Kalamunda

Perched on the Darling Scarp just 25 km east of Perth, Kalamunda is the gateway to the Perth Hills and the start of the Bibbulmun Track. This former timber town retains a relaxed, artsy vibe with a main street lined with galleries, antique shops, and cafés serving excellent coffee. The real drawcard is the surrounding national parks—towering jarrah and marri forests, wildflower displays in spring, and breathtaking city and ocean views from the escarpment.

Highlights & What to See

• Bibbulmun Track – Australia's premier long-distance walk; even a short section from Kalamunda offers a taste of its beauty through forests and granite outcrops.
• Kalamunda National Park – Easily accessible walks like the Piesse Gully Walk lead to waterfalls after rain; look for kangaroos and parrots.
• Kalamunda History Village – A charming open-air museum with original buildings that tell the story of the timber and orchard industries.
• Zig Zag Scenic Drive & Lookout – Drive the historic railway alignment for panoramic views over Perth city and the coast at sunset.
• Stirk Park & Kalamunda Water Tower – A leafy park with a heritage water tower and weekend farmers market (Sundays) for local produce.
• Lesmurdie Falls – A short drive away, this seasonal waterfall cascades over granite cliffs; the walk from the top lookout is rewarding.

Suggested Time to Spend

Kalamunda itself can be explored in a few hours—wander the main street, visit the history village, and have lunch. For walkers, plan a half-day to tackle a section of the Bibbulmun Track or explore Kalamunda National Park. If you include nearby Lesmurdie Falls and a scenic drive, a full day is ideal. Many visitors use Kalamunda as a base for 2–3 days to explore the wider Perth Hills, with its wineries, orchards, and wildflower trails.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mundaring – Home to the historic Mundaring Weir and the start of the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail.
• John Forrest National Park – Western Australia's oldest national park, with waterfalls, tunnels, and picnic spots.
• Serpentine National Park – Famous for Serpentine Falls and spring wildflowers, about 30 minutes south.
• Perth Hills Wine Region – Boutique wineries in the Swan Valley and around the hills; combine with a tasting tour.
• Armadale – Gateway to the Dwellingup forests and the historic Armadale Settlers' Common.

Please check official sources for current details.