DENMARK & WALPOLE
This region is where the ancient forests meet the Southern Ocean’s stunning coastline. Discover towering tingle trees and the pristine turquoise waters of the Rainbow Coast.
It offers a unique blend of wilderness adventure, from high forest walks to world-class walking and biking trails. Taste local wines and gourmet produce in this relaxed corner of Australia.
Most Popular Attractions
Ancient Forests & Wilderness Parks
Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk: A breathtaking 600-meter-long elevated walkway suspended 40 meters above the magnificent tingle forest canopy.
Ancient Empire Walk: A boardwalk at ground level winding through a grove of veteran, 400-year-old Red Tingle trees with enormous, hollowed-out bases.
Walpole-Nornalup National Park: A vast park protecting a unique ecosystem of tingle and karri forests, and the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets.
Mount Frankland National Park: Features an impressive granite peak with a Summit Walk to a lookout offering panoramic views of the Walpole Wilderness Area.
Giant Tingle Tree: The world’s largest girthed living eucalypt, found near Walpole on a dedicated walk trail.
Bibbulmun Track: Sections of this world-class long-distance walking trail wind through the region’s forests and coastal areas.
Munda Biddi Trail: A dedicated mountain bike trail that passes through the area, offering long-distance cycling adventures.
Swarbrick: Home to forest art installations and a “Wilderness Wall of Perceptions” set amongst magnificent old-growth karri forest.
Harewood Forest Walk: A tranquil walking trail near Denmark, known for its beautiful Karri and Tingle forest scenery.
Coastal & Aquatic Wonders
Greens Pool: A world-famous beach in William Bay National Park, known for its calm, turquoise waters and protection by natural granite boulders.
Elephant Rocks: Massive granite boulders adjacent to Greens Pool that resemble a herd of elephants shuffling out to sea.
William Bay National Park: Protects the spectacular coastline between Denmark and Walpole, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Ocean Beach: The main surf beach close to Denmark, popular for surfing, kite surfing, and swimming in summer.
Lights Beach: A ruggedly attractive beach known for its rock formations and fishing, offering a wilder coastal experience.
Peaceful Bay: A small, picturesque coastal hamlet offering one of the safest swimming beaches between Denmark and Walpole.
Conspicuous Cliff: A coastal lookout and boardwalk offering dramatic views of the Southern Ocean and a prime spot for whale watching (June to October).
Mandalay Beach: A secluded, beautiful beach near Walpole, named after the shipwreck of the Norwegian vessel Mandalay, remnants of which can sometimes be seen.
Wilson Inlet: A large, beautiful inlet great for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and birdwatching, also known by its Noongar name, Koorabup.
Local Flavours & Culture
Ducketts Mill Wines & Denmark Farmhouse Cheese: A popular stop along the Scotsdale Tourist Trail, offering local wine and artisan cheese tastings.
Singlefile Wines: One of the region’s renowned cool-climate wineries, offering a cellar door experience with award-winning wines.
Denmark Dinosaur World: A unique local attraction featuring an extensive collection of dinosaur skeletons, including the only T-Rex in Australia.
Denmark Animal Farm & Pentland Alpaca Stud: A hands-on farm and wildlife park where visitors can interact with a wide variety of animals.
Mount Shadforth Scenic Drive: A leisurely one-hour drive offering scenic views of the farming region and access to local wineries and studios.
Activities & Experiences
Walk the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk: Experience the forest canopy from 130 feet (40m) above the ground on a spectacular steel structure, followed by the Ancient Empire Walk among giant, hollowed-out Tingle trees. (Entrance fee approx. $15 USD).
Swim and Snorkel at Greens Pool & Elephant Rocks: Visit these world-famous beaches in William Bay National Park, known for their protected turquoise waters, white sand, and incredible granite rock formations.
Hike the Bibbulmun Track or Cycle the Munda Biddi Trail: Tackle a section of these world-class long-distance trails. The Walpole Wilderness area offers some of the most stunning forest and coastal scenery on both tracks.
Take a WOW Wilderness EcoCruise: Explore the protected waterways of the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets Marine Park, learning about the fragile ecosystems and local history.
Taste Local Wine and Produce: Visit one of the boutique wineries, such as The Lake House or Singlefile Wines, and indulge in a vineyard platter featuring local cheeses, Marron (freshwater crayfish), and gourmet condiments.
Explore the Scotsdale Tourist Drive: Drive this scenic route near Denmark, stopping at Harewood Forest for a short walk and visiting cellar doors, the Denmark Chocolate Company, and Bartholomew’s Meadery.
