South West WA Road Trip: Margaret River to Denmark

A South West WA road trip from Margaret River to Denmark is one of Australia’s most dazzling drives. Think glassy turquoise bays, towering karri forests, farm-to-table feasts, and cool-climate wineries pouring award-winning drops. This is a journey that blends coastal beauty with country charm, and it rewards every stop with something delicious, photogenic, or both.

In this guide you will find detailed itineraries, the must-see stops, practical driving tips, seasonal advice, and handpicked places to eat and stay. Pack your swimmers and your sense of adventure, then point your bonnet toward one of Western Australia’s most coveted coastal drives.

Why This Road Trip Belongs On Your Bucket List

• Variety that never bores: surf beaches and protected coves, ancient forests and granite outcrops, premium wineries and boutique distilleries, art studios and coastal hikes.
• Easy logistics: sealed roads, short hops between highlights, and abundant food, fuel, and accommodation options.
• Year-round appeal: summer sea days, autumn vintages, winter truffles and waterfalls, spring wildflowers and whale watching.
• Compact yet rich: in 4 to 7 days you can taste, sip, swim, and wander through some of the South West’s best scenery without long highway slogs.

At A Glance: Distances, Driving Times, Route Overview

• Margaret River to Augusta: 50 km, about 40 minutes
• Margaret River to Hamelin Bay: 35 km, about 30 minutes
• Margaret River to Pemberton: 135 km, about 1 hour 50 minutes
• Pemberton to Walpole: 120 km, about 1 hour 30 minutes
• Walpole to Denmark: 65 km, about 45 minutes
• Margaret River to Denmark via Nannup, Manjimup, Walpole: about 330 km, 3 hours 45 minutes driving time without stops

Two excellent routes connect Margaret River and Denmark:

1. Forest and inland route: Margaret River to Nannup, Manjimup, Pemberton, Walpole, Denmark. Best for big trees, farm gates, and the Valley of the Giants.
2. Coastal-meets-forest route: Margaret River to Augusta, Hamelin Bay, Pemberton, Walpole, Denmark. Best for lighthouses, stingrays, caves, and karri country.

Tip: Distances look short on paper, but you will want time for detours to beaches, cellar doors, and walking trails. Build in extra time every day.

The Perfect South West WA Itinerary

You can do this road trip in as few as four days or dial it up to a full week or more. Choose the pace that fits your travel style.

4-Day Classic Itinerary

Day 1: Margaret River region

• Morning: Coffee in Margaret River town, then head to the coast at Surfers Point and Prevelly for your first ocean fix.
• Mid-morning: Choose a cave tour at Mammoth Cave or Lake Cave. Both are easy to access and beautifully presented.
• Lunch: Vineyard lunch at Leeuwin Estate, Voyager Estate, Vasse Felix, or Xanadu. Book ahead, especially on weekends.
• Afternoon: Boranup Forest scenic drive for cathedral-like karri trees. Stop at Boranup Lookout for sweeping views.
• Sunset: Sugarloaf Rock near Yallingup. If you prefer to stay south, try the cliff-top lookout near Redgate Beach.
• Overnight: Margaret River region.

Day 2: Augusta, Hamelin Bay, and on to Pemberton

• Morning: Jewel Cave tour near Augusta, a jaw-dropping calcite wonder.
• Stop: Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. Views on clear days are stunning.
• Late morning: Hamelin Bay to see the friendly rays in the shallows. They are wild, so keep your distance and avoid touching.
• Lunch: Country pub lunch in Karridale or cellar door platters at Glenarty Road.
• Afternoon: Drive to Pemberton through rolling farmland and karri forest. Stretch your legs at Beedelup Falls or along the Warren River walk.
• Overnight: Pemberton or RAC Karri Valley Resort on Lake Beedelup.

Day 3: Tall trees and the Valley of the Giants to Walpole

• Morning: Gloucester National Park. Fit and confident climbers can tackle the Gloucester Tree if open at the time, otherwise take a forest walk.
• Late morning: Continue east to Walpole. Detour to Mount Frankland for a short, steep walk to a granite dome with big views over the Walpole Wilderness.
• Afternoon: Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, a gentle, accessible walkway up to 40 metres above ground through the tingle canopy. Do the Ancient Empire boardwalk at ground level too.
• Overnight: Walpole or continue to Denmark if you prefer a slightly longer day.

Day 4: Denmark and William Bay National Park

• Morning: Head to William Bay National Park. Swim or snorkel at Greens Pool, then wander among the boulders at Elephant Rocks. Arrive early for fewer crowds and low winds.
• Lunch: Cellar door platters at Singlefile Wines or The Lake House Denmark.
• Afternoon: Ocean Beach lookout, Lights Beach coastal walk, or a tasting at Boston Brewing Co.
• Evening: A celebratory dinner at Pepper & Salt or The Dam at Raintree.
• Overnight: Denmark.

