Winter is here - but don't let the wet weather stop you from your next getaway. The colder months in Western Australia showcase a different, prettier side of the Pemberton wine region. From whales playing along the coast to cosy crackling fires and dewy forest mornings, it might be the best time to discover the southwest charm.
Minimal crowds and accommodation specials also make for an unmissable and affordable holiday. Relaxing and impressively beautiful, it’s a good excuse to rug up, escape everyday life and connect with loved ones over a more personal experience.
Whether for family holidays or romantic escapes, the allure of Pemberton in winter is hard to deny.
Pack your wellies and let’s go!
1. Cosy Cellar Doors
Pemberton, a paradise in southwest WA, is tucked away in the heart of the forests and valleys. The best part is, Pemberton makes the perfect base for exploring the richness of the region with charming small towns like Manjimup and Karri Valley less than 20 minutes away. Each boasts a different vibe, cool-climate wines to keep you warm, and craft beer breweries.
Why not soak up the taste of winter with warm hearty meals and delicious red wine?
Whether it’s a cosy corner at a brewery or a peaceful cellar door with a view, there’s something for all taste buds to savour.
Add these to your list:
Mountford Wines: Stave off the wintery chill with the best winter wines. We take advantage of Pemberton’s unique flavour potential and produce carbon-positive wines and cider. If you’re in the mood for incredible views and art gallery gazing, head upstairs for the latest display by local artists.
Ampersand Estate: Go for the wine, stay for the rainfall-infused distillery and lakeside scene. Especially ideal for couples looking for boutique accommodation stumbling distance from the cellar door!
Tall Timbers Brewing Co: Craft beer lovers, this one's for you. Brewed on-site with an eclectic mix of world-renowned local produce to sink your teeth into, Tall Timbers Manjimup offers a relaxed restaurant, brewing and tasting experience.
Hidden River Estate: Wine and dining at its finest. Make sure you go with an empty belly to take full advantage of their seasonal menu, which focuses on local cuisine and is influenced by European and Middle Eastern flavours.
Jaspers Pemberton: Whiskey and wine lovers wanting an intimate atmosphere can’t miss this rustic bar to escape the winter chill. Think freshly prepared food and a world-class menu paired with whiskey, beers, wine and luxurious accommodation, you won’t want to leave this spot in the heart of Pemberton.
Ampersand Estate
2. Winter Hikes
Winter might be wet and miserable for some. Luckily, the Pemberton wine region is bursting with country charm and activities to keep you toasty. For adventure seekers, there are plenty of options for trails, kayaking, canoeing, horse riding, fishing and more all within reach.
Beedelup National Park
Get your heart rate up with these winter experiences:
Beedelup Falls: When the falls are in full force, the rocky cascades come alive with breathtaking views. Beedelup Falls is only a short walk from the carpark or venture on a longer trail through Beedelup National Park and see the hidden natural wonders you can find along the way.
Ancient Forests: Get close to nature and the 130-year-old Karri trees in forests filled with hiking trails and towering trees, the tallest in the world.
Cascades: An impressive waterfall that flows from the Lefroy Brook with a series of forested pools and rocks that come alive in winter and spring.
Yeargup Dunes: Four-wheel drive out to the south side of D'Entrecasteaux National Park where you can camp, wander along the water and set your eyes on a visual feast of dunes wedged between giant forests and wetlands.
If you’d prefer to stay dry, there are magnificent scenic drives and road trips to explore from the comfort of your car too.
Lake Beedelup | RAC Karri Valley Resort
3. Romantic Getaway
There’s something magical about winter and snuggling by the fire with a bottle of red. The smell of rain falling over the forest, hot coffee in the morning and a cosy, exclusive getaway for two. Pemberton and Karri Valley are dream destinations for nature-loving couples. Choose from secluded charming cabins, 5-star luxurious retreats and eco tents for something different.
Additionally, there are various options for evening eats, entertainment, and winter events to amuse you.
Karri Valley Hideaway | The Nest
Karri Valley Hideaway: Charming, comfortable cottages nestled amongst the Karri, Marri and Peppermint trees with lake views. Depending on your budget and needs, there are 6 to choose from with The Nest a top pick offering a private spa overlooking the forest and lake, a roaring log fire and an ample supply of wood. The location is perfect too.
RAC Karri Valley Resort: Adjoined to a restaurant and surrounded by nature, wake up to the morning mist rolling over the lake Beedelup at RAC Resort. The modern chalets have balconies overlooking the water, with many on-site activities to suit your holiday needs.
Wandagar Eco Tent: Lap up luxury without compromising on the tranquillity of the forest and its pure fresh air. Disconnect from technology and experience 360-degree views of the stars in these off-the-grid eco tents - private, intimate and surrounded by forest and coastal settings, while still close enough to winter activities
Karri Valley Hideaway
4. Tasty Truffle Season
Winter is truffle hunting season. From June to September, you can descend deep into the southern forests and orchard farms to try your luck hunting these tasty treasures.
Truffle hunting is a unique experience that started in Manjimup in 1997. The region is the largest producer of black Perigord truffles in the southern hemisphere! So brave the cold weather, discover the interesting history and treat yourself to a truffle-laden feast - one of the most indulgent events of winter. Book tickets or venture out on your own.
5. Exclusive Winter Wines in the Pemberton Wine Region
The cool climate of Pemberton, high rainfall and densely forested region make for a delectable selection of some of the best winter wines in the world.
Wrap your taste buds around these:
Truffle Liqueur: Try Australia’s first truffle liqueur, a combination of the Southern Forest black truffles and perfectly balanced certified organic liqueur.
Plum Port: Winter is the season of fortified wines with French oak flavours and a smooth finish.
Pinot Noir: Light with rich flavours, Pinot is one of the best winter wines to pair with the flavours of Pemberton, including cheese, seafood and chocolate.
Mulled Wine: A winter favourite, mulled wine has a long history with cosy, comfortable experiences.
Mountford Winery
6. Fridgetown Fest 2024
Stretch your Pemberton experience further by road-tripping to Bridgetown - a 45-minute drive from the Pemberton wine centre. The town is self-dubbed as the winter capital of Western Australia, with their seasonal Fridgetown Fest attracting locals and travellers across the country.
The winter festival runs from the 1st of June to August 31st, arguably the best time to be out bush. With a showcase of local businesses, crafts, comfort food, fun activities, and a town that turns into a winter wonderland, it’s an adventure for all ages and tastes. Book now!
7. Whale Season
WA’s whale watching season is one of the longest in the world. From May to November, thousands of migrating whales travel along the southwest coast. These graceful giants can be seen from Point D’Entrecasteaux near Northcliffe less than an hour's drive from the Pemberton wine region.
Look out for Humpback and Southern Right whales from several spectacular points along the cliff.
Turn it into a day trip with picturesque drives and walking trails.
Pemberton and WA’s southwest has no shortage of winter experiences. Start planning your winter escape and add our cosy cellar door to your list. Visit us.
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