The tour starts in Esperance and finishes in Perth. There are daily flights to Esperance from Perth.
Two guides will accompany you on the tour and one, or both, will walk with you each day. There are some steep sections, and a few beach stretches (although they’re mostly firm) so we recommend training. The itinerary may alter depending on local conditions and weather
Day One - Arrival Day in Esperance + Coastal Drive
The tour starts in Esperance with an arrival dinner.
There are daily flights from Perth and we will pick you up from the airport and get you settled in.
We recommend the 2:15pm departure from Perth that arrives in Esperance at 3:50pm as it means you will have time to explore the area and settle in. We may have time to do the beautiful coastal drive and check out some sights of this delightful small country town.
If you’re arriving earlier in the day (8:15am-9:50am flight) or are in Esperance a few days early to explore the area; taking a scenic flight over to see the bubblegum pink Lake Hillier is a treat! Click here to book your spot.
Accommodation: Island View apartments, Esperance
Day Two: Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail
4.5hrs approx of walking
45 minutes from Esperance is Cape Le Grand National Park. Here you’ll find some of the best beaches on the planet, and the Le Grand Coastal Trail is the best place from which to appreciate them.
We will complete part of the coastal trail today, and part when we come back tomorrow. The coastal trail has some short but challenging hills – both up and down – but the views are absolutely worth the effort.
Accommodation: Island View apartments, Esperance
Day Three: Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail + Frenchman's Peak
Approx 4.5 hrs of walking
We have some unfinished business at Cape Le Grand. Today we’ll complete another spectacular section of the coastal trail and conquer the formidable Frenchman’s Peak.
Frenchman’s Peak is very steep; but, taken one step at a time, it’s certainly achievable. And what a way to finish our Cape Le Grand experience! If the views and the sense of accomplishment don’t put a smile on your face, nothing will.
Accommodation: Island View apartments, Esperance
Day Four: Esperance to Hopetoun + East Mt Barren walk
Approx 3 hours of walking
It’s about 200 km to drive to Hopetoun, the eastern gateway to the Fitzgerald River National Park. After lunch we’ll head out to East Mount Barren. It’s a great 3 km return walk to the summit.
There’s a bit of shale to negotiate and a bit of a boulder scramble to get right to the summit, but there are plenty of magic views and some nice spots to stop and take in the serenity along the way.
We’ll stay the next three nights in the centrally located Hopetoun Chalets, spread between several 2 bedroom chalets, where we will share meals, and several motel rooms.
Accommodation: Hopetoun Chalets
Day Five: Hakea Trail
15km
We plan to walk about 15 km of the Hakea Trail today. The Hakea Trail is an absolutely tremendous coastal walk. The gradients are mostly gentle, the views are uplifting, the plants are beautifully grotesque, and the rocks – they’re incredible!
When we return to Hopetoun in the late afternoon you might enjoy a coffee in town, a stroll on the beach or a rest before dinner.
Accommodation: Hopetoun Chalets
Day Six: The Hakea Trail
11km
This morning we will take a 4wd out to the most remote area of the park and then walk back to Hamerley inlet. You will truly feel removed from the world, as we are sure to have this spectacular coast all to ourselves.
Look out for the unusual and colourful royal hakea which are common in this part of the park.
Accommodation: Hopetoun Chalets
Day Seven: Hopetoun to Perth
A few kilometres of walking
We’ll leave early from Hopetoun for the drive back to Perth.
We’ll stop at Wave Rock for morning tea for a chance to explore this strange and wonderful geological feature. After lunch we will hit the road again, looking to be back in Perth at around 5pm.
Beautiful walks in the daytime, relax with fellow walkers each evening
As much as this walk is a fantastic outdoor experience, it’s also a social experience, giving you a chance to enjoy the companionship and support of like-minded people.
Enjoy a cuppa with a slice of cake for morning tea and a fresh healthy lunch, surrounded by nature. Every day is finished off by a delicious and nutritious dinner together with the group.