With fantastic restaurants, iconic wineries, and enchanting places to stay, the Ferguson Valley is an idyllic location to settle in for a while, to relax and reconnect. Once a cluster of agricultural villages, the Ferguson Valley is now better known as a fabulous foodie destination and for its bounty of boutique wineries producing some of the Australia’s best alternative wine varietals, as well as a handful of craft breweries. This authentic, hidden gem is a tranquil place to connect with nature and watch the world go by, feeling far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Embark on a gastronomic adventure through the picturesque Dardanup and Ferguson Valley, where hidden gems and culinary delights await.
Start your journey at the unassuming Dardanup Baker, housed in a red tin shed next to a 1960s brick home. Despite its modest appearance, this bakery is legendary among locals, offering a daily surprise of flaky pies, rustic fruit danishes, and stuffed donuts.
Venture into the world of wine in the Ferguson Valley, home to some of the Geographe Wine Region‘s finest wineries. Talisman, St Aidan Wines, Green Door Wines, Willow Bridge Estate, Ferguson Falls, and Hackersley Estate beckon with their exceptional offerings. Talisman, situated on an elevated slope, consistently earns gold medals and trophies at the Geographe Wine Show. Green Door Wines offers breathtaking views, a Spanish tapas-style menu, and a sensory wine experience. Willow Bridge Estate and Hackersley Estate, both recognized as 5-star wineries, promise an indulgent experience. St Aidan Wines, with its Moreish Monday surprise plates, and Hackersley Estate’s set-menu long lunch are culinary highlights.
For craft beer enthusiasts, the Ferguson Valley boasts quality craft breweries. Wild Bull Brewery and Bush Shack Brewery offer family-friendly atmospheres and a range of brews. Enjoy Wild Bull‘s Black Angus porter or Apple Cider, while Bush Shack tempts with its small batch brews and a diverse menu.
For lakeside dining with stunning views, Evedon Lakeside Retreat is a delightful spot overlooking Evedon Lake and the Ferguson Valley. Whether you prefer a lakeside veranda or a cozy spot by the fire, this retreat is perfect for coffee, house-made cakes, scones, tea, grazing platters, and wood-fired pizzas on Friday nights.
Explore the best of the region’s produce at Small’s Bar in Eaton, offering a diverse menu of classic and contemporary share plates accompanied by the finest South West beers, wines, and spirits.
Let others take the wheel as you embark on immersive foodie journeys through the Ferguson Valley with Hinterland Escapes and Good Vibes. Nature-based tours by Forest Explorers, Adventure Connections, and TraaVerse provide the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
For nature enthusiasts, Crooked Brook Forest offers walking trails, interpretive signage, and a chance to spot local wildlife. The majestic King Jarrah along King Tree Road is a must-visit, providing a unique opportunity to view and learn about one of the park’s largest jarrah trees.
Experience the whimsical Gnomesville, a wonderland adorned with around 10,000 gnomes contributed by the community and visitors. Discover the Ferguson Valley’s growing public art trail, with the first completed artwork themed “Grow” by South West artist Andrew Frazer.
Immerse yourself in history at Dardanup Heritage Park, a world-class collection of agricultural and industrial machinery from the pioneering past. Follow the Dardanup Heritage Trail, covering 12 historic locations across the townsite, and stop for lunch at the historic Dardy Tavern.
Choose from idyllic retreats in the Ferguson Valley, such as Wellington Forest Cottages, Peppermint Lane Lodge, Henty Lodge, Skating Goose Farm, Evedon Lakeside Retreat, Ferguson Farmstay, and the newly opened Hope Springs Farm. Each offers a unique escape surrounded by nature, whether you seek a romantic retreat, a family getaway, or a dose of farm life.