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Diversity Relish the Separated for millennia from the rest of Australia by desert, this south west corner is an ancient and worn land, conjuring up a profound spirit of place and giving origin to distinctive flora. You will be inspired by the towering forests, extraordinary wildflowers, natural bushland, exquisite caves and abundant wildlife. With nearly 80 percent of the plant species in the South West biodiversity hotspot found nowhere else in the world, the region is abundant with unique and spectacular landscapes to discover. Extreme climate shifts and poor soils have promoted a unique specialisation of the local flora species including Banksia plants and Kangaroo Paws while our majestic Jarrah, Marri and Karri forests are three eucalyptus trees specific to this corner of Australia. wILDFLOwER wOnDERLanD Botanical enthusiasts will delight in the 2,500 wildflower and 150 orchid species, many of which are indigenous to the area. Springtime is peak wildflower season and you will be enchanted by the kaleidoscope of colour and delicate designs of this wildflower sanctuary. Experience the brilliance of nature on an informative guided wildflower tour or seek out some local advice and explore at your own pace. The surrounding environment is a haven for wildlife lovers. Brilliantly coloured parrots, sapphire-like splendid wrens and a wide variety of native wildlife including kangaroo, emu, chuditch, ringtail possum and brushtail possum make the forests their home. Although shy and timid, many of these animals are regularly seen in their natural habitat within the national parks and bushland. CapE TO CapE TRaCk The Cape to Cape Track takes in 135km of the splendid Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge from Cape Naturaliste in the north to Cape Leeuwin in the south. Meandering along the coastline among the coastal heath, sandy beaches, tall forests and limestone formations, the Cape to Cape Track is widely recognised as one of the best in Australia. Fascinating geological features make this one of the best natural-based experiences in the Margaret River region with the massive Wilyabrup Cliffs and Canal Rocks, two definite highlights. The Quinninup Falls and Meekadarabee Falls have an abundance of cascading water in the winter and spring months and offer two more splendid experiences for those challenging the track. Other sections of the track provide a magnificent display of the best surfing spots in the region, towering karri forests and colourful wildflowers (particularly between September and October). The trail can be completed in around five to seven days or a variety of short-walk options can be enjoyed. The track is marked and maps and books are available to guide you through the highlights of the walk. MOUnTaIn bIkE aDVEnTURES There are many other walk trails and also a number of exciting mountain bike options, from obstacle free rides for beginners to challenging single tracks with technical features to test more experienced riders. Touring options include guided experiences atop a mountain bike, and even a sip and cycle tour through some of the wineries. bORanUp FOREST The Boranup Forest shouldn't be missed with its majestic Karri trees. Karri trees are the tallest tree in Western Australia and one of the tallest bUShwaLkInG Bushwalking is a great way to see the region, but please consider the following precautions to ensure your safety whilst in the great outdoors. Wear sturdy but comfortable shoes or boots, long sleeved shirts and pants to protect against prickly vegetation, insect bites and sun exposure. Take a light raincoat, a hat for protection and good quality sunscreen, plus a first aid kit and insect repellent. If you are taking an extended or difficult walk, notify someone of your plans and intended return. Walk in a party of two or more people for safety. If you are injured, you will need someone who can summon help. It is desirable for at least one member of your party to have some First Aid experience. Make sure you have adequate water and remember to drink it! Take at least one litre per person on most days and at least two litres on hot days. Take care not to trample sensitive areas such as moss-covered rock, sand dune plants or steep slopes. This is very general information courtesy of the Department of Environment and Conservation. More details are available at www.dec.wa.gov.au bIODIVERSITy hOTSpOT The region is Australia's equivalent of the Amazon, as part of one of only 34 biodiversity hotspots in the world. Biodiversity hotspots are the richest and most threatened reservoirs of plant and animal life on earth. 16 | RELISH THE DIVERSITY Natural Adventures