Destination Albany – Plan Your WA Road Trip Itinerary with Albany Tours
What is Albany WA known for? Wildflowers, impressive granite formations, historic stories, and inspiring food! Albany is the destination you’ve been dreaming of. The first place of settlement in Western Australia. The last place seen by ANZAC soldiers on their journey to war. Green landscape crusted with granite and a gorgeous cool climate that grows delicious fresh food and award-winning wines. There are hundreds of reasons to put Albany in the Great Southern at the top of your travel list.
This guide walks you through five days of the best Albany and the Great Southern have to offer. Each day pairs a signature experience with time to relax, so you come away with real memories, not just photos. If you want coastal views, quiet wineries, or a deeper look at the ANZAC story, this Albany getaway covers it all.
Here's a 5-day Albany getaway plan for your next journey through Western Australia's Great Southern.
Day 1
Day One: Arrive in Albany and settle in. Where to stay in Albany, WA: the town centre puts you within walking distance of Stirling Terrace and the harbour foreshore, while Middleton Beach and Emu Point suit those who’d rather wake up by the water. Where to eat in Albany, WA: head to the historic Stirling Terrace precinct for a meal in one of the many eateries with views of Princess Royal Harbour. Maybe you’ll spot some street art along the way! Albany alleys are strewn with murals.
Stirling Terrace itself is one of the best-preserved heritage streetscapes in Western Australia, lined with colonial-era buildings that now house cafes, galleries, and boutique stores. It’s an easy stretch to wander after check-in, with the harbour never far from view. Give yourself a relaxed first evening; the itinerary picks up pace from Day Two.
Day 2
Day Two: Sense the edge at The Gap in Torndirrup National Park on a half-day tour with Albany Tours. Take in the 360-degree views of Western Australia’s southern coastline from the summit of Stoney Hill. Walk in bushland abundant in wildflowers: hakea, acacia, banksia, dryandra, adenanthus, and agonis. Feel the power of the wind and water from the masterfully crafted, protected walkway cantilevered over The Gap. See the pounding waves of the Southern Ocean as they thrash the granite walls and surge through the spaces. Complete your journey with a generous serving of scones with tea or coffee.
Wear sturdy, flat shoes for this one, since the granite can be slippery when damp and the boardwalk sits right at the ocean’s edge. Bring a jacket too; the wind at The Gap is part of the experience, not something to dress against. Photographers should allow extra time here, as the light changes quickly along this stretch of coast.
Day 3
Day Three: head out of town to either Denmark or Mt Barker to taste the region on a full-day tour with Albany Tours. Meander through backroads to taste outstanding wines from wineries of the Great Southern Wine appellation. This Western Australian region has a characteristically cool climate with slow ripening times, which allows for the development of rich flavours and quality grape juice. The most awarded varieties are Riesling and Shiraz. Albany Tours ensures an intimate and knowledgeable tasting experience in the region, and you step up to the tasting bench ahead of others. Our wine tours Include lunch and all tastings.
If you’d rather stay closer to town, ask about half-day options when you book. Both Denmark and Mt Barker work well as shorter trips if a full day away doesn’t suit your schedule. Either way, book ahead during peak wildflower season (August to October), when tasting slots fill quickly.
Day 4
Day Four: Learn more of the ANZAC and settlement story on a half-day ‘History and Highlights’ tour with Albany Tours. On Mt Adelaide at the National ANZAC Centre Albany, interactive displays will take you on an intimate journey of a participant of the war. Under the shade of trees planted to remember fallen soldiers, the Avenue of Honour leads to the Memorial of the Desert Mounted Corps on Mt Clarence. The dawn service is Padre White’s story. Take in the view that the departing ANZAC Troops had before they sailed onwards to war; for some of them, Albany, Western Australia, was the last vision of homeland. Includes morning tea with scones.
The National ANZAC Centre Albany was purpose-built for the centenary of the ANZAC departure, and its exhibits are worth the full ticket time. You’re issued a personal identity card at the entrance, following one soldier or nurse’s journey through the war. Many visitors find this the most moving stop on the whole itinerary.
Day 5
Day Five: Meander home with a heart and mind full of history, nature, and delicious treats from the Great Southern region. Take the scenic route back if time allows, stopping wherever the view calls for one last photo. Whatever brought you to Albany this time, it has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
Before you go, consider adding an extra night if you can. Five days covers the highlights, but Albany’s coastline and wine region reward slower exploration. Many visitors say they wish they’d booked one more day.