The best things to do in Manjimup
Manjimup is the perfect location for a peaceful weekend away from the city with much to discover, from pristine scenery to luxurious culinary experiences.
Nestled 307km south of Perth, it takes just three-and-a-half hours to drive from Perth to Manjimup, where you can enjoy the serenity of nature and breathtaking views, along with Australia’s most successful truffle industry.
Thanks to the high-quality produce and thriving orchids filling the region, Manjimup has become a culinary bucket list spot for foodies especially around festivals like the Truffle Kerfuffle.
SEE & DO
Fonty’s Pool
One of the most well-known spots in Manjimup is the iconic Fonty’s Swimming Pool. Almost one acre in size, this huge man-made freshwater swimming pool is the perfect spot to enjoy a day by the water. This beautiful piece of paradise offers the ideal combination of soothing ambience and summer fun. Take along a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings in between dips in the pool. There is also a caravan park and chalets on site if you’re looking for a spot to spend the night.
Glenoran Pool
Glenoran Pool is a beautiful and serene spot to stop on your trip through Manjimup. Located in a forest clearing just 22km from town, the Donnelly River opens up into a tranquil and shallow natural pool. The mirror-like reflections of the pool offer a beautiful setting. This secluded spot is perfect for swimming, fishing, or just relaxing. There is also a great picnic area to stop and have a picnic lunch.
Manjimup Heritage Park
The Manjimup Heritage Park is the perfect stop for those interested in the stories and history of Manjimup. The 12-hectare park offers numerous attractions, including three museums, heritage displays, and beautiful walking trails. The Power Up Electricity Museum, Steam Museum, and State Timber Museum are all conveniently situated within the park. If you’re a big kid at heart, you can hit the adventure playground which boasts a thrilling 17-metre slide and 40-metre flying fox!
One Tree Bridge
The One Tree Bridge Conservation Park is located just 22km from Manjimup and is the perfect place to spend a day exploring nature. The park’s main attraction is the remains of One Tree Bridge. Constructed in 1904, the bridge is made of a single karri tree and was once the only way to cross the Donelly River. The bridge was rendered unusable in 1966, but its remains are displayed as the centrepiece of the park, offering an incredible site for visitors.
Truffles!
You can’t visit Manjimup without indulging in a truffle experience. While you can visit restaurants offering an assortment of delicious truffle dishes, why not get your hand dirty and go hunting for your own? Truffle Hill was Australia’s first commercial truffiere and is one of the few in the world that offers truffle hunting experiences for visitors. Get the chance to hunt with expert dogs to locate the ripest truffles before you’re put to work digging out truffles. You’ll also learn about Manjimup’s truffle production, harvesting, and more. Following the hunt you can opt to include a guided truffle and wine tasting to cap off the day.
And we mustn’t forget the popular Truffle Kerfuffle, an annual winter getaway celebrating truffle season with celebrity chefs, special dining experiences, masterclasses and of course, truffle hunts!
Four Aces
Also located in the One Tree Bridge Conservation Park are the natural spectacles known as the Four Aces. They are four towering karri trees that stand in a perfectly straight line. They offer a majestic site worth making a stop to see. Sit quietly among the beauty of the karri trees and enjoy the tranquillity before hitting the road again.
Beedelup Falls
Just a 30-minute drive from Manjimup town centre is the stunning Beedelup Falls. Nestled inside the Beedelup National Park, these attractive rocky cascades are beautiful all year round, but full flow is in winter and early spring. The falls are situated just 300m from the car park for easy access. If you are looking to set out on a longer walk, the Beedelup Loop Walk sets out from the falls and passes through the breathtaking karri forest via the RAC Karri Valley Resort. The track is 4.5km and is considered moderately hard.
EAT & DRINK
Gatsbys Skyline
We didn’t have Great Gatsby-themed upstairs cabaret bar on our “things to do in Manjimup” bingo card, but then we didn’t know about Gatsbys Skyline did we!? With live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night, a quirky fitout and a great attitude, expect to find bands, comedy, circus, burlesque and other live entertainment on any given trip up the staircase!
10 Chains
If you’re heading south from Manjimup, the 10 Chains Estate is an easy 30-minute drive from town. This small family-owned vineyard and cellar door offer a variety of local wines produced with premium fruit. The picturesque cellar door at 10 Chains is open by appointment only, so call ahead to secure a sample of their local wine range.
Tall Timbers Brewing Co.
If you’re keen to try a local craft beer inspired by the southern forests region, Tall Timbers Brewing Co. is the place to hit. Enjoy the best of both worlds with two venues across the road – the restaurant and the brewery. The restaurant showcases world-renowned produce with something for everyone. Across the road, their Brew Pub offers a more relaxed vibe, with delicious craft beer brewed on-site.
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Hound & Hunter Fine Foods
The newly opened Hound & Hunter Fine Foods is a must-visit while in Manjimup. This venue offers a delicious range of fine foods and recipes created by acclaimed WA Chef David Coomer. Using their own range of products you can enjoy an array of deli goods, charcuterie, truffle dishes, baked goods, and even gelato.
Two Little Black Birds Cafe
Don’t let the size of this ‘little’ cafe fool you, this local hot spot has a lot to offer! This vibrant cafe offers a delicious breakfast and lunch range. The Two Little Black Birds Cafe is owned by a husband and wife duo who have created a menu that puts a spin on the traditional breakfast finds. Think home-cooked classics taken to a new level.
Mountford Winery
Just 20 minutes from Manjimup is this beautiful hidden gem. Mountford Winery produces certified organic wines and cider using carbon-positive and sustainable methods. Their range includes locally grown and produced wine and cider, plus Australia’s first black truffle-infused liqueur. Visit the breathtaking winery and cellar doors to taste all they have to offer.
Guadagnino Orchards
If you’re looking for fresh local produce to take home with you, Guadagnino Orchards is the place to go. They stock an abundance of fresh and seasonal produce all year round that comes direct from their orchard. From fruit and vegetables to nuts and sweet treats, this adorable family-owned business is the best way to get a taste of fresh Manjimup produce.
Header Image Credit: Truffle Kerfuffle