Pinnacles Desert & New Norcia Day Tour From Perth

Exploring the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Western Australia, the Pinnacles Desert & New Norcia Day Tour from Perth promises an unforgettable adventure. Combining stunning natural wonders with historic significance, this full-day excursion takes travelers on a journey through Swan Valley, quaint towns, and the iconic Pinnacles Desert. Along the way, visitors will enjoy a guided tour of Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey, savor a delicious lunch, and delve deeper into the region’s unique flora and fauna. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this tour offers an intriguing blend of experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Explore the unique limestone formations of Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park on a full-day tour from Perth.
• Visit the historic Benedictine Abbey of New Norcia, established in 1846, and learn about its cultural heritage.
• Enjoy a fish and chips lunch at the New Norcia Hotel as part of the tour itinerary.
• Receive an educational talk about the diverse plant life at the Western Wildflower Farm.
• Experience a scenic drive through the Swan Valley, Guildford, and Bindoon, showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day tour from Perth takes visitors on a scenic journey through the Swan Valley, historic Guildford, and Bindoon before arriving at the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park and the Benedictine Abbey of New Norcia.

At the Pinnacles Desert, you’ll explore the captivating limestone formations that dot the landscape.

Then, you’ll visit Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey, established in 1846, and enjoy a delicious fish and chips lunch at the New Norcia Hotel.

Depending on the season, you may also witness the stunning display of wildflowers that bloom from August to December.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as admission to key sites, this tour offers a well-rounded experience exploring Western Australia’s unique natural and cultural wonders.

Inclusions and Logistics

Offering hotel pickup and drop-off within the Perth CBD, this tour departs at 8:00 am, with pickups between 7:00-7:30 am.

Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver/guide who provides live commentary throughout the day. Admission to the New Norcia Museum & Art Gallery and the Pinnacles is included, and gratuities are covered, though food and drinks not specified on the itinerary are at the participants’ own expense.

The tour experience includes a guided tour of New Norcia, where visitors can learn about the town’s unique history and browse handmade goods.

Travelers will also enjoy an educational talk at the Western Wildflower Farm and have the opportunity to walk among the limestone formations in the Pinnacles Desert.

The relaxing return drive along the coast to Perth completes the day’s activities.

Tour Experience

The tour begins with a guided exploration of the historic town of New Norcia, where visitors gain insights into the town’s unique Benedictine heritage and can browse the selection of handmade goods available for purchase.

Next, the group travels to the Western Wildflower Farm, where they learn about the region’s diverse plant life during an educational talk.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the visit to the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. Here, travelers can walk among the otherworldly limestone formations, marveling at their sheer size and unique shapes.

The relaxing drive back to Perth along the coast provides a scenic end to the day’s adventures.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

With 32 reviews and an overall rating of 4.0 stars, the tour receives largely positive feedback from customers regarding the unique experiences at New Norcia and the Pinnacles Desert.

Travelers praise the guided tour of New Norcia, which provides local insights and opportunities to purchase handmade goods. The educational talk at Western Wildflower Farm and the awe-inspiring walk among the limestone formations at Pinnacles Desert also earn high marks.

However, some critiques mention the tour’s duration, the quality of the lunch, and the time allocated at each location. Suggestions include improving meal options and allowing more time at the key sites to fully immerse in the experiences.

Tour Itinerary

The tour begins with a scenic drive through Swan Valley, historic Guildford, and Bindoon, giving travelers a glimpse of the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

Upon arrival at the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, guests will have the opportunity to explore the unique limestone formations up close, marveling at their otherworldly appearance.

Next, the tour continues to the historic town of New Norcia, home to Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey established in 1846. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the Abbey and its museum, as well as a delicious fish and chips lunch at the New Norcia Hotel.

The day concludes with a relaxing drive back to Perth along the picturesque coastline.

What to Expect

Guests can expect to be immersed in the rich history and natural wonders of Western Australia during this full-day excursion from Perth. The tour offers a captivating blend of scenic drives, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventures.

Highlights include:

• Guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey in New Norcia, Australia’s only monastic town

• Strolling among the otherworldly limestone formations of the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park

• Stopping at the Western Wildflower Farm for an educational talk about the region’s diverse flora

• Enjoying a hearty fish and chips lunch at the charming New Norcia Hotel

This immersive experience provides a well-rounded glimpse into Western Australia’s stunning landscapes and unique cultural heritage.

Planning Your Visit

Booking the tour in advance is recommended to secure availability, especially during peak seasons. Participants can choose hotel pickup or meet the group at the designated meeting point in Perth’s CBD. Arriving at the pickup location 10-15 minutes early ensures a prompt departure.

When planning your visit, consider the following:

Logistics	Details
Arrival Time	7:00 – 7:30 AM
Departure Time	8:00 AM
Duration	Full Day
Group Size	Maximum 48 travelers

The tour includes admission to the Pinnacles Desert and New Norcia Museum & Art Gallery. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, as the outdoor activities involve moderate physical activity. The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. Participants should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour’s maximum group size is 48 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

For those not opting for hotel pickup, the meeting point is the Crown Perth Food Court at 7:45 am. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the Perth CBD, with departure at 8:00 am and pickups between 7:00-7:30 am.

Admission to the New Norcia Museum & Art Gallery and the Pinnacles is included, along with an air-conditioned vehicle, driver/guide, and live commentary. Gratuities are included, but food and drinks not specified in the inclusions are at the participants’ own expense.

Visitors can expect a guided tour of New Norcia, an educational talk at the Western Wildflower Farm, and a walk among the limestone formations at the Pinnacles Desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kinds of Wildlife Can Be Seen at the Pinnacles Desert?

The Pinnacles Desert is home to a variety of small reptiles and mammals, including lizards, snakes, and kangaroos. While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, visitors may spot these native species roaming amongst the unique limestone formations.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

There are restroom facilities available at key stops during the tour, including the Pinnacles Desert and the town of New Norcia. Travelers can use the restrooms at these locations as needed throughout the day.

Can Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Be Accommodated for Lunch?

The tour provider can typically accommodate vegetarian and gluten-free dietary requirements for the included lunch. Guests should notify the operator of any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure appropriate meal options are available.

Is Photography Allowed at the New Norcia Benedictine Abbey?

Photography is generally allowed at the New Norcia Benedictine Abbey, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting religious activities. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with staff upon arrival.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Extra Activities?

Yes, there are options to extend the tour duration or add extra activities. Customers can inquire about customizing the tour itinerary to include more time at key sites or additional experiences based on their interests and preferences.

Recap

The Pinnacles Desert & New Norcia Day Tour from Perth offers an unforgettable experience, blending stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.

From exploring the unique limestone formations of Pinnacles Desert to discovering the history of Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey, this tour provides a well-rounded and enjoyable adventure for visitors.

With a delicious lunch, educational talks, and plenty of highlights, it’s a must-do excursion for those seeking to enjoy the beauty and diversity of Western Australia.