5 Winter Walks

5 Winter walks

Including short family-friendly strolls

Winter is one of the most beautiful times to explore the Margaret River Region on foot. With crisp mornings, fresh coastal air and lush forests, the cooler months are perfect for slowing down and discovering the South West’s scenic walking trails.

It’s hard to narrow down the region’s best winter strolls, but we’ve rounded up some of our favourite easy walks and coastal trails for families visiting this winter.

Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock

Discover the rugged beauty of the coastline with a scenic walk between Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Sugarloaf Rock. This accessible 3.5km stretch of the Cape to Cape Track offers sweeping ocean views, fresh sea air and a smooth pathway suitable for walkers of all abilities, including prams and wheelchairs.

Prefer a shorter stroll? Start from Sugarloaf Rock and walk north towards the lighthouse, turning around when you’re ready. This end offers the most dramatic coastal scenery, with a scenic lookout where you can snap a few photos of one of the region’s most iconic landmarks.

White Elephant Cafe to Surfers Point

Have breakfast with a beach view at White Elephant Cafe then take a scenic stroll along the coastline towards Surfers Point, one of the region’s most iconic surf breaks. This beautiful coastal walk offers sweeping ocean views and front-row seats to the powerful Indian Ocean swells that have shaped Margaret River’s surf culture since the 1950s.

During winter, the coastline truly comes alive as world-class surfers tackle the famous main break waves. Rug up, enjoy the sea breeze and watch the action unfold from the comfort of dry land.

Prevelly Sculpture Art Trail

When the weather clears, this sculpture walking trail is the perfect way to soak up the cool coastal breeze while exploring one of the region’s most scenic coastal walks. This easy 3km loop combines striking ocean views with a playful collection of wooden sculptures, including some of our favourites Layla and The Stick, scattered along the trail, adding a touch of whimsy for walkers of all ages.

Overlooking Gnarabup Beach and the mouth of the Margaret River, the trail showcases the South West’s vibrant public art culture, where creativity can be found everywhere from coastal paths to town laneways.

Boranup Forest

Located a short 25-minute drive south of Margaret River, Boranup Forest is one of those rare places that takes your breath away. Towering karri trees stretch skyward, their canopies covering a forest floor alive with wildflowers, early orchids, and seasonal fungi, all framed by the soft scent of native peppermint trees.

Whether you choose to slowly meander along the stunning Boranup Drive, suitable for all vehicles thanks to its firm limestone base, or step out for a short walk along one of the peaceful bush trails, the forest is a true wonder for all nature lovers.

Barrett St Weir

Tucked on the edge of town and accessed through Margaret River’s Old Settlement Precinct, the Barrett Street Weir loop is a peaceful 1km trail that is perfect for those chasing a relaxing stroll. The trail winds through native bushland, offering glimpses of local birdlife, seasonal wildflowers and the weir.

With a wide, well-defined gravel path, this easy loop takes around 25-30 minutes to complete. Not too long for kids – especially with the promise of Margaret River Bakery treats at the end.

Looking for a walk closer to home, during your Mandalay holiday?

Here in Busselton you can’t go past a walk to the end of the Busselton Jetty, which is a total 3.6km return journey. It’s a few dollars during the day, or free after closing time. Wear a warm coat, as it’s often much windier towards the end.

We’re also big fans of beach walks in winter – feeling the wind whip through your hair, the smell of the salty air and the warm water compared to the chilly sand. Directly opposite Mandalay you’ll find a beautiful beach stretching far in both directions – take a sunrise stroll as far as you wish, then come home for a hot shower and coffee after.

Up for a longer walk? It’s 5km from Mandalay Resort into Busselton town along the foreshore, with Geographe Bay views the whole way. Walk into town for breakfast at The Goose, lunch at INARA or pre-sunset drinks before heading home.