7-Day Slow Food and Nature Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Margaret River

• Explore town, browse galleries and boutiques, walk the river mouth at Prevelly, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at Settlers Tavern or Miki’s Open Kitchen.

Day 2: Caves, coastline, and wine

• Lake Cave or Mammoth Cave in the morning, followed by a Cape to Cape coastal ramble between Redgate and Contos. Long lunch at a flagship winery. Sunset at Injidup or Sugarloaf Rock.

Day 3: Augusta and Hamelin Bay

• Jewel Cave, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, picnic at Flinders Bay. Swim with care at Hamelin Bay, then head back up to Karridale or onward toward Pemberton for the night.

Day 4: Pemberton and karri country

• Forest immersion. Beedelup Falls, Warren National Park, scenic drive on the Karri Forest Explorer. Sample cool-climate pinot and chardonnay at Pemberley of Pemberton or nearby cellar doors.

Day 5: Walpole wilderness

• Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, Circular Pool on the Frankland River, and Conspicuous Cliff lookout. Dinner at Nornabar if it suits your route and timing.

Day 6: Denmark coast and cellar doors

• Sunrise at Greens Pool, coffee at a Denmark cafe, then a tasting trail along Scotsdale Scenic Drive. Include Singlefile, Rockcliffe, Harewood Estate, or Castelli. Sunset at Lights Beach.

Day 7: Denmark to Albany option or Denmark deep dive

• Option 1: Day trip to Albany for The Gap and Natural Bridge, whaling station museum, and Middleton Beach.
• Option 2: Stay local with kayaking on the Denmark River, mountain biking on Mt Hallowell trails, or a lazy beach day at Ocean Beach.

Unmissable Stops Along The Route

Margaret River Region: Wine, Surf, Caves, and Forest

• Surfers Point and Prevelly: A quintessential South West scene with reliable swell, coastal boardwalks, and golden sunsets.
• Caves: Mammoth Cave is self-guided and family friendly. Lake Cave has a beautiful suspended platform and mirrored lake. Jewel Cave near Augusta features vast chambers with delicate formations.
• Boranup Forest: A short scenic drive through karri giants. Light filters through the canopy for ethereal photos. Combine with a stop at nearby galleries or artisan studios.
• Cape to Cape Track: Even a short section rewards walkers with limestone cliffs, wildflowers in spring, and sweeping ocean views.
• Wineries and distilleries: From Leeuwin Estate’s art and music heritage to Giniversity at Margaret River Distilling Co, the region pours sophistication and experimentation in equal measure.

Augusta and Cape Leeuwin

• Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: Western Australia’s tallest lighthouse, plus history and panoramas at the meeting of two oceans.
• Hamelin Bay: Famous for stingrays in the shallows. Mornings on calm days are best. Bring a mask and snorkel, and keep hands off for the animals’ wellbeing.
• Flinders Bay: A peaceful picnic spot and seasonal whale watching platform. Southern right and humpback whales migrate along the coast, typically May to October.

Pemberton and the Karri Country

• Gloucester National Park: Towering karri trees, riverside trails, and memorable picnic spots. The Gloucester Tree climb is a unique experience for confident, prepared climbers. Check current safety advice and opening status.
• Beedelup Falls and Karri Valley: A photogenic falls and swing bridge near RAC Karri Valley Resort. Early morning mist and mirror-like lake reflections make for postcard shots.
• Warren National Park: Scenic drives, secluded river bends, and the Heartbreak Trail, a short but rewarding loop for forest immersion.
• Truffle country: Around Manjimup and Pemberton, winter means truffles. If you’re visiting in June to August, ask about truffle hunts or menus in season.

Walpole and the Valley of the Giants

• Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk: A graceful 600-metre loop above the tingle forest canopy. Pair it with the Ancient Empire walk to see gnarled giants at ground level.
• Circular Pool: The Frankland River’s tannin-rich foam swirls in mesmerising patterns after rain. A peaceful, photogenic stop near Walpole.
• Conspicuous Cliff and Peaceful Bay: Rugged coastal views, wildflowers in spring, and a superb sense of wilderness along the Southern Ocean.

