Winding tree-lined roads, so many hidden gems, and plenty of fresh air – these Perth Hills drives are perfect for when you feel like hitting the road and exploring your own backyard.
Looking for a Sunday drive that’ll get you out of the suburbs and into nature? The Perth Hills are packed with picturesque routes that take you past towering trees, through peaceful valleys, along wildflower trails, and to charming cafes, heritage hotels and boutique wineries to refuel with lunch.
Whether you’re after a leisurely cruise with stunning views or a day trip filled with stops, there’s a drive for everyone – and they’re all less than an hour from Perth’s CBD.
You don’t need to venture far to feel a world away. From the famous Zig Zag to the quieter back roads of Gidgegannup and Serpentine. Pack a picnic, fill up the tank, and start your engine!
Here are our top 6 Sunday drives to enjoy in the Perth Hills, any day of the week:
1. Flora Roads in Gidgegannup
This quiet countryside drive is one of Gidgegannup’s best-kept secrets, especially during wildflower season (late winter and spring). As you cruise along certified “Flora Roads”; O’Brien Road, Berry Road, Reserve Road and Reen Road, you’ll spot sprawling farmland, pristine bushland and (if you time it right) bursts of colour from native wildflowers like Blue Leschenaultia and Kangaroo Paws. Pack a thermos and stop for morning tea at FR Berry Reserve (on Reen Road) or why not pay the Gidgegannup Bakery & Cafe a visit. The pace is slow, the scenery is lush, and it’s a true breath of fresh air. See more here.
2. Mundaring to Kalamunda, via Mundaring Weir
This drive’s a classic – and for good reason. Start in the charming town of Mundaring, if you’re there on a Saturday, be sure to check out the Mundaring Garden & Farmers Market. Next, head down the winding Mundaring Weir Road for a drive past towering trees, snaking your way through Beelu National Park, before a stop to cross the historic Mundaring Weir.
There are plenty of places to stop – explore the Weir itself, walk a stretch of the Bibbulmun Track, or take a break at the iconic Mundaring Weir Hotel. Hop back in the car and end your drive in the heart of Kalamunda where coffee and cake await at one of the many cosy cafes. See more here.
3. Zig Zag Scenic Drive, Gooseberry Hill
Short but spectacular, Gooseberry Hill National Park’s Zig Zag Scenic Drive delivers one of the very best views over Perth. Originally a railway track, the road now winds down the escarpment in tight hairpin turns, with jaw-dropping lookouts along the way.
The best time to visit? Sunset. Watch the sky turn orange over the city skyline, and the twinkling lights of Perth starting to glow. The quirk road is one-way (downhill), and open to vehicles from 11am to 8.30pm only, so plan accordingly. See more here.
4. Bickley Valley Drive
Vineyards, orchards, cider sheds and roadside farm stalls – Bickley Valley is one of the Perth Hills’ prettiest and tastiest drives. Start in Kalamunda and take the scenic route through the valley along Aldersyde, Union and Glenisla Roads.
Depending on the season, you’ll find apple blossom, autumn colours, or plump fruit for sale direct from growers. Wineries like Plume, MyattsField, and Lawnbrook Estate are perfect for a tasting. Feeling active? Add in a stop at Lesmurdie Falls. See more here.
5. Around Roleystone and Bedfordale
If you love a mix of bushland, orchards, and botanical gardens, this drive delivers. Take Croyden Road and wind your way past bush blocks, horse paddocks and places worth stopping at, like Araluen Botanic Park, Canning Dam, and Wungong Dam.
This route is especially lovely in spring when the Araluen gardens come alive with colourful tulips. For lunch, pop into The Last Drop Elizabethan, or Roleystone café Blue Sky Bread or Raeburn Orchards’ Coffee at The Shed, or why not enjoy a hearty end to your day with a delicious meal at Seven Sins. The route also takes you close to popular walking trails at Bungendore Park and Armadale Settlers Common, so bring your hiking shoes if you’re keen to stretch your legs. See more here.
6. Jarrahdale to Serpentine Dam and Serpentine Falls Loop
Down in the southern end of the Perth Hills, this drive is a mix of farmland and forest. Start with a wander around the historic timber town of Jarrahdale and drive south towards Serpentine Dam. Stop here to enjoy a coffee at Bistro by the Dam, before driving over the dam wall and along roads framed by tall gums, grazing cows and the occasional emu sighting. Along the way, be sure to stop at Serpentine Falls for a picnic or a nature walk in the National Park. Then continue back to Jarrahdale for lunch at Millbrook Winery or a stroll through the historic trails.
Tips for a Perth Hills Drive
Plan your stops – Local cafes, pubs, wineries, cideries and bakeries are dotted throughout these routes. Some small family run venues are only open weekends, so be sure to check opening times.
Keep your eyes peeled – Wildlife sightings are common, especially of kangaroos, quendas and birds.
Make a weekend of it – These drives are all about exploring, detouring and discovering the best of the Perth Hills. Why not book an overnight stay?
Whether you’re hunting wildflowers or Sunday lunch, chasing waterfalls or just looking for a change of scenery, these Perth Hills drives each offer something special. So, fuel up, start your road trip playlist, and enjoy the ride!
The Perth Hills – closer that you think!