Explore our favourite Busselton Wildflower Walks this Spring
Australia’s south west has remarkable biodiversity, and if you visit in spring, you’ll observe an abundance of wildflowers and orchids in blossom. We’re lucky to have over 2,500 species of wildflowers decorate the region in vivid colours with their delicate flowers. Here are some of our favourite Busselton, Geographe Bay and Margaret River region wildflower trails for capturing the colourful display of blooms this spring. And please remember to stay on the paths to avoid trampling a well-camouflaged orchid, keep dogs and pets out of National Parks, and please don’t pick the flowers – take a photograph, instead.
Ambergate Reserve
Located just 9km from the centre of Busselton, you’ll find Ambergate Reserve – a 75-hectare regional park ablaze with wildflowers. This stunning reserve contains at least 326 species of native flowering plants. The 4km loop walk trail is a wildflower hotspot that provides access through all parts of the reserve where you’ll see orchids, rare Verticordia and great Christmas tree (Moodja tree) displays in December.
Coastal walk along walk path
Mandalay is lucky to be situated opposite the turquoise waters of Geographe Bay, so why not wander along the coast by foot? Follow Geographe Path all the way into Busselton Town Centre and be rewarded with spectacular coastal views along the way. The flat, easily accessible pathway is perfect for families wanting to get the kids exploring. Don’t forget to grab a thick shake from The Goose at Busselton foreshore – the ultimate sugar hit sure to give you enough energy to walk or cycle back to Mandalay.
Captain Baudin Reserve
Squeezed between the ocean and the Vasse Estuary, this is a good spot for coastal wildflowers and seeing waterbirds on the Vasse Estuary wetlands. Wildflower lovers will have the chance to spot Caladenia Procera, Rattle Beak, Enamel orchids, Blue Grass Lily and Kangaroo Paws. Don’t forget your binoculars too – more than 80 bird species also call the region home. Keen to wander further afield? Immerse yourself into the boundless natural beauty of the region and check out two of our favourites – Meelup Regional Park and Wadandi Track.
Meelup Regional Park
Covering an impressive 11.5km of coastline from Dunsborough to Bunker Bay, the park features an abundance of wildflowers, whale watching lookouts and some of the best beaches in Western Australia. Spider and donkey orchids are currently blossoming, although the spiders can be hard to spot for the novice wildflower wanderer. The park has a variety of walking trails offering glimpses of the panoramic coastal views. With accessible, family friendly or experienced trails – there’s something for all to enjoy.
Wadandi Track
Named for the traditional owners of the land, the 31km trail from Cowaramup to Witchcliffe, showcases the heritage of the former Busselton to Flinders Bay Railway. Walking a section will take you through postcard views that share a rich history of the land. You can also stop at a number of cafes and restaurants for coffee, local produce, craft beer or a glass of chardonnay. Tip: there’s plenty of resources to help identify plants and wildflowers. We love Find That Flower and Orchids of the Margaret River Region by Jane Scott. Friends swear by iNaturaliste app, and you can’t go past a guided tour with Hank Durlik from Margaret River Exposed Tours – he’s the Orchid King!
