Kalgoorlie Goldrush - Australia's Golden Outback
Duration 6 Days
There are an abundance of true Aussie pubs in this region, all of which leave you with great memories and experiences of Australia 's Golden Outback.
The spirit of the gold rush pioneers lives on in Kalgoorlie , the gateway to a Western Australian outback adventure.
This itinerary is best enjoyed by four-wheel drive. Get prepared to enjoy a beer with newfound friends at one of Kalgoorlie 's historic pubs and tell a tale or two.
Day 1: Perth - Kalgoorlie
Choose between train and self-drive from Perth to Kalgoorlie . If you opt for the train, hire a four-wheel drive once you arrive in the historic gold rush town.
Direct flights are also available from Perth and take one and a half hours.
The drive from Perth is around six and a half hours non-stop. But take your time and enjoy the transition from urban landscape through rolling hills into the golden wheatbelt.
The Golden Pipeline heritage trail from Mundaring to Kalgoorlie largely follows the route of the original water pipeline constructed at the turn of the century. There are information panels and walk trails along the route, which take you through nature reserves and gold mining towns.
Take a break at one of the quaint country towns en route. Stop in at a country pub along the way for a great value meal or even spend the night to make the most of the hospitality.
Along the way make sure you look out for the wildflowers in spring.
On arrival in Kalgoorlie , stroll around this living museum among majestic architecture, and linger over a meal and refreshing ale at one of Kalgoorlie 's iconic pubs the Star & Garter .
Overnight: Kalgoorlie
Day 2: Kalgoorlie
Spend your first morning soaking up the history of mining and European settlement in this fascinating town.
The vast Super Pit mine, spread over eight square kilometres, is a sight to behold. It's Australia 's largest operational open cut mine.
There's also the opportunity to explore an old mine shaft and discover the hardships of life in the early days at the Mining Hall of Fame. Try your hand at gold panning, too.
Enjoy a meal at the newly renovated Kalgoorlie Hotel before you climb to the top of Mt Charlotte - the end of the Golden Pipeline and a superb spot for views over Kalgoorlie .
Overnight: Kalgoorlie
Day 3: Kalgoorlie - Menzies/Leonora
Hop in the car to set off on the Golden Quest Discovery Trail, which takes you on a self-guided tour of outback history.
The whole trail takes in Coolgardie, Leonora and Laverton - a full five-day itinerary in itself. For a quicker taste of outback heritage, choose a section of the route, such as Kalgoorlie to Menzies or Leonora, via Coolgardie.
The trail is designed to transport you on a journey into the past - through echoing ghost towns, past fascinating architecture and natural backdrops, exploring the Aboriginal history that runs alongside stories of pioneering spirits.
Heading out into the true Australian outback, you'll need to keep an eye out for kangaroos and other native wildlife .
Take the opportunity to discover the real Australia at the White House Hotel , you'll be guaranteed great value meal s and accommodation .
Visiting the Inside Australia sculptures at Lake Ballard near Menzies is a must - best viewed by moonlight for an impressive and eerie effect. Wander around Gwalia Historic Precinct near Leonora and marvel at the splendour of the restored Hoover House, named after the first Mine Manager Herbert Hoover, later to become President of the United States .
Overnight: Menzies, Leonora
Day 4: Menzies/Leonora - Kalgoorlie
Retrace your steps back from Menzies to Kalgoorlie , or follow a loop from Leonora round the west side of Lake Ballard - a good half-day journey.
Be sure to appreciate the rugged goldfields scenery - scattered with wildflowers in spring. All year round the salt lakes, granite formations and Aboriginal rock art add to the drama.
Back in Kalgoorlie , it's time to explore the shops for local crafts, Aboriginal art and exquisite jewellery.
Relax in the evening with a pub meal and comfortable accommodation at Hannans Hotel .
Overnight: Kalgoorlie
Day 5: Kalgoorlie
Time for an Aboriginal cultural experience. Take a tour into the bush with one of Kalgoorlie 's experienced indigenous guides for a day or overnight.
Discover authentic Aboriginal culture, and meet modern Aboriginal people in outback communities. Learn to forage for bushtucker and cook traditional meals over a campfire. Listen to stories of the dreamtime (Aboriginal creation stories) as the sun sets and the stars twinkle into life. Then head back to Recreation Hotel for a relaxing evening.
Overnight: Kalgoorlie
Day 6: Kalgoorlie - Perth
Time to head back to the city, quietened by the vast landscape, filled with stories of pioneers and dreamtime beliefs and relaxed by true country pub hospitality.
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