Donnelly River Village

Donnelly River Village is a charming, secluded settlement deep in the Warren National Park of Western Australia's South West. Once a bustling timber town, it's now a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering karri and jarrah forests, with the serene Donnelly River meandering through the property. This is a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature, with accommodation in historic cottages and an abundance of wildlife, including the famous local quokkas.

Highlights & What to See

• Quokka Spotting: Donnelly River is one of the best places to see quokkas in the wild. These friendly marsupials are abundant around the village, especially near the river and at dusk.
• Canoeing on the Donnelly River: Hire a canoe and paddle the peaceful, tea-coloured waters. The river is calm and perfect for beginners, with chances to spot freshwater turtles, fish, and birds.
• Warren National Park Walks: Explore walking trails through ancient forests, including the short Karri Forest Walk and the longer Bibbulmun Track section that passes through the village.
• Historic Timber Town: Visit the old timber mill site and learn about the area's logging history at the small museum. The village retains its original workers' cottages, now renovated as accommodation.
• Swimming & Picnicking: The river has several sandy spots perfect for a refreshing dip. Pack a picnic and enjoy the tranquil setting.

Suggested Time to Spend

Donnelly River Village is best enjoyed as a relaxed overnight stay. Arrive mid-afternoon, settle into your cottage, and spend the evening canoeing, walking, and quokka-watching. A two-night stay allows you to fully unwind, explore the forest walks, and even take a day trip to nearby attractions. If you're short on time, a few hours can still give you a taste of the village's charm, but you'll wish you'd stayed longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Pemberton: Just a 30-minute drive north, this town is the gateway to the Gloucester Tree climbing experience and the stunning Gloucester National Park.
• D'Entrecasteaux National Park: South of Donnelly River, this park features dramatic coastline, including the Yeagarup Dunes and Point D'Entrecasteaux lighthouse.
• Augusta & Cape Leeuwin: About 1.5 hours south, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet. Climb the lighthouse and explore the Margaret River region.
• Manjimup: A 40-minute drive east, known for the Diamond Tree and the Manjimup Heritage Park, offering more forest adventures and local produce.

Please check official sources for current details.