Flanked by the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean and the Great Southern Ocean, Western Australia is the country's largest state.

Getting around Western Australia is easy, with a variety of good transport options on offer. In the south-west corner are some spectacular forests of giant Jarrah and Karri trees, fantastic coastal scenery, surfing beaches and limestone caves, or the Margaret River region - well known for its excellent wines. Inland are the goldfields, where gold is still mined, and rich farming land producing much of the country's wheat. To the north are wast unspoiled beaches, coral reefs ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling, and offering an opportunity to discover some friendly wildlife like dolphins at Monkey Mia or the giant whale shark - the largest fish in the world. In the far north-west is the Kimerley region, an area of spectacular contrasts - from the coastal pearling town of Broome to the rugged ranges and lush gorges of the displays a sea of colours as wildflowers start to bloom.

Rottnest Island

Perth

Built on the banks of the magnificent Swan River, blessed with sparkling beaches and a sunny climate, Perth has a relaxed, easygoing lifestyle that makes a superb city for the visitor. It's your friendly introduction to a holiday that can be anything you want it to be.

Fast Fact

• About 1.3 million people live in Perth.
• Perth Airport is 20 km north-east of the city.
• "Transperth" bus and train services operate daily. Ferries operate regular services between Barrack Street and South Perth.
• Bus travel is free within a central free transit zone.
• The Perth Tram Explorer travels past Perth's major attractions. Alight and rejoin as you please.
• The climate is warm and temperate. Perth is Australia's sunniest capital. Average temperates: summer 29oC max, 17oC min; winter 18oC max, 8oC min. Water temperatures: summer 20oC, winter 17oC.

Do Not Miss

• Stroll through the Australian Walkabout section at the Perth Zoo.
• Enjoy the sunset from a Cottesloe restaurant while sipping on West Australia wine.
• Cruise on the Swan River - upstream to the wineries or downstream to Fremantle, Perth's bustling port city.
• Swim and play with dolphins on the coast of Western Australia - off Monkey Mia or Rockingham.
• Dive with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef.
• Walk 40 metres above the forest floor on a boardwalk winding through a grove of veteran tingle trees in the 'Valley Of The Giants' in the Walpole-Nornalup National Park.
• Drive through the magnificent Kimberley on the rugged Gibb River Road

Round House , Fremantle

Perth is a compact city that is easy to explore. Start your day with Kings Park that overlooks the city, a popular picnic area with walking trails and a 12 hectare botanical garden, famous for its spring wildflower displays. Don't miss the Wildflower Festival held in September, one of Australia's largest and most varied massed native plant displays. The park is a pleasant walk from the centre of Perth and is well served by public transport and the Perth Tram. Visit Artist in Residence, a gallery displaying and selling athentic Aborginal art.

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