Take a road trip to the stars and skies of Western Australia’s southern Wheatbelt. During daylight hours you’ll explore quaint Wheatbelt towns just oozing with history and amazing natural attractions. But when the day is done and the sun sinks across the western horizon, you’ll find yourself in true stargazing paradise.
Day 1: Darkan (210 kms)
Leave Perth just after lunch and take a leisurely drive south-east on Albany Hwy. Stop for a refreshing coffee and treat at the Williams Woolshed before continuing to visit Arthur River. Then turn off the highway to charming Darkan. Perfectly maintained historic buildings put any budding astrophotographer in the picture. Spend the afternoon scouting your ideal locations. It might be Six Mile Cottage or perhaps you’ll choose to photograph under the Milky Way at Hillman Siding or the historical buildings at Arthur River.
If two nights in the Shire of West Arthur area takes your fancy, call in and stay your second night at delightful Lake Towerrinning, just south of Darkan. You’ll never forget your first view of the lake and it is hard to resist the temptation to spend one more night here camping with your camera!
Overnight: Darkan or Lake Towerrinning
Six Mile Cottage near Darkan is a stunning location for astrophotographers. Heritage meets the Milky Way!
If you didn’t see Arthur River under the stars, make sure to call in on your way to Narrogin. At the next stop, grab lunch or a picnic-to-go in Wagin and visit Yillimining Rock before making it to delightful Narrogin just in time for afternoon drinks and a great choice of local dining. Refresh and head back to Yilliminning Rock to try your hand at some astrophotography.
If camping is an option, Dryandra Woodlands is an ideal place for dark skies and a captivating Barna Mia Native Animal Sanctuary experience after sunset.
Overnight: Narrogin or Dryandra
Avoca Farm is close to Narembeen and is ideal for astrophotography. There are a variety of scenes to capture.
Day 3: Return to Perth (200 kms)
After a sleep in and a delicious breakfast at one of Narrogin’s delightful cafes, take a stroll around the town’s 1,250 metre Heritage Walk Trail. It’s a delightful trip back in time before a pleasant trip home via the Dryandra Woodlands, Pumphreys Bridge and some of WA’s beautiful State Forests.
You will have only touched the surface! There are so many astro spots in this delightful area that you’re sure to be back with fellow photography buddies to share new and wonderful moments under the stars.
Maps: You’ll find handy maps and information you can download on our Eastern Wheatbelt Stargazing Map and Southern Wheatbelt Stargazing Map.
Want more dark sky adventures: Explore some other wonderful dark sky destinations along the way. Another itinerary to travel is the City Lights Star Lights.
Ready to stay longer? You’ll find more about this wonderful region on the Australia’s Golden Outback website.
Driving times and distances intended as a guide only and may vary depending on the exact route taken. Accommodation options are indicative of what is available in the area.
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