Denmark and William Bay National Park

• Greens Pool: Calm, shallow water that glows emerald on sunny days. Family friendly and ideal for a morning swim when winds are light. Bring a mask for boulder-side snorkelling.
• Elephant Rocks and Elephant Cove: Granite boulders shaped like a herd of elephants. Walk carefully on polished rock and check tide before descending to the cove.
• Lights Beach: Lookouts, walking trails, and a mix of sandy coves and rocky headlands. A favourite for sunset.
• Ocean Beach: Popular for surfing and beach walks. When the Denmark River mouth opens, it creates a striking sandbar scene.
• Denmark wine and cider: The Great Southern region excels at riesling, chardonnay, and pinot noir. Try Singlefile for refined tastings, The Lake House for platter-perfect lawns, and Boston Brewing Co for craft beer. The Dam at Raintree adds a sleek venue with a botanical distillery twist.

Best Time To Go

• Summer, December to February: Clear water, long beach days, and busy towns. Book well ahead for school holidays. Afternoon sea breezes are common, so plan swims in the morning.
• Autumn, March to May: Mild days, vintage action at wineries, and warm ocean temps lingering into April. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and long lunches.
• Winter, June to August: Crisp mornings, lush forests, flowing waterfalls, truffle season, and peak whale watching around Augusta and Albany. Pack layers and a rain jacket.
• Spring, September to November: Wildflowers, baby wildlife, and milder winds. The whole region feels fresh and green, and conditions suit hiking and sightseeing.

Where To Stay: Handpicked Options

Margaret River and Surrounds

• Luxury and boutique: Cape Lodge in Yallingup wine country; Losari Retreat; Injidup Spa Retreat for private villas with ocean views.
• Family friendly: Stay Margaret River; Margarets Beach Resort near Gnarabup; Big4 Taunton Farm for kids who love animals.
• Couples and cabins: Margaret River Guest House; Hidden Valley Forest Retreat for secluded forest stays.

Pemberton and Karri Country

• Lakeside: RAC Karri Valley Resort for balconies over Lake Beedelup and forest trails from your door.
• Country charm: Forest Lodge Resort; Pump Hill Farm Cottages for rustic cabin vibes.
• Farm stays and vineyard cottages: A scattering of self-contained options around Pemberton and Manjimup, great for slow mornings and stargazing.

Walpole

• Nature stays: Tinglewood Cabins; Walpole Wilderness Resort for quiet cabins surrounded by forest.
• In-town convenience: Simple motels and holiday parks close to cafes, the river, and jetty.

Denmark

• Luxe retreats: Aiyana Retreat; Chimes Spa Retreat for couples with spa suites and valley views.
• Coastal cabins and chalets: Karma Chalets; Ocean Beach Holiday Park for families who want sand and surf at their doorstep.
• Self-contained cottages: Plenty of private stays along Scotsdale Scenic Drive and Mount Shadforth Road with vineyard or valley outlooks.

Tip: In peak periods like summer holidays and long weekends, Denmark and Margaret River book out quickly. Secure stays early and plan dinner reservations for top restaurants.

Food And Drink Highlights You Will Love

Margaret River

• Long lunches: Leeuwin Estate, Voyager Estate, Vasse Felix, Xanadu.
• Casual feasts: Settlers Tavern for local seafood and live music; Miki’s Open Kitchen for creative Japanese.
• Breweries and distilleries: Colonial Brewing Co; Beerfarm in Metricup; Margaret River Distilling Co for Giniversity tastings.

Pemberton and Manjimup

• Local produce: Truffle menus in winter, chestnuts and avocados in season, cool-climate pinot and chardonnay.
• Tasting rooms: Pemberley of Pemberton; Hidden River Estate near the lake for lunch with a view.
• Country stops: Bakeries and cafes that do a strong trade in pies, pastries, and good coffee.

Walpole

• Farm-to-fork: Nornabar for regional produce. Simple fish and chips and riverside picnics if you prefer low-key dining after a day in the trees.

Denmark

• Wineries and breweries: Singlefile Wines, The Lake House Denmark, Rockcliffe, Harewood Estate, Boston Brewing Co.
• Dining: Pepper & Salt for modern Australian with spice-led flair; The Dam at Raintree for a sleek experience with a distillery angle.
• Sweet treats: Award-winning Denmark Bakery for pies and pastries, ideal for beach picnics.

Practical Road Trip Tips

• Vehicle: A standard 2WD is fine. Roads between towns are sealed and in good condition. Take it slow on gravel access roads and watch for wildlife.
• Fuel and supplies: Easy to find in Margaret River, Augusta, Nannup, Manjimup, Pemberton, Walpole, and Denmark. Fill up before long forest stretches.
• National park passes: William Bay, Leeuwin-Naturaliste, and other parks may require a day pass per vehicle. Buy online or at park stations and save your receipt.
• Safety: Kangaroos can be active at dawn and dusk. Avoid driving at these times if possible, use high beams on country roads when safe, and slow down if visibility drops.
• Mobile coverage: Patchy in forests and national parks. Download maps offline and let someone know your hike plans.
• Beach savvy: Check local surf and weather forecasts. Watch for rips, supervise kids closely, and observe any signage before swimming or rock hopping.
• Tours: A wine tour in Margaret River or Denmark is a fun way to explore without driving between tastings. Cave tours run daily and can be booked ahead during busy periods.
• Accessibility: The Tree Top Walk is designed for prams and wheelchairs. Many lookouts around the region have accessible platforms.

