ABOUT AMAZING ALBANY

What you can expect when you visit. The following is only a snapshot of some of the places should you care to visit, together with things of general interest.

Albany was the first established European settlement in Western Australia and is now one of the largest cities outside of Perth with a population of approximately 30,000. A thriving City, seaport and the administrative hub for the region. Albany has one of the most attractive coastline settings; endowed with an interesting history and an abundance of attractions and activities. It's about a 4.5 hour drive from Perth and less than an hour by air. It offers visitors cooler summers and mild winters.

There are so many attractions in and around Albany it is impossible to do justice to them all; that's why we invite you to tell us what interests you when making a booking, so that we can customise a break around your interests and budget! We have used visitor feedback for the places that they consider a 'must see' whilst in the area, and have listed these below (in no particular order).

Eco walks in and around the region range from 20 minutes to 4 hours and will suit different levels of fitness. The walks can be framed around different interests, for example flora, fauna, bird life and coastline. Albany's natural walking trails are at the heart of what is widely recognised as one of the most incredibly biodiverse environments for walkers anywhere in Australia. A comprehensive guide of safe walks is available on request. The guide costs $5.50 (including post and packaging).

The old convict built gaol, located in the central business area, serves as a museum and is a useful starting point for those interested in the history of the region. The restorations to the gaol have left the period features carefully preserved.  Night Tours that are both informative and "spooky" offer a unique view of Western Australia's oldest gaol. The Gap, situated in the Torndirrup National Park, is a daunting and spectacular, natural rock formation at the ocean's edge. It is located 15 minutes from the city and is a wonder of nature; created through the centuries by pounding seas. The roar and crash of the waves are an overwhelming experience.

York Street which is one of the main shopping precincts and includes a number historic buildings.

There are many clothing boutiques, gift stores, arts and crafts, newsagencies, book shops and sports, surf and outdoors specialty stores for the shopping enthusiast and a diverse selection of dining options to refuel and rest your legs in between shops.

Regular art exhibitions are held in central locations and local as well as travelling theatre and performances fill up the cultural calendar. Check out the events guide to see what is on while you’re visiting the regional city- you’ll be surprised.

The Albany region has a bountiful supply of fresh produce and you will find local farmers and the community at the Albany Farmers Market every Saturday morning in Collie Street. Many farmers open their doors to visitors and you can meet the producers and sample their produce on the rural outskirts of the city on the Go Taste Albany Trail. Albany’s position on a beautiful part of Western Australia’s southern coastline means seafood is fresh plucked from the ocean!

Whale World serves as a wonderful reminder of our grim past. It is located about 20 minutes from the City on the site of the once operational Cheynes Beach Whaling Station. The old whaling station has been transformed into a museum, and a state of the art entertaining information centre, complete with one of the original whaling vessels which you can climb all over, should you so desire. The site has been authentically preserved, capturing the atmosphere and whaling experiences of yester year, definitely a must see.

Princess Royal Fortress, built in the 19th Century because of its strategic importance in the protection of the King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour. It serves today as a military museum and heritage centre. The various items of military weaponry and heavy gun emplacements are on public display. The view from the Fort is fantastic. If you enjoy a great value hearty breakfast, look no further than the Fortress Cafe.

If old English style of Pubs is high on your agenda, you will need look no further than the 'Earl of Spencer' in the centre of Albany, it is as good as you will see and enjoy any where, complete with English beer and great meals.

The Desert Corps and War Memorial located at Mt Clarence in the heart of Albany, in the same locality as the Fort. It stands as a stark reminder of their valiant war effort and also a reminder that the Australian Army contingent departed from Albany for Gallipoli. The site also provides for some fantastic views of Princess Royal Harbour.

Brig Amity, a full scale replica of the original vessel which brought the first settlers and convicts to Albany in 1826 is located at the Harbours edge, 2 minutes walk from the City.

Cosy Corner and Shelley Beach are about a half hour from the City, as you head towards Denmark. Both are terrific beaches for fishing, picnicking and camping spots. Don't go without your camera!

The Albany Wind Farm is just 16 kilometres from the City centre, it is the site of a $43 million project which is unrivalled in Australia There are 16 turbines, perched high on their 65 metre towers, each turbine has three 35 metre blades, wider than most passenger aircraft wing spans. Even if you have no interest in technology, the wind farm provides an insight into the future in terms of environmentally friendly power generation. Well worth the visit!  From this location visitors can experience some of the most spectacular views of the Southern Ocean in this area.  This is a great location to spot marine life with specatcular views over the Southern Ocean.  It is also a popular surfing place for locals and dolphins alike.