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The South West Region of Western Australia is an internationally recognised biodiversity hotspot and home to a wide variety of wildflowers that can be in bloom all year round. The best time of year to visit this amazing part of WA is during the Noongar seasons of Djilba (Aug-Sep) and Kambarang (Oct-Nov), when the majority of the wildflowers are out, along with the diverse range of orchids that are mostly only found here.

The best way to see the kaleidoscope of colours is to put on your walking shoes and visit one of the trails listed below.

Please be respectful of the environment you're walking through, do not pick any wildflowers and stick to the marked path at all times.

Ambergate Reserve | Busselton

Length - 4.1km (Loop)
Time - 1 Hour

A small pocket of remnant bushland located near Busselton, Ambergate Reserve provides a glimpse of what used to be found along the flat plains between the hills south of here and Geographe Bay to the north. Separated into four quadrants, a walking trail takes you through unique vegetation types, each with its own variety of wildflowers, orchids and fungi. Take the time to slow down, scanning the edge of the trail for Spider Orchids, rare Grevillea and a great number of species found throughout the South West.

https://www.thelifeofpy.com/ambergate-reserve

Meelup Trail | Dunsborough

Length - 8.0km (One Way)
Time - 2-3 Hours

Located on the eastern edge of Cape Naturaliste and running between Bunker Bay and Dunsborough, this stunning walk trail provides a good mix of wildflowers, scenic views and even the chance to spot whales resting in the waters of Geographe Bay. The well-marked trail takes you through coastal forest, granite formations and along pristine beaches as you travel south towards the popular holiday town of Dunsborough. Look out for many varieties of Spider Orchids in September and October, along with Banksias, Hakeas and plenty more.

https://www.thelifeofpy.com/meelup-trail

Beedelup Falls Walk Trail | Pemberton

Length - 4.5km (Loop)
Time - 1-2 Hours

Taking in the popular tourist attraction of Beedelup Falls near Pemberton, along with a walk around Lake Beedelup, there is much more to discover here if you look a bit closer. Exploring the majestic Karri Forest surrounding the man-made lake, there are a variety of wildflower and orchids here including many types of Hoveas, a plentiful supply of Waterbush and even a few dainty orchids. A must do walk if you're staying at the Karri Valley Resort or passing through the area on your travels.

https://www.thelifeofpy.com/beedelup-falls-walk-trail

Kondil Wildflower Park | Nannup

Length - 3.1km (Loop)
Time - 1 Hour

A short drive from the cosy town of Nannup in the heart of the South West, the Kondil Wildflower Park provides an opportunity to meander through the forest, spotting all sorts of shapes and colours in the undergrowth. With the gentle gradient suitable for all ages, this is the perfect place to takes the kids, or stroll through the She-Oaks and Jarrah on your own.

https://www.thelifeofpy.com/kondil-wildflower-park

Marri Trail | Ferguson Valley

Length - 9.5km (Loop)
Time - 2-3 Hours

The longest trail in Crooked Brook Forest, located in the picturesque Ferguson Valley, the Marri Trail takes you through a variety of landscapes ranging from stunning forest to sandy plains to rolling green farmland, with each home to different array of wildflowers. With dozens of different species calling this pocket of forest home, if you don't want to walk the 9.5km loop, the shorter 3km Wildflower Walk will provide a similar experience.

https://www.thelifeofpy.com/marri-trail

Want to experience more great walks in the South West? Check out the new guidebook Best Walks of South West WA, now available at The Chart & Map Shop!

Article & all photos by Mark Pybus. Check out his fantastic blog, The Life of Py, for loads more hiking goodness.