Full Day Pinnacles Desert and New Norcia

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Western Australia’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This full-day tour immerses visitors in the otherworldly beauty of the Pinnacles Desert and the captivating history of the Benedictine town of New Norcia. From exploring the impressive Abbey architecture to uncovering the town’s fascinating past, this excursion promises a well-rounded experience that will leave you eager to uncover more. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the diverse wonders that this region has to offer.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Full-Day Tours In Perth.

Contents hide

1 Overview of the Tour

2 Exploring New Norcia

3 Historical Significance of New Norcia

4 Key Sites in New Norcia

5 Visiting the Produce Shop and Hotel

6 Discovering the Pinnacles Desert

7 Exploring the National Park

8 Transportation and Inclusions

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

• This full-day tour combines the otherworldly Pinnacles Desert with a guided exploration of New Norcia, Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey town.

• Visitors can discover New Norcia’s rich history, visit the Museum and Art Gallery, tour the Abbey Church, and dine at the local hotel.

• The tour includes entry fees to the key sites in New Norcia and a complimentary hotel pick-up, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

• Visitors can explore the mesmerizing landscape of the Pinnacles Desert, a geological marvel sculpted over thousands of years.

• The tour provides an opportunity to immerse in the local culture, sample regional produce, and capture stunning photographs of the diverse landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

This full-day tour combines the awe-inspiring Pinnacles Desert with the historical and cultural significance of New Norcia, Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey town.

Priced from $164.86 per person, the 11.5-hour excursion provides an immersive experience exploring these two distinct destinations.

Guests will enjoy a guided tour of New Norcia, where they’ll visit the Museum and Art Gallery, Abbey Church, and St Gertrude’s College. They’ll also have the opportunity to browse the produce shop and dine at the New Norcia Hotel.

At the Pinnacles Desert, part of Nambung National Park, visitors can walk among the iconic limestone pillars and learn more at the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre.

Complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off complete this comprehensive tour.

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Exploring New Norcia

As part of the tour, visitors are treated to a guided exploration of New Norcia, Australia’s sole Benedictine Abbey town steeped in historical, artistic, and architectural significance.

The tour takes guests through the town’s key sites, including the Museum and Art Gallery which houses a remarkable collection of religious artifacts and Aboriginal art. The Abbey Church is another highlight, featuring the impressive Moser organ. Visitors can also tour St Gertrude’s College, a historic educational institution.

Throughout the tour, guests have the opportunity to visit the town’s produce shop and enjoy lunch at the renowned New Norcia Hotel, seeing the unique monastic atmosphere of this remarkable Australian destination.

Historical Significance of New Norcia

New Norcia’s historical significance stems from its status as Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey town, a distinction that has imbued the community with a rich tapestry of religious, cultural, and architectural heritage.

Established in 1846 by Spanish Benedictine monks, the town’s Abbey Church, with its impressive Moser organ, and St Gertrude’s College are just a few of the iconic buildings that showcase the region’s artistic and architectural significance.

The town’s museum and art gallery also house a vast collection of historical artifacts and works, offering visitors a glimpse into the community’s past.

This unique blend of history, faith, and culture makes New Norcia a truly distinctive and captivating destination.

Key Sites in New Norcia

The Abbey Church, with its impressive Moser organ, is one of the key sites that visitors can explore during a guided tour of New Norcia.

The town’s Museum and Art Gallery also houses a vast collection of historical artifacts and artworks, offering an in-depth look into the community’s rich cultural heritage.

Plus, St Gertrude’s College, a significant educational institution, is another notable landmark that showcases the architectural and artistic significance of New Norcia.

The tour also provides opportunities to:

Visit the produce shop and sample the local goods.
Enjoy a meal at the New Norcia Hotel.
Gain a deeper understanding of the Benedictine Abbey’s influence on the town’s development.

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Visiting the Produce Shop and Hotel

Along With exploring the cultural and architectural highlights, visitors can browse the produce shop and enjoy a meal at the New Norcia Hotel.

The produce shop offers an array of locally-sourced goods, including breads, jams, and other specialty items made by the Benedictine community. Visitors can sample and purchase these products as mementos of their visit.

The New Norcia Hotel, located in the heart of the town, serves up classic Australian fare and provides a charming setting to relax and refuel. Whether grabbing a quick snack or settling in for a leisurely lunch, the produce shop and hotel offer unique opportunities to take in the local culture and hospitality of New Norcia.

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Discovering the Pinnacles Desert

Pinnacles Desert, a captivating natural wonder, is part of the expansive Nambung National Park. These remarkable formations, sculpted over thousands of years, create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere that fascinates all who witness it.

Visitors can explore this unique landscape, dotted with iconic limestone pillars reaching several meters in height.

The tour allows ample time to take in the desert’s splendor. Guests can:

Embark on an easy-paced walk through the mesmerizing landscape.
Visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre to learn more about this geological marvel.
Capture stunning photographs to immortalize their experience in this extraordinary desert.

Exploring the National Park

After exploring the Pinnacles Desert, visitors can further enjoy the wonders of Nambung National Park.

The park encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, from the iconic limestone formations to coastal dunes and bushland teeming with unique flora and fauna. Visitors can embark on easy-paced walks and discover the park’s hidden gems.

The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre offers interpretive displays that provide insights into the formation and significance of the limestone pillars.

Whether it’s marveling at the otherworldly landscape or learning about the park’s ecology, Nambung National Park offers a captivating and enriching experience for all who venture there.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour provides complimentary hotel pick-up from selected Perth CBD, Northbridge, and Scarborough hotels, and returns visitors to Perth down the Indian Ocean Drive, arriving around 7:30 PM.

The tour includes:

Lunch at the New Norcia Hotel, giving guests a chance to sample the local produce.
Entry fees to all the key sites, including the Museum and Art Gallery, Abbey Church, and St Gertrude’s College.
Complimentary hotel pick-up, ensuring a hassle-free start to the day.

With these inclusions, the full-day Pinnacles Desert and New Norcia tour provides a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors exploring the natural wonders and historic town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for walking in the desert environment. No formal attire is required.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, a light lunch is included in the tour price, so you may not need additional snacks. Be mindful of any national park rules about permitted items.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair accessible, with accessible transportation and facilities in New Norcia. However, the Pinnacles Desert may have some uneven terrain that could present challenges for wheelchair users. It’s best to check with the tour operator for full details.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Absolutely, guests are encouraged to take photos throughout the tour. The stunning scenery and historical sites provide excellent photo opportunities to capture memories of the day’s experiences.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join, though parents should consider the long duration and ensure their children are able to participate comfortably throughout the day.