Find a Quokka in the Wild: While famous on Rottnest Island, a smaller, wild population of these ‘happiest animals’ can be found near the Valley of the Giants and in the Walpole Wilderness, often closer to sunset.
Kayak or Paddleboard on the Wilson Inlet: Rent a boat or take a guided tour to explore the calm waters of the inlet, a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing near Denmark.
Hike to the Mount Frankland Summit: Take the challenging but rewarding 2,000-foot (600m) Summit Walk for 360-degree views over the vast Walpole Wilderness Area (permit generally not required).
Visit the Hilltop GIANT Tingle Trees: Track down the world’s largest girth flowering tree, the iconic Giant Tingle, deep within the prehistoric red tingle forest near Walpole.
Surf or Learn to Surf at Ocean Beach: Denmark’s main surf beach is patrolled in the summer and offers lessons for beginners and consistent waves for experienced surfers.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for Freedom: To fully experience the region’s beaches, forests, wineries, and national parks, a rental car is the most practical option. The towns of Denmark and Walpole are relatively small and the main attractions are spread out along the South Coast Highway and various scenic drives.
Driving Distances: The journey between Denmark and Walpole is approximately 45-55 minutes (41 miles / 66 km) along the South Coast Highway. The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk is conveniently located roughly halfway between the two towns.
Limited Public Transport: Public transport is minimal. Transwa operates a daily bus service linking Denmark and Walpole to larger regional hubs like Albany and Perth, but this is best for inter-city travel and not for local sightseeing.
Getting to the Region: The most practical way to arrive from Perth is by driving (a 4.5-hour journey). It is possible to fly from Perth to Albany and then drive or take a bus for the remaining 34 miles (55 km) to Denmark, but driving usually offers more flexibility.
The Power of the Forest & Coast: The culture here is deeply connected to nature. The region sits between the Southern Ocean and the vast Karri and Tingle forests. Prepare for rugged, wind-swept beauty on the coast (especially the Southern Ocean swells) and a quiet, ancient grandeur in the forests.
Local Delicacies: The region is renowned for its cool-climate wines (especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay), craft breweries, fresh Marron (a large native freshwater crayfish), and artisan products like honey, chocolate, and cheese. Look for restaurants that feature local, seasonal produce.
The Aboriginal Perspective: The Walpole Wilderness area is part of the traditional lands of the Noongar people. Keep an eye out for information that offers the Indigenous perspective on the land, including names for places and local history.
Safety in Nature:
- Beaches: Always swim between the flags at patrolled beaches (like Ocean Beach in summer). Be aware of strong currents and rips, as the Southern Ocean can be powerful.
- Hiking: Register your walk for longer hikes on the Bibbulmun Track. Carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and be aware of snakes (mostly non-aggressive, but avoid them).
- Fires: Check local restrictions, especially in summer. Campfires and even barbecues may be prohibited due to fire risk.
Hidden Gems:
- Parry Beach: A quieter alternative to Greens Pool, offering long stretches of sand, excellent fishing, and a fantastic, protected swimming area at Peaceful Bay.
- The Good Food Factory: A great family stop near William Bay for handmade ice-cream, toffees, a cidery/distillery, and the fun of Soccer Golf (a blend of soccer and golf).
- The Walpole Inlet Houseboats: A unique way to experience the Walpole and Nornalup Inlet system, offering a completely different perspective of the marine park.
- Mount Frankland Wilderness Wall of Perceptions: Located at Swarbrick near Walpole, this 128-foot (39m) long artwork encourages visitors to explore different cultural and environmental perspectives of the forest.
Top Restaurants
Pepper & Salt Restaurant [$50-$80] – A highly-regarded, fine dining experience located at Forest Hill Vineyard, known for chef Silas Masih’s creative fusion of local Great Southern produce with Fijian-Indian flavours.
The Lake House Denmark [$35-$55] – A picturesque winery restaurant five minutes from town, famed for its gourmet vineyard platters featuring produce from their organic kitchen garden and beautiful lake views.
The Dam at Raintree [$40-$65] – A stunning, architecturally designed venue overlooking a dam, offering seasonal, modern Australian dishes, cocktails, and a focus on local produce and hemp-infused products (for 18+).
Willoughby Park Winery [$30-$50] – Part of the Boston Brewing Co. complex, this winery offers a more refined food menu in a beautiful vineyard setting, often featuring local wines paired with seasonal dishes.
Castelli Estate [$40-$60] – Known for its impressive architecture and elevated location, the estate offers an Italian-inspired menu focused on fresh, local ingredients, paired with their premium wines.
