Many memorable experiences await you in the countryside surrounding the Valley in the wider eastern region of Perth. The region embraces Perth’s eastern riverside suburbs and the Darling Range, also known as the Perth Hills, home of some of Western Australia’s most spectacular scenic drives. Taste Wineries The Perth Hills is a newly emerging wine-growing region that extends from Chittering in the north to Pickering Brook in the south. Indulge in wine-tasting and dining in a typically rustic Hills setting with inspiring views. Restaurants and Cafes The menu ranges from internationally awarded restaurants to casual cafes and pubs. Cosy up to a roaring log fire in winter or dine alfresco in summer while you take in the sights and sounds of an enchanted forest setting. Take in the peaceful views of Lake Leschenaultia with a delightful morning tea or feast on pub grub at Mundaring Weir. Boutique food producers Taste fine gourmet chocolate hand-made on the premises in Carmel Valley. Pack a hamper of locally-made semolina bread, roasted vegetable salads, marinated olives and artichokes or buy a ready-made hamper brimming with gourmet goodies. Picnics Feast alfresco on the grassy banks of the Swan River or one of the region’s nature reserves or seven national parks. The Perth Hills have some of the State’s prettiest parks and gardens and most picnic spots have barbecue facilities. Try Lesmurdie Falls, Stirk Park, Mundaring Sculpture Park or Gungin Gully. Discover History and heritage The fertile land along the Swan River’s banks was settled in the early days of the Swan River Colony. There are a number of historic buildings that offer an intimate glimpse into our pioneering history. On the way to the Swan Valley and Perth Hills, stop by Tranby House in Maylands - the first farmhouse on the Swan. In the Hills village of Kalamunda you can visit Stirk Cottage and the Kalamunda History Village. Or relive the turbulent history of the Goldfields water supply scheme at the CY O’Connor Museum, Mundaring Weir. Nature-based Perth’s most popular walking tracks and national parks are located in the Hills and eastern region. Star-gazing at the Perth Observatory at Bickley is another favourite pursuit for nature lovers. Horsing around The eastern region plays host to the State’s premier horse racetracks at Belmont and Ascot. The Perth Cup on New Year’s Day is the highlight of the racing calendar. Festivals and celebrations The Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC) coordinates a diverse range of community festivals and events every year. For detailed information, call the EMRC on 9479 4808 or visit www.perthtourism.emrc.org.au Stay If you plan to stay a little longer there are many accommodation options, from cottage to caravan parks. Stylish bed and breakfasts capture the charming ambience of the Perth Hills, while the Belmont motel strip gives you ready access to the diverse tapestry of the eastern region. For more information call the EMRC on 9479 4808 or the Western Australian Tourism Commission (WATC) on 9472 0000.