Responsible Travel In South West WA

• Respect wildlife: Do not feed or touch stingrays at Hamelin Bay or any other wild animals. Observe from a respectful distance.
• Leave no trace: Take all rubbish with you, use provided facilities, and stick to marked trails to protect fragile coastal and forest ecosystems.
• Water wise: Short showers and mindful water use help regional communities, especially during summer.
• Support local: Choose local growers, makers, guides, and family-owned stays. Your spend keeps the South West thriving.
• Cultural respect: The region is home to Wadandi and Menang Noongar Country. Consider local cultural tours to deepen your understanding of the land and its stories.

What To Pack

• Clothing: Layers for changeable weather, a warm jacket for winter, light breathable fabrics for summer, and a brimmed hat year round.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots. Reef-safe sandals or rock shoes for scrambling over granite.
• Beach kit: Swimmers, towel, snorkel and mask for Greens Pool or Hamelin Bay, and a compact beach shade.
• Essentials: Refillable water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, microfibre towel, and a small first-aid kit.
• Tech: Car charger, offline maps, and a camera with spare batteries or power bank.
• Optional: Picnic set, insulated bag for farm gate finds, and binoculars for birdwatching and whales.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do I need from Margaret River to Denmark?

• The sweet spot is 4 to 7 days. Four days cover the essentials. A week lets you slow down for long lunches, more beaches, and extra hikes.

Is the drive suitable for kids?

• Yes. Distances between stops are short, and many attractions are family friendly. Greens Pool, the Tree Top Walk, and caves are usually a hit. Always check age guidelines for cave tours and tree climbs.

Can I do this trip in winter?

• Definitely. Forests are lush, waterfalls flow, truffles appear on menus, and whales migrate close to shore. Bring warm layers and plan for occasional rain.

Do I need a 4WD?

• No. A 2WD is fine for the main route and most attractions. If you plan remote beach access or deeper national park tracks, check conditions and consider a 4WD tour.

What about crowds and parking at Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks?

• Arrive early, ideally before 9 am, especially in summer and school holidays. Midweek is quieter. If the car park is full, choose another beach and return later.

Is Albany worth adding?

• If you have an extra day or two, yes. The Gap and Natural Bridge in Torndirrup National Park, heritage sites, and beautiful beaches make Albany a strong extension east of Denmark.

A Sample Day On The Road: Denmark Finale

• Sunrise stretch: Drive to William Bay early. Swim at Greens Pool while the water is glassy and the wind light.
• Mid-morning: Coffee and pastries in Denmark town. Browse local art and pick up picnic supplies.
• Late morning tasting: Singlefile Wines for an elegant flight and cheese board on the lawn.
• Afternoon: Walk the Lights Beach circuit or relax at Ocean Beach. If you surf, check the banks and winds before paddling out.
• Golden hour: Return to Elephant Rocks for soft evening light on the granite. End with dinner at Pepper & Salt or The Dam at Raintree.

Extend Your Adventure

• Cape to Cape sections: Add a half-day coastal walk north or south of Margaret River.
• Windy Harbour and D’Entrecasteaux National Park: A remote-feeling detour west of Pemberton with wild views and few people.
• Albany: Torndirrup’s blowholes and granite formations, museum-quality history, and a growing food scene.

The Sales Pitch You Can Trust

This South West WA road trip is an easy sell because it delivers. In under a week you can swim in sheltered bays that look straight off a postcard, climb among ancient trees, taste your way through two distinct wine regions, and find that rare blend of adventure and relaxation. It is family friendly, couple approved, and geared to every budget, from luxe retreats to cosy cabins.

Book your stays, reserve those long lunches, and mark Greens Pool and the Tree Top Walk at the top of your list. Then let the open road between Margaret River and Denmark do the rest.

Conclusion

From the vineyards and limestone caves of Margaret River to the emerald coves and cool-climate vines of Denmark, this route is a highlight reel of South West Western Australia. Drive it for the scenery, stay for the food and wine, and remember it for the sense of calm that comes from ocean air and forest light. Whether you choose a 4-day dash or a 7-day amble, the Margaret River to Denmark road trip is a journey worth taking now, then repeating with a new set of stops next time.

Ready to plan? Start with your travel dates, book a couple of key stays, and pencil in cave tours and a long lunch. The rest is the joy of discovery, one beautiful bay and towering tree at a time.