Moombaki Wines [$20-$40] – While primarily a cellar door, they often offer smaller gourmet food options or grazing platters to pair with their distinctive, handcrafted wines in a tranquil Walpole setting.
Estate 807 [$40-$60] – A boutique vineyard and restaurant offering a high-quality food and wine experience, known for celebrating the region’s produce with an emphasis on seasonality.
Duckett’s Mill Wines & Denmark Farmhouse Cheese [$25-$45] – Offers a lovely setting for lunch or a platter, combining their cool-climate wines with their artisanal farmhouse cheeses and other local delights.
Flame Trees [$30-$50] – A well-regarded tapas bar and restaurant in Denmark town, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a great list of local wines and craft beer.
Southern End Restaurant & Functions Centre [$40-$60] – Located with lovely views, this venue is known for modern Australian cuisine, focusing on local meats and seafood, excellent for a slightly more formal meal.
The Marron Tale [$25-$45] – Located near the Valley of the Giants, this gourmet cafe spotlights Marron, Western Australia’s largest freshwater crayfish, in creative and fresh dishes.
Harewood Estate [$30-$50] – A winery that offers high-quality cellar door platters or light lunches, focusing on simple, fresh ingredients that perfectly complement their award-winning cool-climate wines.
Singlefile Wines [$35-$55] – Although primarily a cellar door, they often have curated local produce platters or special tasting events that provide a high-quality, quiet food experience.
Mrs Jones Cafe [$15-$30] – A popular, homely local café located in the old butter factory, known for its great coffee, all-day breakfast, legendary gnocchi, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Denmark Tavern [$15-$25] – A classic, laid-back local pub on the edge of town, serving up generous portions of classic pub favorites like parmis and burgers made with fresh Great Southern produce.
Massimo’s Place [$15-$25] – A beloved gem in Denmark town renowned for its high-quality, authentic Italian-style pizzas, using a 72-hour proofed crust and locally sourced toppings.
Boston Brewing Co. & Willoughby Park [$15-$30] – A lively brewhouse offering elevated pub classics, including house-made burgers and wood-fired pizzas, perfect for a casual group meal with a great selection of craft beer.
Denburger [$10-$20] – A highly-rated, casual spot focusing on mouth-watering burgers made with fresh, quality local ingredients, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Bar Tarifa [$20-$35] – A vibrant and unique small bar and tapas restaurant in Denmark’s main street, offering a taste of Spanish-inspired tapas and cocktails in a lively setting.
The Reminisce Cafe [$15-$25] – A cosy, welcoming café popular with locals for its hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and classic country hospitality.
Ravens Coffee [$10-$20] – A specialty coffee roaster and café in the centre of town, the go-to for the best specialty-grade, on-site roasted coffee, paired with light meals and baked goods.
The Denmark Bakery [$5-$15] – An award-winning local institution famous for its traditional and gourmet pies (like curry chicken or lamb with rosemary) and freshly baked goods—a perfect, quick, traditional Australian meal.
Green Pantry Café Denmark [$10-$20] – A health-conscious café known for excellent Stash-brand locally roasted coffee, beautiful coffee art, and fresh, wholesome options like Buddha bowls and salads.
Peaceful Bay Fish & Chips [$15-$30] – A Walpole area classic, this simple, no-frills café prides itself on serving the finest, freshly cooked fish and chips using fish pulled from the pristine Southern Ocean.
Bow Bridge Roadhouse [$10-$20] – A true local landmark in Walpole, serving as a general store, post office, and café, offering simple, hearty food like burgers and snacks for travellers.
Mal and Barbs Flaming Hot Takeaway [$15-$25] – A locally-owned Walpole favourite for over 20 years, offering generous servings of classic takeaway like fish and chips, burgers, and pizza.
Good Food Factory (William Bay) [$15-$25] – A family-run destination known for its delicious, fresh burgers, massive ice cream cones, and on-site cidery and distillery, great for a fun, casual stop.
Denmark Kebab and Gozleme House [$10-$20] – A popular, casual spot in Denmark town for satisfying, fresh Turkish kebabs and gozleme (stuffed flatbread), offering a great quick lunch or dinner option.
Hiroko Cafe [$15-$30] – A unique and authentic Japanese café in Denmark, offering traditional Japanese home-style cooking and a change of pace from the region’s Modern Australian fare.
The Green House [$15-$25] – A local café focusing on fresh, healthy, and often vegetarian/vegan-friendly options, popular for light lunches and great coffee.
Arc of Denmark Café [$15-$25] – A lovely spot often found within accommodation or a small creative hub, offering home-cooked style meals, excellent for a quiet, wholesome bite.
