EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

OVERVIEW

Enjoy a remarkably complete tour of Fremantle and Perth that includes a behind-the-scenes look at the Perth Mint and a relaxing cruise on the Swan River. For an introductory look at Fremantle’s twin city of Perth, you will pause at Kings Park to take in the scenery. One of the world’s largest urban parks, it overlooks one of the widest sections of the Swan River. Continuing on, you will soon arrive at the Perth Mint, which opened in 1899. You might watch pure gold heated to molten temperatures and poured into solid bars, hear tales of the mint’s history and see the world’s largest gold coin. It tips the scale at one ton, making the coin the world’s biggest, heaviest and most valuable gold bullion. You will next cruise the lovely Swan River, which will present a different perspective of Perth’s skyline.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See attractions in Freemantle and its twin city, Perth, that best represent their cultures.

• Visit Perth Mint, which distributes $18 billion worth of gold, silver and platinum annually.
• Cruise the Swan River and enjoy a different perspective of Perth’s urban landscape.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Discover the charms of Fremantle and its vivacious twin city Perth through their historical architecture and idyllic parks on the meandering Swan River. The meticulous restoration of Fremantle’s Victorian and Edwardian architecture has helped to revitalize the downtown, where you will drive from one landmark to another. It’s the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Western Australia. You will also see the even older Round House, which has 12 sides and only looks round, and Burswood Park, where you will pause for photos before continuing on to Fremantle’s twin city of Perth. With the Darling Ranges as a natural backdrop and much of the city overlooking the river, it is beautiful setting. Perth’s prosperity is evident throughout, but especially along Millionaire’s Row, which you will pass on the way to King’s Park, a serene oasis where you will enjoy free time.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the historical architecture that defines Fremantle and its twin city, Perth.
• Spend free time in Perth’s King’s Park and pass the Millionaire’s Row neighborhood.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Walk through Fremantle’s vibrant downtown, admiring historical attractions such as the city’s first jail and a revitalized area full of restaurants and shopping malls. Much of this district was constructed by British convicts that arrived in the 19th century. Ironically, they built their own prisons, including Fremantle’s oldest building, the Round House, which operated as a prison until 1886. You will also see Fremantle Prison, the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Western Australia., a designation it earned as a physical reminder of Europe’s colonial expansion through the presence and labor of convicts. Of course, there’s more to Fremantle’s past than prisons. The city is also full of Victorian and Edwardian architecture from its boom years, when gold and wheat drove the economy. Being on the water, Fremantle has a rich maritime history, much of it detailed in the Western Australian Maritime Museum. The best water views are from the Esplanade that hugs the coast.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain an understanding of how British convicts helped found Fremantle.

• See two prisons: one the city’s oldest building, the other a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Admire the Victorian and Edwardian architecture on a walk through the city.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Explore the natural charms of Rottnest Island on a guided walk and again during free time, when you may dine on your own and do most anything else you please. A ferry will bring you to Rotto as it is affectionately known. As you will discover on an introductory walk, the island is laid-back, serene and wonderfully scenic. You will learn even more on the driving tour that follows, especially with regard to the island’s history. Chances are, you will spot quokkas lazing about as the world’s largest population of these teeny marsupials live on Rotto. If you stop for a selfie with one, it is sure to be a great photo as quokkas look like they are perpetually smiling – the reason they are called “the happiest animals in the world.” Later, while exploring independently, you might relax on the beach, take a refreshing swim and enjoy the panoramic views from atop the 19th-century Wadjemup Lighthouse.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a wonderfully scenic ferry ride to Rottnest Island, which lies about 12 miles away.
• Explore the laid-back island on walking and driving tours that present the best attractions.
• Look for quokkas, small marsupials that inhabit the island in great numbers.
• Spend free time bicycling, lounging on the beach and swimming in the sea, if you please.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring a bathing suit and towel if you plan to swim.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Begin your adventure with a relaxing drive from Fremantle, heading towards the picturesque Cottesloe Beach. Here, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, taking in the serene ocean views and the vibrant beach atmosphere. Visit Kings Park in Perth, which is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful inner city parks, on the way to Swan Valley. Continue your journey to the heart of Swan Valley. Spend a delightful day savoring spectacular wines, beers and cuisine in Swan Valley, the aptly named “Valley of Taste.” This fertile area is home to dozens of wineries, including Sandalford. Founded in 1840 on the riverbanks of Swan River, it is one of the area’s largest privately owned wineries. You will sample several varietals within Sandalford’s different brands. You will then visit the prestigious Nikola Estate. Nestled among sweeping grapevines, this estate offers a premium wine tasting session that showcases the best of their meticulously crafted wines. Learn about their winemaking philosophy and savor the rich flavor that have made their wines renowned. Enjoy lunch at Nikola Estate.Be sure to leave room for dessert, as you will also stop at the Margaret River Chocolate Factory. Tastings are available as well as sweets such as handmade truffles, creamy fudge and gourmet chocolate bars.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sample wines and cuisine in nearby Swan Valley, the “Valley of Taste.”
• Visit two wineries and a celebrated lunch venue for a variety of tastings.
• Enjoy handmade sweets at a chocolate factory in Swan Valley.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Looking for a wild and exciting adventure that blends wildlife conservation and interaction? Look no further than WA Wildlife, a non-profit organization on the frontline of wildlife conservation in Western Australia. Witness the incredible work our dedicated team of veterinarians, veterinary nurses and volunteers do every day with a behind the scenes viewing of the WA Wildlife Hospital. Whilst there is no animal interaction as part of the Hospital viewing, you’ll be able to see first-hand how our team treat (and rehabilitate) sick and injured wildlife via our viewing windows. Our Surgery, Treatment Room and Wards are sound proof, so our patients can recover in peace as you learn about what we do! After your Hospital viewing, you’ll move through to our "native fauna display" where you’ll have the chance to meet and interact with some of our resident animals including, but not limited to, the majestic Alpine Dingos, Vinnie the Wombat, Emus, Reptiles, Western Ringtail and Brushtail Possums, Cockatoos and a whole host of other beautiful Birds. But that’s not all – after your wildlife meet and greet, join our experienced guide for a short scenic walk to the "floating boardwalk" at Bibra lake, where you will learn about the Beeliar Wetlands (class A nature reserve), and the wildlife that inhabit it. Don't forget, all funds raised through our education and tour programs support the WA Wildlife Hospital, so your tour fee goes directly to wildlife conservation.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit a wildlife center that rescues and rehabilitates injured and sick animals.
• Meet with the veterinary team and watch some of the animals being treated.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.