing conditions away from light pollution. You won’t believe your eyes as the night sky unfolds before you, you won’t be able to look away! Check out some incredible free camping spots here.

Experience true outback hospitality at a farm stay

There’s no better way to connect with the landscape of the Wheatbelt than experience a farm stay. There are some incredible places to stay for a few nights scattered throughout the Wheatbelt, as your friendly hosts welcome you onto their farms and homesteads for a taste of what country life is like. The rustic and peaceful setting is great for the whole family, where kids can cuddle cute farm animals, sit among some incredible bush settings, huddle around the campfire, and so much more. Book an ultimate ‘haycation’ to switch off from city life for a few nights and refresh the soul.

Indulge at an outback winery

There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs located throughout the Wheatbelt, but did you know there’s even outback wineries you can visit? In the southern Wheatbelt, discover an array of outback wineries along the 3 day Winery, Woodlands and Wheatbelt Trail. Walker’s Hill Vineyard is Western Australia’s most inland vineyard, and this family owned boutique winery offers a beautiful rustic setting with wine tastings and meals by bookings. Head to Downderry Wines to share wine, cheese and a chat with Rex and Jan Hayes and discover their cabinet full of Wheatbelt wine awards for their delicious varieties.

Outdoor adventures: from trails to tracks

Spring is the perfect time for outdoor adventures to explore the Wheatbelt’s diverse terrain. The region offers a plethora of activities, from leisurely hikes to thrilling off-road tracks. Lace up your hiking boots and traverse the picturesque trails that wind through many nature reserves and rock formations, offering panoramic views of lush wildflowers and rolling hills.

If it’s a wildlife adventure you're after, head to the unique Dryandra Woodland. This is a prime location for viewing some of Western Australia’s most wonderful bird and animal life. Look out for the rare malleefowl, possums, wallabies and kangaroos and threatened species such as the western barred bandicoots, banded hare-wallabies, boodies, bilbies and rufus hare-wallabies.

Choose from a plethora of rock formations and granite outcrops to explore, from giant rocks to breakaways, hidden salt lakes and water holes, and so much more. You’ll often find yourself alone out at these nature reserves, helping you to reconnect with nature and feel totally off the grid. Some of our recommendations include Elachbutting Rock,

So pack your bags, embark on a journey, and let the Wheatbelt’s springtime magic envelop your senses in a tapestry of colours and experiences that will be cherished forever.