Nannup

Nestled in the heart of the South West, Nannup is a charming historic timber town that feels like a well-kept secret. With its tree-lined main street, meandering Blackwood River, and a backdrop of towering karri and jarrah forests, this is a place where you can truly slow down and breathe. The creative community has breathed new life into old buildings, filling them with galleries, quirky shops, and exceptional food. Whether you're cycling the famous Munda Biddi Trail, paddling the river, or simply sipping a coffee on the verandah of the old pub, Nannup offers a genuine taste of rural Western Australian life.

Highlights & What to See

• Nannup Heritage Trail – A self-guided walk past beautifully preserved timber cottages, the old railway station, and the historic Nannup Hotel, each with its own story.
• Blackwood River – Perfect for a peaceful canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. The river is calm and lined with paperbarks, and you might spot black swans or kangaroos on the banks.
• Munda Biddi Trail – One of Australia's great off-road cycling trails passes right through town. You can tackle a short section or hire a bike for a day ride through towering forests.
• St. John's Church – A lovely stone church built in 1863, with a serene surrounding garden that invites quiet reflection.
• Nannup Art & Craft Centre – Housed in the old convent, this centre showcases local works and offers a glimpse into the town's vibrant creative scene.
• Nannup Lavender Farm – Just out of town, wander through fragrant rows of lavender and pick up handmade oils and soaps.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give Nannup at least a full day and one night – the town is compact enough to explore on foot in a few hours, but the surrounding forest and river deserve more time. Arrive early, take the heritage walk before lunch, then spend the afternoon on the river or cycling. Many visitors stay two nights to fully unwind, especially if they're combining it with nearby national parks. The pace here is deliberately slow, so don't rush.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bridgetown – A 25-minute drive north, this historic town is known for its weekend markets, antique shops, and the Geocaching capital of Australia.
• Pemberton – About 50 minutes south, famous for its towering karri forests, the Gloucester Tree climb, and excellent wineries.
• Warren National Park – Just beyond Pemberton, this park protects ancient forests and offers the Heartbreak Trail for a scenic drive among giants.
• Margaret River – An hour west, the region's food-and-wine epicentre with world-class surf, caves, and gourmet produce.
• Augusta & Cape Leeuwin – A 90-minute drive southwest, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet, with the historic lighthouse and stunning coastal walks.
• Dwellingup – About 2 hours north, another timber town with the Hotham Valley Railway and excellent mountain biking trails.

Please check official sources for current details.