Thurlby Herb Farm Tea Room [$15-$25] – Part of the herb farm experience in Walpole, the tea room offers light meals, homemade cakes, and morning/afternoon tea, using ingredients from their own gardens.
Bartholomew’s Meadery [$5-$15] – While primarily a meadery and honey shop, they offer honey and mead tastings, which are a unique, quintessential Walpole area experience (food cost is low for tasting/snack).
Dark Side Chocolates [$5-$10] – A must-visit for a sweet treat; this chocolatier, run by a former winemaker, offers unique, high-quality, handcrafted chocolates with traditional and experimental flavours.
Denmark Dairy Co. [$5-$15] – A great stop for high-quality, locally made dairy treats, including fantastic gelato, milkshakes, and coffee, perfect for a mid-day indulgence.
William Bay Cottages Cafe [$15-$25] – A quiet spot near the famous Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks, offering simple, fresh café fare to visitors exploring the National Park area.
Valley of the Giants Olives & Wines [$10-$20] – A boutique organic olive grove and vineyard in the Walpole area, offering tastings of their unique olive oils and vinegars, often with accompanying bread and cheeses.
The Local Trike [$10-$20] – A small, often mobile or pop-up food vendor focusing on unique, regional snacks and meals, popular with locals for its fresh and inventive take on street food.
The Curated Plate [$25-$45] – A catering-focused business that sometimes offers pop-up dining experiences or take-home meals, featuring meticulously sourced local, seasonal produce.
MadFish and Chips [$15-$25] – A casual fish and chips shop in Denmark, known for its fresh, well-cooked seafood, offering a great coastal takeaway option.
The Dam Distilling Co. Bar Menu [$20-$35] – In addition to the restaurant, the bar often has a separate, more casual menu of share plates and snacks that pair well with their house-made spirits and beers.
Denmark Riverside Restaurant [$30-$50] – A comfortable restaurant with lovely views of the Denmark River, offering a menu that focuses on modern Australian dishes with a commitment to regional produce.
Bow Bridge Brewing Co. [$15-$30] – If recently opened, a new addition to the Walpole/Bow Bridge area offering craft beer and simple, complementary pub-style food, beloved by locals.
Valley of the Giants Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located near the famous Tree Top Walk, this restaurant caters to visitors with good quality, classic Australian food and a large seating capacity.
Scout & Hunter Co. [$15-$25] – A local produce and gourmet goods store that often sells excellent quality grab-and-go light lunches, fresh juices, and specialty sandwiches.
The Butter Factory Studios Cafe [$15-$25] – A café located within the vibrant arts and crafts precinct, known for its creative atmosphere and wholesome, freshly prepared light meals and cakes.
Pemberton Marron [$35-$55] – While Pemberton is slightly further inland, this is often a regional specialty that local Walpole restaurants might feature, focusing on the prized freshwater crayfish.
Green Pool Cafe [$15-$25] – A highly-rated small café near the famous Green Pool beach, offering fantastic coffee and light, fresh snacks perfect for beachgoers.
Denmark Good Food Co. [$10-$20] – A local deli or gourmet store that offers quality sandwiches, salads, and picnic items, ideal for a takeaway meal to enjoy by the inlet or beach.
Pepperberry Patch [$15-$25] – A local farm or small business that might offer a café setting with food and beverages that feature local ingredients, particularly pepperberries and other native spices.
Bush Camp Kitchen [$10-$20] – A smaller, sometimes seasonal, food vendor in the Walpole area that focuses on simple, hearty, Australian bush-style cooking or BBQ.
Denmark Wine Shack [$20-$40] – While focused on wine, they often have a well-curated selection of local cheeses and charcuterie to create a high-quality platter.
Wilson Brewing Co. [$15-$30] – Located outside of Denmark in Albany, but often frequented by locals for its relaxed vibe, craft beer, and food truck-style pub grub.
Albany Farmers Market Stalls [$5-$20] – Although outside the exact subregion, many Denmark/Walpole residents visit the market for fresh produce and local vendors who offer prepared food (like pastries, jams, and ready-to-eat items).
The Denmark Rivermouth Cafe [$15-$25] – A pleasant, casual spot right by the water, offering classic breakfast and lunch items with lovely views of the inlet.
Uplift Foods [$10-$20] – A small, health-focused provider or café offering nutritious, locally-sourced meals, juices, and snacks, popular with the wellness-minded crowd.
The Denmark Spice Merchant [$15-$25] – A local shop that may also offer pre-made meals, curries, or cooking classes that feature the region’s diverse produce and spices.
