The best things to do in the Ferguson Valley
Bunbury’s emergence as a strong tourism destination in its own right only grows with each year.
And a big part of that is the Ferguson Valley, a beautiful part of the south west filled with wineries, walks and so much more:
Jump on a tour
So first thing you should know about the Fergie is that it’s super close to Bunbury, making it a quick-and-easy trip from wherever you end up staying down there. Your best option for experiencing the Fergie from a drinking/eating perspective is to jump on a tour or hire a personalised chauffeur like Hinterland Escapes, or Pop A Cork Tours if you’re feeling a little fancier.
Winery wandering
Ferguson Valley has over 20 beautiful wineries to pop into, some who’ve been there for decades, while others a little more fresh-faced – all barrels of fun. You can jump on the Geographe Alternative Wine Trail as a handy guide, the only trouble you’re gonna find is fitting them all in. Every winery is owned and operated by some of the most passionate people you’ll meet, and they love a chat while guiding you through their delicious selections.
There’s a couple of great breweries too
Lager lovers fear not – the Fergie is home to a couple of killer breweries in Wild Bull and Bush Shack. Make sure you have a yarn with Dan at Bush Shack who’ll take you through his process towards crafting such flavours as Twisted Lemon Lager, The Chef’s Wicked Chocolate Beer and Dirty Dan’s Dark Delight.
Fine dining galore
With all the tasting it’s important to grab a bite to eat, and the Valley isn’t short on options. Outside of most cellar doors offering cheese boards and tasting plates, there are quite a few with full a la carte menus, usually offering stunning views over rolling, grape-filled valleys. Ferguson Falls’ Café is home to some award winning pizza, while Hackersley Estate’s set menu long lunch is an absolute winner.
Mountain biking trails are everywhere
Along with Collie’s extensive trail network, Ferguson Valley has become increasingly sought-after by mountain bike enthusiasts in recent years. The Mount Lennard Mountain Bike Network in the Wellington National Park has a variety of different trails for all levels, with the Grizzly trail one to really get the heart racing. A little further inland you’ll find a few different tracks at Wellington Mills too, popular with the downhill racing scene.
Roam With The Gnomes
Lastly, given we’re very much an Instagram-focused outlet, it’d be remiss of us not to mention one of WA’s most-grammed spots, Gnomesville. Make sure bring one of your own to add to the collection of over 7,000 that currently occupy the spot, and snap your little slice of history.
To start planning your Bunbury getaway, head to visitbunburygeographe.com.