Located approximately five hours from Perth and 45 minutes from Albany, this destination is a mecca for nature-infused R&R and/or full-on adventure. Planning a Denmark holiday? Here are our top picks of things to do in Denmark and Walpole in 2024.
SEE AND DO
There’s some sort of magic in the air this far south of Perth – a clean, crisp freshness that invigorates, inspires, relaxes, slows and tantalises. Perhaps you’ll notice it, too, when you explore these outdoor experiences.
Swim with a herd of granite elephants
Aptly named for the elephant-shaped rocks that appear like a herd of elephants bathing in its bay, Elephant Rocks is a breath-taking coastal must-visit. Just down the way you’ll also find Greens Pool – a gorgeous natural swimming pool that, yup, you guessed it, has a turquoise green tinge.
Elephant Rocks
Walk with giants
Stroll through a canopy of towering tingle trees at the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk – an accessible walking trail and suspension bridge that’ll take you 40 metres above the forest floor. Prefer the ground? See if you can spot the gnarled and knotted faces of 400-year-old tingle trees when you walk along the 500-metre-long Ancient Empire trail.
Valley of the Giants. Image credit: Australia’s South West
Take the scenic route
One of our favourite things to do in Denmark and Walpole is to take the scenic route; meandering down winding roads that pass beautiful countryside, between towering trees and along wide spanning rural vistas that stretch for miles and miles. For views that never grow old, try the Scotsdale Tourist and Mount Shadforth Scenic Drives.
SURF, PADDLE AND CRUISE
Denmark and Walpole are gloriously positioned around ocean, rivers and inlets, making them great for all things waterplay.
Learn how to surf at Ocean Beach
When it comes to Denmark beaches, Ocean Beach is hard to beat. Just a few kilometres from the Denmark township, this pristine stretch of coastline offers gentle waves for novice surfers. Ocean Beach is also patrolled by the Denmark Surf Life Saving Club during the summer months – added peace-of-mind when you’re learning how to wave ride.
SUP and kayak down Denmark River
Kayaking on the Denmark River. Image credit: Australia’s South West
Denmark River presents a calmer, fresh water adventure option for water explorers. Grab a SUP, kayak or canoe and launch into the water at Berridge Park or the Denmark Rivermouth and take your time exploring this idyllic waterway hugged by native trees.
Take a cruise down Walpole Inlet
If you’re in Walpole, a cruise with Gary and WOW Wilderness EcoCruises is an absolute must. This 2 and ½ hour cruise down the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets is a fantastic choice if you want to learn more about the local environment from a knowledgeable and friendly guide while staying dry, fed, and entertained.
Walpole Inlet. Image credit: Frances Andrjich
EAT PLENTY & DRINK MERRILY
Long table lunches overlooking the vines, lazy afternoon picnics by tranquil lakes and sipping on fine, cool climate wines by the fire with friends (or by yourself). Denmark’s food experiences are all at once lavish, delicious, indulgent, relaxed and chilled out.
Wine and dine
Offering up delicious tree-lined views and equally delicious food, Denmark institution Pepper & Salt is a must for anyone looking to impress. Do head downstairs to the Forest Hill Winery cellar door for a wine tasting before your meal. Don’t miss a tasting of the Forest Hill Pinot.
The Lake House, Denmark
Have brunch or a picnic lunch
Looking for something low-key? You’ll find us at Mrs Jones Café devouring a hearty brunch feast, or by the lake at The Lake House Denmark for a generous picnic platter, glass of wine and, probably, some scones and jam.
Enjoy a tasty bevvie
Beer fan? Make a long pitstop at Boston Brewing Co for locally brewed brews and for mouth-watering food that’s a little classier than your average pub fare. For the gin- and seltzer-inclined, head on over to The Dam for hemp-infused beverages and cocktails.
The Dam. Image credit: Australia’s South West.
HIDE AND SEEK
Keeping the kids busy on this holiday won’t be as hard as you first might think. Here’s how to preoccupy their time, so you don’t lose your mind:
Roll (literally) down the countryside
Slip, slide and squeal inside a 3m bubble within a bubble, as it rolls down one of three different nature tracks at Denmark Thrills Adventure Park. The park, nestled between karri forest and overlooking Denmark hinterland, is home to the world’s longest globeriding track – The Mountain Run – which is 570 metres long!
Search for fairies
Did you know that there’s a community of fairies who live along the Denmark River? You might not be able to spot one, but you should be able to find the doors to their homes. Need a little hint? Start on the Albany side of the Denmark bridge. From there, tiny explorers should be able to discover a new door every few minutes, with the final door located at the beginning of the river mouth.
Appease sweet teeth
Is it a holiday, really, without ice-cream? Our favourite is the honey-sweetened version on offer at Bartholomews Meadery. You’ll also find all things honey here, including tasty drops of mead. For chocoholics, don’t miss Dark Side Chocolates for a hand-crafted morsel of chocolatey goodness.
SLEEP AND REPEAT
The best part about a Denmark and Walpole holiday? Embracing a slower pace in a beautiful place. Browse our Denmark & Walpole holiday homes for your next South West getaway.
