scenic drives


Balingup to Pemberton via Nannup
Scenic Drive


The drive from Balingup to Nannup to Pemberton and then return to Balingup
via Manjumip and Bridgetown is a 208 km round trip.

Begin at the corner of South Western Highway and Brockman Street, Balingup.  Following the sign pointing to Nannup (Tourist Drive 251), turn into Brockman Street and go past the Post Office and Tavern onto the road to Nannup.  Here the road becomes the Balingup-Nannup Road.  This 41 km drive is one of the most scenic drives in the south west of Western Australia.  The road is sealed but narrow, and is very winding in places.

From Nannup drive south from the town and take the Vasse Highway to Pemberton.  The drive along the Vasse Highway takes you past a number of National Parks as you drive on into Karri forests.  Many wildflowers can be seen along the side of this highway during spring.  Take time to stop of at Beedelup Falls and walk the trail there before arriving at Pemberton. 

Pemberton began as a timber town and housed workers for the sawmill which was established in 1913.  The town has numerous timber workers cottages, the old school, hospital, picture theatre and many other timber buildings which give the town a special character.  Here you will find fine wineries, woodcraft galleries, restaurants & cafes.  You will also find the steam train and tram.  The train operates a 2.75 hr return trip from May to November.  For those who enjoy heights there are a number of lookouts in giant trees, the most famous of which is the Gloucester Tree, only 3kms from the Post Office.

Leave Pemberton and drive 16 km to meet up with the South Western Highway. Turn left onto the highway towards Manjimup, 15 km to the north.  Manjimup has a population of around 5,000 and is the regional centre for the Warren and Blackwood Valley areas.  Manjimup also has a timber history.

A further 34 km brings you to Bridgetown with its craft shops, cafes, a bakery and a supermarket.  Return to Balingup by driving a further 26kms north along the South Western Highway.

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