Explore a new side of the Capes with these hidden gems

If you’re heading to the South West this summer, we’ve got you covered with all the best new tourist spots so you can discover them before everyone else does. Whether you’ve got an eye for an adventure, looking to wine and dine or an activity for the whole family there’s something for everyone. Willie Pearl Lugger Cruises A Kimberley favourite has headed down south to bring a new adventure to the locals. Find some friends and aboard this beautiful vessel with two all-new sails to take in the beauty of the Capes. Whether your an experienced sailor or you’re taking the helm for the first time there is something for everyone with both a short one-way and longer loop sail on offer. Sit back, relax and take in the gorgeous WA marinescape before it’s too late, the Willie Pearl Lugger will set sail in Busselton for the final time on February 7. Kas Helicopters Experience Busselton like you’ve never seen it before. The only Helitours in the Geographe Bay region, take to new heights to witness the beautiful coastline from an all-new perspective. Another popular Pilbara attraction, Kas Helicopters is bringing its magic down south with a variety of short tours and full-day flight and dine experiences available. With the added option to create your own custom tours there really are no limits to what you can do, see and explore. Run by friendly, insightful pilots you are sure to get the most out of this truly unique experience. South West Cruises Immerse yourself in the South West culture with the latest branch of these renowned food cruises. Situated in Dunsborough, the new Taste of the Bays food cruise featured a seven-course degustation dinner experience over half-day sunset cruise. Step on to a 60ft pleasure boat and cruise the coastline of Geographe Bay will you enjoy the local tastes of the region. The South West menu will boast Albany rock oysters, South West blue manna crab, Manjimup marron, Southern Forest black truffle, Cowaramup olives and more, with each course paired with a Margaret River wine to match. Three Lily’s Distillery Experience a sweeter side of the South West with this quaint and colorful gin and sweet treats distillery. Only 12 months old, this humble family business combines alcohol and candy to create their signature sweet gin and liqueur. With a candy bar to occupy the young ones, this is a must-stop covers all the bases. Fittingly named after the three generations over Lily’s in owner Allan Waters’ family and run by a small but delightful team it is clear they put nothing but love to their craft. Whicher Ridge Winery For the real wine connoisseurs, this single vineyard winery offers a more hands-on wine tasting experience with its very own sensory garden, just 20 minutes from Busselton. The only one of its kind in Australia, the garden is designed to tantalise your senses with themed sections for seven different wine varieties. Each section features a ‘descriptor bed’ planted containing fruit trees, flowers and herbs which describe the aromas and flavours in the respective wine. The adjacent ‘affinity bed’ also has fruit trees, seasonal vegetables and herbs which pair with the particular wine. The garden is open to explore independently, or alternatively book a ‘pick and sip’ tour to get a deeper dive into the garden. Better yet the Whicher Ridge Winery is a dog-friendly venue, so your fur baby is also welcome to accompany you on the adventure. Hippo Lakes Just minutes from Whicher Ridge, stop in at Hippo Lakes to complete the perfect day trip. Get off the beaten track and head inland to this beautiful estate to enjoy some delicious bites, and serene views. Aimed to transport visitors to the heart of South Africa, as inspired by the owners’ ethnicity, the facility really is the perfect way to cure your travel bug without needing to travel far at all. With cafe facilities and an all-new summer menu, the estate is already a local favourite despite having only opened in August 2021. Boasting a gracious lawn and lavish garden there is plenty of room for kids to run around, and better yet, the estate is another dog-friendly venue, so there really is something for all members of the family to love.