Bream Hole Bakery [$5-$15] – A lesser-known local bakery in the Walpole area, offering a selection of fresh bread, simple pastries, and savory baked goods.
Walpole Hotel Motel Bistro [$20-$35] – A classic country pub bistro experience in Walpole, offering hearty, reliable meals that cater to both locals and travelers.
Tree Top Walk Motel & Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located near the famous attraction, the restaurant offers good quality food and service, suitable for a comfortable lunch or dinner after a day of sightseeing.
Bibbulmun Cafe [$10-$20] – A small, simple café often found in Walpole, catering to hikers and walkers of the famous Bibbulmun Track with nourishing, casual meals and snacks.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Denmark Hotel: A local legend since 1926, this pub in the heart of Denmark town is the de facto central meeting spot. The Public Bar is open late daily, offering the “coldest pints in town,” an extensive selection of local Great Southern wines, and classic cocktails. It often hosts live music and regular themed nights like Trivia, making it the area’s most reliable late-night spot.
Boston Brewing Co.: Located on the South Coast Highway just outside Denmark, this is the region’s main brewery. It’s an excellent place for a lively afternoon or evening, offering craft beers, wine, woodfired pizzas, and classic pub fare. While not a club, its expansive lawn and large indoor space often feature live music and a vibrant, buzzing atmosphere on weekends.
The Dam at Raintree: Situated a short drive from Denmark in the Raintree Estate, this venue features an on-site Cannabis Botanical Distillery. Patrons can enjoy signature cocktails crafted with house-distilled hemp spirits, local craft beers, and their own Raintree wines on the deck or in the rock amphitheater, making it a unique and lively spot, especially on a sunny afternoon.
Bar Tarifa: This vibrant, centrally located small bar in Denmark is known for its cosy wine bar vibes and Spanish-inspired Mediterranean menu. It offers a select list of craft cocktails and local wines, often featuring live music and a warm, bustling atmosphere that extends into the evening.
Pepper and Salt Restaurant: Located on the grounds of Forest Hill Vineyard just a short drive from Denmark, this fine-dining spot offers a sophisticated evening atmosphere with an impressive wine list. While primarily a restaurant, its connection to the cellar door provides a premium setting for post-dinner drinks.
Flame Trees: Found in the centre of Denmark, this tapas bar and restaurant has a focus on mixed Mediterranean cuisine and is a great option for a date night or intimate evening. It boasts an extensive range of cocktails, local wines, and craft beers in a stylish and refined setting.
The Lake House Denmark: Located just five minutes from Denmark town centre, this multi-award-winning winery offers a picturesque setting for a relaxing late-day experience. While mainly focused on wine, their restaurant and cellar door provide a beautiful place for an evening platter and a few glasses of their cool-climate wine.
The Right Distillery: Situated at the Denmark Good Food Factory near William Bay, this small-batch distillery produces an inventive range of spirits, from various gins and spiced rums to fruit ‘cellos. Visitors can sample and purchase, making it an excellent stop for a unique pre- or post-dinner tasting experience.
Denburger: Found on the South Coast Highway in Denmark, this popular takeaway and dine-in spot, while not a cocktail bar, offers good food and a casual, reliable option for a late meal, which often serves as a low-key gathering point in a town with early closing times.
Walpole Hotel: As the main pub in Walpole town, this venue is the hub of the area’s social life. It’s a classic country pub offering cold beer, basic spirits, and a friendly atmosphere where locals and travellers gather. It’s the most likely spot for a late drink in Walpole.
The Right Distillery (Gins & Spirits): As mentioned above, this William Bay-based distillery provides a unique ‘cocktail’ experience by focusing on small-batch spirits like Rhubarb and Ginger Gin, Peanut Butter Whisky, and various fruit cellos, perfect for a tasting.
The Dam – Signature Cocktails: The Raintree Estate spot is famous for its mixed drinks and cocktails made from its house-distilled hemp spirits, with the Espresso Martini and Blood Orange Sour being highly recommended.
Flame Trees – Cocktail List: This central Denmark tapas bar offers a curated and extensive cocktail menu alongside its food and wine, making it a proper destination for a well-made mixed drink.
Bar Tarifa – Craft Cocktails: This Denmark wine bar features a selection of craft cocktails that pair well with its Spanish tapas menu, offering a more intimate and sophisticated drinks choice than the local pub.
Denmark Hotel – Classics: The main pub in Denmark is the place to get your classic cocktails, which they serve alongside their huge range of local beer and wine in a lively pub setting.