West Australians have named Perth to Margaret River via Pemberton as their top road trip in the state which also features Collie, a new RAC survey reveals.
The survey saw almost 4000 West Australians cast a vote for their favourite road trip, with focus given to the experience of the journey, as well as the destination.
From a shortlist of 16 trips, WA voted the top 5 road trips as: Perth to Margaret River via Pemberton, Perth to Exmouth along the Coral Coast, Perth to Albany and the Porongurups, Kununurra to Broome via Gibb River Road and Perth to Esperance via Albany.
RAC Brand and Tourism executive general manager Tony Pickworth said the survey results showed RAC members and the WA community were becoming increasingly inspired to see and enjoy the state.
“There’s so much beauty in our wonderful state, ranging from popular and iconic drives to lesser-known hidden gems, and we’re delighted to see so many Western Australians exploring their own backyard,” he said.
“Western Australia is home to some of the most breathtaking road trips in the world, so we encourage everyone to put WA top of the list when planning their next getaway.”
Mr Pickworth said the winning route is great “anytime of the year."
"Wind your way through an awe-inspiring corner of WA. Be dwarfed by giant Karri Trees, surrounded by sun-drenched vineyards and captivated by coastal vistas,” he said.
With the busy festive season approaching, Mr Pickworth advised motorists to plan ahead and stay safe.
“If you’re planning a road trip this summer, driving conditions can be different outside the city limits, so we remind all travellers to make safety the number one priority – stay vigilant, prepare yourself and your vehicle before heading off, plan your route, look up and look out for other motorists on the road,” he said.
Collie Visitor Centre manager Tracey Peach said it was great to get Collie recognised in the top road trip.
“I’m pleased they’ve voted for that particular route because a lot of people will take the Albany highway, or the Forrest highway down South and because we’re not really on the way to anything we get bypassed a lot. So to be actually included has been excellent,” she said.
“I don’t think people know how much Collie has to offer as far as the different facilities, attractions, and all the recreational side of things like camping at Welington Dam, Glen Mervyn, and Stockton Lake. We cater for a wide variety of visitors.”
Ms Peach said in the RAC’s most recent magazine, Horizons, Minninup Pool was recongised alongside Honeymoon Pool in the 10 best inland swimming spots.
