Pull on the Hiking Boots and throw on a puffer jacket and woolly scarf!
Within 90 minutes’ drive of Perth and only 25 minutes of Bunbury, you are ready to play in the rolling green hills, bursting citrus orchards, and windswept beaches of the Harvey Region.
There’s no shortage of cool-weather adventures and events to be had. And once you’re done with your day’s activities, you can cosy up by the fire with a red wine and a book in hand!
The Harvey Region boasts breathtaking scenery that truly comes alive in the winter months. From leisurely strolls through frost-kissed orchards to invigorating hikes in nearby national parks, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to explore.
1. Three Dams Adventures
Head off on a dam-seeking adventure on the Three Dams Scenic Gravel Drive and discover how the Harvey Region supplies a large share of Western Australia’s drinking and irrigation water.
This 67km drive takes you to crystal blue waters of Logue Brook Dam (hint: the scones at nearby Lake Brockman Cafe are to die for), the hidden dam of Stirling, and finishes off at Harvey Dam where you can climb the massive dam walk. End your journey with a picnic at Gibbs Pool.
2. Peddle Power – Rounds 2 & 3 Harvey Winter Teams Series 2024
The streets of Harvey will come alive with road cyclists for 2024 Harvey Winter Teams Series.
Hosted by the Peel Districts Cycle Club, Round 2 kicks of on Sunday 23 June, with Round 3 finishing the competition on the 28 July 2024 (note: changed from 21 July). The course starts at Young Street and winds through Harvey’s scenic orange groves, farmland and heritage estates.
With plenty of viewing opportunities for spectators, riders will travel along Korijekup Avenue, Third Street, River Road, and Government Road, and finally return to the Harvey main street via Uduc Road.
3. Beachcombing Bliss
Visit the beaches, anyway. There is something magical about a walk along a windswept beach when there is no one else there. Just you and the natural universe.
Admire the coast from Valentine’s or Binningup Beach lookouts – the sunsets are breathtaking.
Those that don’t feel the cold, can throw on a wet-suit and hit the waves at Weedies break.
4. Climb the Big Orange
Get a bird eye view of the orange groves of Harvey. The Big Orange at Harvey River Estate sits atop a 10-metre tower with an additional 4-metre (62 steps) climb to a viewing platform inside the orange. The development of Harvey’s famous citrus industry began in 1896 and continues today. Navel oranges are seedless, easy to peel, juice and taste great. They are available from June to October. Valencia oranges are great for juicing and are in season from October to March.
Afterwards, enjoy a wine tasting in their cellar door. Our winter recommendation is the 2021 Barbera, which received 93 points from Erin Larkin for the Halliday Wine Companion. The aroma offers a mix of red fruits, along with hints of cigar and lightly spiced currants.
5. Outdoor Lakeside Adventures 
Credit: @zaylatwineTry your luck in snagging a trout (just make sure you remember your permit), rug up for a kayak, hike endless Jarrah forest or hit the world-famous Munda Biddi Trail. Lake Brockman–otherwise known as Logue Brook Dam– and Harvey Dam are incredible holiday spots that also offer countless winter activities for the outdoor types.
After a day of adventures, check into a cosy cabin or glamping tent at Lake Brockman Tourist Park. At night, find your beanie and spend time around the campfire with a local red. In the morning, wake up for breakfast surrounded by nature.
6. Hug Big Haddy
After a long, long summer, the forest is coming alive again. Head to the Harris River State Forest at Mornington to hug the Big Tree or Big Haddy as he’s colloquially known. Located on Big Tree Road (gravel), the Jarrah Hadfield is more than 10 metres in circumference and over 260 years old. Try wrapping your arms around that! This impressive Jarrah specimen is on the National Register of Big Trees.
If you’re up for further exploring, take the Beela – Big Tree Scenic Drive.
7. Hit the Harris Track
Make the most of the cooler weather and tackle the 18km return Harris Track between the Leschenault Estuary and the Indian Ocean.
The path winds through Tuart and Peppermint woodland along the coastal dune ridge. Along the path, you may see kangaroos, western ringtail and brushtail possums, lizards and many birds, including Carnaby’s black cockatoo, pelicans and the black-shouldered kite. Bottlenose dolphins are also regular visitors to waters at The Cut.
If you’re keen to stretch your legs further – then attempt the Harvey Hike Trail or the nearby Eaton Australind Historic Trail.
8. Inspire The Lioness
Unleash your adventurous spirit by gathering your friends and taking a drive to Mornington Adventure Camp to immerse yourself in a weekend getaway on the 26-28 July 2024. Inspire the Lioness is Mornington Adventure Camp’s second annual women’s getaway and provides the opportunity to be inspired and uplifted in a Christian environment while having the opportunity for friendship, fun and adventure.
9. Meet the Super-Cute Farm Animals
Enjoy a slice of country life and make some new furry friends at Harvey Farm Barn in Cookernup (just 10 minutes from Harvey). Rabbits, guinea pigs, Highland cattle, goats, ponies, and lambs are just a few of the super-cute farm animals you will meet on a self-guided walking tour. This winter, Harvey Farm Barn is hosting a family fun day on the 23 June, complete with train rides, guided educational tours, and play activities. It’s also open on the 29th and 30th of June.
To really immerse yourself in farm life, then book a weekend at one of our legendary farmstays.
10. Ride The Ale Trail
Ride from tavern to tavern on this favourite cycling trail from Brunswick to Wokalup and reward yourself with a crisp ale and mouthwatering pub lunch at the end.
The Brunswick to Wokalup Ale Cycling Trail is a 24km road cycling route takes riders from the historic Brunswick Tavern to The Wokalup Tavern & Brugan Brewery in Wokalup through the Region’s back roads. Along the way, take in the stunning views over the Harvey Region’s hinterland with the Darling Scarp in the background. Pass the Benger Swamp and many heritage dairy properties – make sure you say hi to the cows! Want more, try to Hills & Happy Cows Cycling Trail.
11. Go Forest Exploring
Embrace the cool and experience a section of the famous Munda Biddi and Bibbulmun Tracks with Forest Explorers. Grab three friends and let Forest Explorers provide you with comfortable, accredited 4WD trail transfers to either trail. Your MTB bike can come too!
If a shorter trail is more appealing, head to the Wildflower Ridge Walk, located north of Harvey. Wander through grass trees, bushland and rocky outcrops as you enjoy the breathtaking views from the ridge on this 1.4 km circuit.
12. Horsing Around in the Pines
Take a serene horseback ride through the beautiful Myalup Pines. Begin at the Old Coast Road Brewery; a fantastic spot for a refreshing drink or lunch, with horse float parking, horse yards, and troughs.
From the Brewery, take the southern limestone path to reach the 10th Light Horse Bridle Trail, loop around the pine forest or take one of the narrow bush trails that crisis cross the forest for an adventure surrounded by tall pine trees.
So embrace the chill, and head outdoors in the Harvey Region this winter.
