Perth/Swan Valley

The Swan Valley is an area that is in the northeast part of metropolitan Perth. It is defined by the Swan River which passes through it, and the Darling Scarp which lies on its eastern boundary.

Understand
The Swan River was the main access for early access to the coastal plain between Fremantle and the hills that lay to the east of Perth. As a result, all very early European land holdings were aligned to the river. Guildford was established before Perth, and the valley had the earliest farms and founding families located in the area.

History
The area around Guildford and the Swan Valley was the location of some of the earliest settlements in Western Australia. Old wineries, old pubs and old churches give an idea of the history of the valley.

By car
Starting from the Swan Valley Tourist information centre in Guildford (not far from the railway station), it is possible to do a round drive by proceeding north along West Swan Road, up to where it links with the Great Northern Highway, and back down to Midland or Guildford. The signs and maps indicate a large number of wineries, and other attractions and businesses along this route.

By train and bus
From Perth, take the train to Bassendean or Midland. These are the main railway stations near the valley, and they have connecting bus services into the valley.

By coach tour
Coach tours from Perth include winery visits for tastings, and stopping at various places for food and drink options. There is also a hop-on, hop-off shuttle service that travels around the Swan Valley between Wednesday and Sunday, giving the opportunity to visit wineries without having to drive.

By river cruise
Leaving Perth, river cruise boats travel along the Swan Valley, and in most cases coincide with coach transport to various wineries. It is possible to go on a morning cruise, a coach winery tour, and a return cruise to Perth.

Get around
As most semi-rural areas in Australia, the car is the best vehicle to explore the Swan Valley.

Do
The Swan Valley is known for its vineyards, many with restaurants and cellar door sales available.

Along the Great Northern Highway:
 * Houghtons Wines. This winery provides a popular spot for a picnic.
 * Oakover wines
 * Jarrah Ridge
 * Sitella
 * Highway
 * Talijancich
 * Carilley Estate
 * Olive Farm
 * Feral Brewing
 * Lancaster Wines

Along Toodyay Road:
 * Garbin Estate
 * Jane Brook

Along West Swan Road:
 * Edgecombe
 * Henley Park
 * Wild Swan
 * Black Swan
 * The Margaret River Chocolate Factory
 * Sandalford Wines
 * Lilac Hill estate wines
 * Ironbark brewery
 * Riverbank Estate wines

Drink
The Swan Valley is known for its abundant wineries, but you will also find a number of boutique breweries, distilleries and specialist coffee roasters.



Go next

 * Perth/The Suburbs
 * Perth Hills