The Wheatbelt town of Narrogin is surprisingly close to Perth and makes a perfect base to spend a few days exploring the southern Wheatbelt. The area is a nature’s lovers delight with the Dryandra Woodland nearby and Foxes Lair (with its 100+ rare orchids in springtime), right in town.
Day 1
Call into the Dryandra Visitor Centre and grab local maps and handy brochure How to Spot a Numbat and start exploring the history of the local buildings on the Narrogin Heritage Walk Trail.
Enjoy lunch in town and then head off for a cultural fix at the Old Courthouse Museum or Nexis Gallery and jump in your car and drive some 22km to Dryandra Woodland where you'll enjoy the rather scenic driving and walk trails.
Right on sunset, you can take in a nocturnal wildlife tour at Barna Mia Animal Sanctuary (located in the Dryandra Woodland). Tours run most days of the week, but bookings are essential: Tel: 9881 9200 (tours commence at dusk).
This evening return to Narrogin and enjoy a meal in a historic pub such as the Cornwell Hotel, Duke of York, or Cuballing Hotel before retiring at your choice of accommodation.
Day 2
Rise early today and put on your walking boots for a leisurely early morning hike at either Foxes Lair Reserve right in town (where you'll catch the sunrise from the top of the breakaway), Railway Dam (you might be able to spot cute tortoises in the early morning), or Yornaning Dam (great for spotting birds).
If you fancy some rummaging then hit the Salvo’s in Doney Street or Dorcas Clothing on the corner of Ensign and Federal Streets, you'll never know what treasures you might uncover, but both shops close shortly after lunch.
For lunch today, head to the local supermarket and grab BBQ essentials for lunch at Gnarojin Park’s Newton House which was built to evoke a pioneer home of the early European settlers.
After lunch stroll the Centenary Path along the creek, the Noongar Dreaming Path, designed by Aboriginal artist Jerry Morrison depicting Narrogin's Noongar culture.
This afternoon take a 30km leisurely drive to the award-winning Downderry Winery and sample some amazing Wheatbelt wines. Open Friday to Monday from 11am - 4pm or by appointment (0427 814 903).
For the more adventurous, you might like to climb Yilliminning Rock. Take the drive trail on the way out and stop at George Brockway Tree, 11km east of the Visitor Centre. Definitely pack your camera, water and snacks.