9 Western Australian Road Trips That Will Take Your Breath Away

This mighty state is huge and bloody spectacular.

1. The indulgent South West winery trail

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Approximate distance: 155 kilometres (Bunbury to Cape Leeuwin)

What to see and do: Tasting wine at world-class wineries and feasting on mouth-watering local produce is a must, but the South West region has many other highlights including beautiful surf beaches, artisan galleries, limestone caves, whale watching, and the famous Cape to Cape Track.

2. The classic Indian Ocean drive

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Approximate distance: 225 kilometres (Perth to Geraldton)

What to see and do: It's not just about the glistening waters of the Indian Ocean, there's also the impressive Lancelin sand dunes and the mysterious cluster of Pinnacles in the Nambung National Park. Fit in a spot of skydiving at Jurien Bay and take a scenic flight from Geraldton to the Houtman Abrolhos Islands.

3. The kaleidoscopic Coral Coast adventure

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Approximate distance: 1250 kilometres (Perth to Exmouth)

What to see and do: Prepare yourself for an onslaught of colour during this drive: be amazed by the pink waters of the Hutt Lagoon, the earthy red tones of Kalbarri National Park, and the swirling rainbow of coral. If you're after unforgettable wildlife encounters, you're in luck because here you can get up close with the wild dolphins of Monkey Mia and swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef.

4. The true blue Aussie expedition up north

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Approximate distance: 2810 kilometres (Perth to Broome)

What to see and do: For the ultimate road trip, follow the Coral Coast and make your way up north to Karijini National Park for a West Australian outback experience. Admire the long stretch of sand at Eighty Mile Beach, hop on a camel at sunset on Cable Beach, and time your visit to coincide with the Staircase to the Moon natural phenomenon.

5. The majestic Great Southern escape

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Approximate distance: 1065 kilometres (Perth to Esperance)

What to see and do: Go truffle hunting at Manjimup, get lost in the Great Southern forests of Pemberton, visit the stunning Elephant Rocks in Denmark, swim at the picturesque Little Beach in Albany and be dazzled by the white sands of Lucky Bay near Esperance. If you have time, view the incredible bubblegum-pink Lake Hillier by air.

6. The romantic Avon Valley weekend getaway

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Approximate distance: 395 kilometres (Perth to Norcia loop)

What to see and do: Visit WA's oldest national park, John Forrest National Park, and explore the historic townships of York, Northam, and Toodyay before making your way to New Norcia, the only monastic town in Australia.

7. The historic Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail

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Approximate distance: 650 kilometres (Mundaring Weir to Kalgoorlie)

What to see and do: The well-marked Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail follows the original water pipeline originally constructed to supply water to the goldfields of Kalgoorlie. Explore the water pump stations and golden horizons of the Wheatbelt region, and prepare yourself for a history lesson along the way.

8. The intrepid Golden Quest Discovery Trail

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Approximate distance: 965 kilometres (Coolgardie to Laverton loop)

What to see and do: Take a journey through Australia's Golden Outback: brush up on your gold rush knowledge in Coolgardie, stop by the quintessential outback pub in Kookynie, and explore fascinating Gwalia, now a ghost town. Don't forget to visit Lake Ballard, home to the world's largest outdoor art gallery created by artist Antony Gormley.

9. The ferry ride to Rottnest Island

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Approximate distance: A 30-minute ferry ride from Perth

What to see and do: Okay, so it's technically not a road trip, but there's no denying that this is one of the best day trips Perth has to offer. This vehicle-free island paradise is popular for good reason. Book a year in advance if you want to stay overnight and get ready for your quokka close-up.