Surrounded by five National Parks and home to some of Australia's tallest trees, Warren Valley Farm and the surrounding the Southern Forest is truly breath taking.
On the edge of a world recognised biodiversity hotspot, the landscape gives the Southern Forest region and the nearby small towns of Pemberton, Manjimup, Quinninup, Northcliffe, Walpole and Windy Harbour their character...we are shaped by it and bound by it.
Below are some of the amazing things to do in and around our region.
There is so much to see and do, you will want to extend your stay with us.
The Gloucester Tree is a giant Karri tree located about 5 minutes' drive from Pemberton.
At 58 metres high, it is the world's second tallest lookout tree. It was once one of a network of eight fire lookout trees across the South West, but is now a place for those with a sense of adventure to literally get a bird's eye view of the surrounding forest. The viewing platform is 53m above the ground.
There are a number of walking tracks round the Gloucester tree to be enjoyed.
More about The Gloucester Tree.
A short drive from Pemberton, Big Brook Dam is a glorious place for a swim, canoe or a relaxing walk. Surrounded by Karri forest, the freshwater dam was once used as the water supply for nearby Pemberton, but now it provides an idyllic location to soak in the crystal clear water or sunbathe on the sandy beach.
There is a flat, 4km sealed walking nature trail around the dam which has several special viewing spots and in Spring, there are many wildflowers that pop up amongst the bush.
More about Big Brook Dam.
For those with a 4WD, the Mysterious Yeagerup Dunes is a must see. Rising suddenly out of the forest, and slowly creeping inland - this massive expanse of sand dunes is on the move.
The Yeagerup is the largest landlocked dune system in the Southern Hemisphere. After driving through the bush and across the dunes, you will come out on the beach near the mouth of the Warren River, which of course passes right past Warren Valley Farm and Ryan's Rest.
If you don't have a 4WD, there are organised tours available.
With its Mediterranean climate and cool, crisp nights, the region produces some of the best Western Australian wines on the market. Our Pinot Noir and sparkling varieties are gathering a big reputation due to their quality.
The majority of wine producers in the Pemberton and Manjimup wine region sell small-batch, artisanal wines at their cellar door or through local distribution.
There are several wineries throughout the region where you can try local wines, perhaps enjoy some lunch and then grab a bottle to bring back to Ryan's Rest to enjoy while watching the sunset!
More about our local wineries.
Between June and late August, as the nights are cooler, something very special grows beneath the ground at farms in the region. Truffles! These highly aromatic, subterranean fruit of specialised fungi grow on the roots of specific host trees and are in great demand from chefs all over the world. The Manjimup area is the largest producer of black truffle in the Southern Hemisphere.
One of the most unique experiences in the Southern Forests is to join a truffle hunt with specially trained dogs. Wander the trees while the trained dog smells out and scratches the earth, while carefully avoiding the truffle. What clever pooches they are!
For more information about Truffle Hunting.
Water is a big part of the Southern Forests region. It is vitally important for our agriculture as it cleans our forests and creates stunning waterways, rivers and waterfalls. There are number of waterfalls during winter and spring are brimming with crystal clear water. At the Cascades, just a short drive from your accommodation, there is a viewing platform plus multiple other vantage points and walk trails, including the Bibbulmum Track.
The Beedelup Falls flow under a walk platform and tumble over a height of around 20m to the river below. There is a stunning walk trail that even crosses a small (but very sturdy) suspension bridge. In spring, wildflowers bring pops of stunning colour to the landscape.
More about The Cascades. More about Beedelup Falls.
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