Go Donnybrook

Location: 206 km south of Perth.
Population: Around 2500.
Attractions: Wineries, berry farm, The Old Goldfields Orchard, massive play park and Cider factory.
Accommodation: Hotel, motel, backpackers, B&Bs, chalets, farmstay and caravan park.
Visitor Centre: Old Railway Station, South West Highway. Tel: 08 9731 1720

Donnybrook is a rural community just 30-minutes drive from Bunbury, this is where you can go to replenish some funds before heading off for more hedonistic living. There's plenty of fruit picking work to be found. Apples, pears, stone fruit and tomatoes are just some of the local produce in this rich agricultural belt. Although the majority of work in these orchards is seasonal, orchards on the fruit processing farms have to be thinned, pruned and spread so there is work to be had for 52 weeks-a-year. Oddly enough, Donnybrook is home to the biggest free-entry Fun Park in Western Australia. The Park has play equipment for all ages - from toddlers to adults.

See the Donnybrook Visitor Centre.

Balingup

Balingup is most loved for its scenery with rolling green hills shrouded with mist in winter; acres of beautiful spring blossoms; lush orchards, glowing sunsets and spectacular night skies in summer; amazing autumn colours and warm friendly people the whole year round.

A major arts and crafts centre, the Balingup area is dotted with fruit farms, wineries, numerous galleries and curio establishments. See www.balinguptourism.com.au

Nannup

Nannup is a small village nestled amongst thick forest in the Blackwood River valley. It is only 45-mins journey from Margaret River and Busselton. This is a true naturalist's paradise with great walking tracks, canoeing, delicious food and world-class wine.

Nannup also hosts several festivals throughout the year. Neighbouring town, Balingup, is located in lush, hilly terrain and is home to an assortment of herbalists and craftspeople.

See Nannup Visitor Centre

Click here for more information about south Western Australia.