Marti Gardner
Perth is a laid back city with a myriad of highlights including cultural activities, scenic oceans, bush lands, restaurants and much more. Here are some key items that ought to be on your bucket list:
With its imposing 5m walls this prison showcases men's cells, solitary confinement and kitchen areas. The Great Escapes Tour immerses you in famous inmates and the women's section while the Torchlight Tour focuses on the gruesome features of the prison's history and includes an underground boat ride. Between 1855 and 1991, 350,000 prisoners were incarcerated here. Of the 44 executions, the last was of serial killer Eric Edgar Cooke in 1964.
Considered the best display of maritime archaeology in the southern hemisphere, Shipwreck Galleries features a range of items from the sea. The key attraction is the 'Batavia'. This Dutch merchant ship ran aground in 1629. The stone gate found here was to be installed at the Batavia Castle. Another interesting piece is the pewter plate left by Willem de Vlamingh in 1697.
The gallery was founded in 1895 and the state's leading collection of arts and crafts. Post WWII works by Australians such as Arthur Boyd, Grace Crossington Smith, Albert Tucker and Sidney Nolan and the Indigenous galleries that showcase canvas works and bark paintings are very popular among visitors.
This fascinating 30-minute helicopter ride showcases Fremantle city and Perth's gorgeous beaches. From Fremantle you will fly along the coast of Observation City. You will also see surf beaches in the north and City Beach and Cottesloe in the south. A key highlight is the Swan River's sheltered basin around which Perth was built. If you are looking to stay at a boutique hotel, Perth offers a range of options such as COMO The Treasury, Perth, which can organise amazing tours of Perth, such as this helicopter tour.
Spanning over 400-hectares, this expanse of lush greenery is the city's pride and joy. At the centre is the 17 hectare Botanic Garden showcasing over 2,000 plant species. Another highlight is the Lotterywest Federation Walkway. This 620m path also includes 222m glass and steel bridge that passes through a canopy of eucalypts. Also, take on the challenge of Jacob's Ladder, where you run, walk and even crawl (when tired) up and down over 240 steps.
Possibly the safest beach in the region to go for a swim with your family, Cottesloe is dotted with a range of cafes, pubs and restaurants ideal for kicking back and spending the day in absolute relaxation. The sunsets seen from here are nothing short of amazing.
Shop till you drop as you stroll looking at the facades of King Street, that feature a European feel thanks to 20th century architecture. The start of the "West End" lies over Murray Street and Hay Street and is home to over a dozen high-end stores including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Burberry, Hugo Boss, Prada and many more. There are plenty of cafes too.
