Slow down and enjoy ride in the Swan Valley
Stretching from Bell’s Rapids in the north-east to Guildford train station in the south-east, the Swan Valley is Perth’s food and wine haven.
The site of vines shortly after first settlers made their way along the river, the valley has long been recognised as home to wineries, restaurants and foodie delights.
But there is much for active travellers, families and athletes seeking a more physical journey.
MORE OUTDOORS
INSPIRATION FOR AN ACTIVE SUMMER
Cycle along West Swan Road to work up an appetite or step along a river walk trail.
And there are plenty of attractions for groups, teams and parties up for a challenge. Paintball anyone? Or minigolf?
Cyclists can take their own bike or use one of several hire firms in the region.
Wes and Rachel Brooks of Perth Electric Bike Hire starting hiring out regular bikes in 2011 and then electric bikes. Mr Brooks says the valley is a compact area to cycle through, and travelling at a slower pace allows for new discoveries.
“If you do the entire 32km loop you’ll cover the whole valley,” he says. “Most people will just do a part of that.
“If you focus on West Swan Road, you’ll do 20km maximum. And that’s allowing for a few detours here and there.
“It sounds a bit daunting but most people will ride over 10km an hour. An hour travel out and an hour travel back and (if) you allow a bit of time for lunch and ... for wine tastings and cheese tastings you can have a pretty fulfilling journey within three to four hours without working too hard.”
Mr Brooks says the regular bikes are popular among backpackers and tourists on a budget and skews towards a younger crowd. The electric bikes are more often taken up by older travellers and visitors who want to ensure they cover the distance.
“When you’re on a bike, you don’t really miss anything. Because you’re travelling 15-20km an hour or a bit faster on the electric bikes, you’re not really going fast enough to whiz by anything,” he says.
You have the opportunity to be drawn in by the business fronts or wineries that might have a bit less street presence.
Alida Watson sees demand for slower travel on the Swan Valley Wagon Tours she runs with her husband, Peter.
Ms Watson says tourists are drawn to the wagon tours because many customers, particularly children, adore the animals. And, much like cyclists, they seek a slower pace to see things unseen when driving by in a car or bus. There are also visitors who want more than a wine tour, she says.
Both operators look forward to the opening of New Lord Street and completion of the North Link project between Morley and Muchea, expected to relieve West Swan Road of heavy truck traffic and bring it more of a tourist strip pace.
This long weekend, with a hopping January vibe and a forecast for comfortable summer temperatures, is an ideal time to explore the valley at a slower pace and enjoy the fruits of your physical labour.
GAME ON
If competition is your jam, you may meet your match here.
Friend v friend, team v team is a fun way to while away a few hours in the sun.
The Vines, at the valley’s northern reaches, is known for its resort and golf course. It also has an 18-hole minigolf course.
On West Swan Road an adventure hub at Swan Valley Oasis offers Supa Golf & Adventure Putt, played with oversized golf balls and club heads. Watch as laid-back friends let their ultra competitive alter egos off the leash.
In the same complex, Laser Corps is the home of outdoor laser tag combat games complete with forts to hide behind and archery assault sessions.
Nearby Paintball Skirmish has similarly combat-themed battles but the paint is bright and the bruises are real.
The Swan Valley Adventure Centre on Yule Avenue, Middle Swan, is a haven for testing obstacles and team- building excursions.
The centre is not open for walk-ins but groups of 15 or more can book in advance to take part in kayaking, mountain biking, the flying fox and other physical challenges.
NATURAL BEAUTY
The Swan River forms the spine of the region. Its geography lends fertile land to growers and its vistas are a picturesque backdrop.
It is also a feature of the region’s parks and trails. Walk trails stretch from historic paths in Guildford to bush paths through Whiteman Park and riverside hiking tracks.
Launch a boat, kayak or paddleboard at Fishmarket Reserve near Guildford Bridge or from Lilac Hill then go upstream for views and wineries, such as Sandalford and Mandoon Estate.
Yagan Memorial Park, in Belhus, commemorates the life, death and spirit of the Noongar leader.
Woodbridge Riverside Play and Park Space is a park for families featuring an eco adventure play zone and nattily designed play equipment popular with kids big and small.
Go to swanvalley.com.au for maps and details of parks, trails and attractions.
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