Travel & Touring | WA Destinations
By: Tatum Stafford
Dotted with fruit orchards, hobby farms and quaint country towns, the Chittering Valley is one of the Wheatbelt’s most popular destinations.
Throw in a few beautiful picnic spots, local wineries and a famous bakery and you’ve got a must-visit region for foodies. Start the car, we’re heading to the Chittering Valley.
At a glance
| Distance from Perth | 65 kilometres, just under an hour’s drive. |
|---|---|
| Why go? | To sample produce straight from the farm gate, stroll along scenic walk trails, explore local cellar doors and spend the night at a quaint local farm. |
| When to go |
Springtime to view the region’s wildflowers, or autumn to make the most of harvest season at local farms and orchards. |
| How long to stay | One to two days. |
| Need to know | Most of the region’s retail shops and facilities are in the towns of Muchea and Bindoon. Phone reception can be patchy in more remote areas within the region. |
| Fast facts | Town population: 921 within the Chittering region. Indigenous people: The general area was used by the Whadjuk tribe for campsites. ‘Chittering’ is a local word for ‘place of the willy wag tail’. |
| Insider tip | If visiting in October, don’t miss A Taste of Chittering; a food and wine festival that showcases produce from the region’s orchards, vineyards and farms. As well as sampling food, popular activities include a beer brewing competition, e-bike tours and an animal farm for the kids. |
| Related road trips |
Top things to see and do
Grab a treat at the famous Bindoon Bakehaus
This award-winning cafe and bakery is a must-visit for foodies. Favourites on its extensive menu include artisan breads, pies, pastries and plenty of sweet tarts, cakes and desserts. Most products are specially crafted to showcase ingredients from surrounding farms, with almost all ingredients at the bakery local or grown here in Western Australia. On a summer’s day, opt for alfresco dining and take in the beautiful countryside.
Explore local wineries
Thanks to its rich, loamy soils, the valley is a prime spot for winemaking. Local cellar doors include Stringybark Winery (which also has a popular restaurant attached), Nesci Estate and Kyotmunga Estate. For lovers of live music, Nesci Estate plays host to a range of open-mic events throughout the year set against the backdrop of its beautiful vineyards.
Spend the night at a local farm
As it’s a short commute from Perth, the Chittering Valley has earned a reputation amongst families as a fantastic destination for farm stays. Luckily, there are plenty to choose from. If you’re interested in fruit picking, the Orchard Glory Farm Resort is great when oranges and grapefruits are in season. Or, for a dog-friendly option with plenty of farm animals, opt for the two-storey Burroloo Well Farmstay sitting high on the picturesque Darling Ranges.
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Walk around Spoonbill Lake
Take a stroll on the 1.6-kilometre trail around Spoonbill Lake to see some of the valley’s most prolific wildlife up close. The lake’s track takes you past a variety of flora and fauna, set against the tranquil lake backdrop. Pack a basket of food and refreshments to enjoy after your walk at the lake’s pleasant picnic area.
Complete the Chittering Farm Flavour Trail
If you’re eager to sample some of the region’s fresh produce direct from the farm gate, hop on the self-driven, 120-kilometre Chittering Farm Flavour Trail. Start the trail on Chittering Road; sampling stonefruit, honey, wine, cheeses, asparagus and goats cheese at stalls and shops along the way. Popular vendors include Edmund Rice College Olives, Green Valley Fruits, Oversby’s Citrus and the Nesci Estate Wine Farm.
Getting around
There are plenty of local walk trails and mountain bike tracks to explore, so bring your hiking shoes and bike with you, as bike hire in and around the region is limited. Each town has plenty of parking spaces if you’re driving.
What to pack
If visiting in winter, bring plenty of layers as the nights can get quite cool. Otherwise, insect repellent, a hat and good walking shoes are a must year-round.
Travelling safely
The road from Perth to the valley is well-maintained and easy to navigate. Take care when travelling on narrow roads within the region, and keep an eye out for pedestrians. Read our long distance driving tips before setting off.
Need to fuel up before travelling to the valley?
RAC members save 4 cents per litre at participating Puma Energy and Better Choice stations.
Last updated: January 2021
