Great Southern Wineries

Stretching across Western Australia's rugged south coast, the Great Southern wine region is a hidden gem for oenophiles and nature lovers alike. This cool-climate area, one of Australia's largest geographically, produces outstanding riesling, shiraz, and cabernet sauvignon, with a distinct maritime influence that gives the wines a crisp, elegant character. Beyond the cellar doors, you'll find ancient forests, dramatic coastlines, and a laid-back food scene that celebrates local produce. Whether you're a dedicated wine buff or just enjoy a good glass with a view, the Great Southern offers a relaxed, authentic escape from the tourist trail.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Barker – The spiritual home of Great Southern wine, with iconic producers like Plantagenet and West Cape Howe. The rolling hills and historic stone buildings make for a picturesque tasting tour.
• Porongurup Range – A stunning national park with granite peaks, ancient karri forests, and walking trails that reward with panoramic views. The Porongurup wine sub-region is known for its elegant rieslings.
• Denmark – A charming coastal town with a vibrant food scene, from artisan bakeries to farm-to-table restaurants. Pair a wine tasting at Singlefile Wines with a stroll along Ocean Beach.
• Albany – Western Australia's oldest European settlement, rich in history and natural beauty. Visit the National Anzac Centre, then explore the rugged Torndirrup National Park with its blowholes and granite formations.
• Frankland River – A remote sub-region known for powerful shiraz and riesling. The Frankland River Wine Trail takes you through family-run wineries with stunning views over the river valley.

Suggested Time to Spend

To fully experience the Great Southern Wineries, plan for at least three to four days. This allows you to explore the main sub-regions (Mount Barker, Denmark, and Frankland River) without rushing, with time for walks in the Porongurup Range and a day along the Albany coast. A week would let you add a side trip to the Stirling Range or the Valley of the Giants tree-top walk near Walpole. The region is best visited between October and April when the weather is warm and the vineyards are in full swing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Stirling Range National Park – Known for its dramatic peaks and wildflower displays, just an hour's drive north of Albany.
• Walpole & the Valley of the Giants – Famous for the Tree Top Walk among towering tingle trees, 90 minutes west of Denmark.
• Margaret River – Western Australia's most famous wine region, about three hours' drive north-west, worth combining for a broader wine tour.
• Esperance & Cape Le Grand National Park – Stunning white-sand beaches and granite outcrops, about four hours east of Albany.
• Pemberton – A small town surrounded by karri forests and waterfalls, two hours north-west of Denmark.

Please check official sources for current details.