OVERVIEW

This is a selection of the best walks on Australia's longest coastal walk, the Cape to Cape Track.  You will get to stay in fabulous accommodations like the Pullman at Bunker Bay, Caves House and Margarets Beach Resort, and enjoy chef-prepared dinners. 

We spend more of our time north of Margaret River, walking through hamlets and villages, coastal heathlands, peppermint tree woodlands and majestic Karri forest. The Highlights walk also avoids the beach walking days featured in our longer options. Enjoy being located in Margaret River area renowned for its excellent lodging and dining experiences. Why not add a day to visit the wineries?

Highlights

  • A beautiful walk alongside Boodjidup Brook, connecting Devil Pool with the ocean
  • Discover a wonderful variety of landscapes, including majestic Karri forest, coastal escarpments and pristine white beaches
  • Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs with its huge granite outcrops and two superb capes
  • Striking views of Sugarloaf Rock, summer home to red-tailed tropic birds
  • A luxury stay at Pullman Bunker Bay to wrap up the adventure

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Chance to ride out on longer walks greater than 12km. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.  C

PRICE FROM
$ 2395

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 835

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
GNARABUP

The walk will start at Gnarabup anytime after 2 pm. There’s no walking scheduled today, however, there is an excellent coastal walk and a gorgeous beach to explore. Or if you have time, why not do a tour of the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse?

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Gnarabup in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
BORANUP FOREST TO GNARABUP

Today we start in Boranup Forest amongst a majestic karri forest native to this area. We hike to the coast and to Redgate, passing Bob’s Hollow on the way, a favourite fishing hole for locals. We start this expedition with a bang as this is one of the most spectacular sections of the coastline and includes a beautiful walk beside Boodjidup Brook, a meandering stream connecting Devil Pool with the ocean. The walk culminates with views from the dunes over the coast and ends at your accommodation in the little town of Gnarabup.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 24 kms / 6.5–7.5 hrs/ a shorter option is available
Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Gnarabup in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
GNARABUP TO GRACETOWN

Today with a nice mix of walking along the coast and through the inland forest. Stepping out from your accommodation along the coast we promptly arrive at the Margaret River. This can be crossed on a sandbar, but if it is flowing heavily, we have arranged other options. The walk continues past Ellensbrook Homestead, a National Trust property where the original owners built a homestead and an operational waterwheel. Limestone is plentiful in the area, and today you’ll see Meekadarabee Falls disappearing into a cave.

Walking: Moderate / 22.2 km / 5.5– 6.5 hrs/ a shorter option is available
Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Margaret  River in ensuite studios or apartments

DAY 4
WILYABRUP CLIFFS TO YALLINGUP

Today has the longest distance to cover, but it’s scenic the entire way. Highlights include Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs, huge granite outcrops and two superb capes at Cape Clairault and Canal Rocks. The beach names here indicate popularity with surfers – The Window, Wildcat and Honeycombs. The walk ends in the beautiful little seaside town of Yallingup at your accommodation.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 25 km / 7–8 hrs/ a shorter option is available
Meals:Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Caves or Seashells Yallingup in ensuite rooms

DAY 5
YALLINGUP TO CAPE NATURALISTE (& BUNKER BAY)

This is the final section of the track. Walk once out of your accommodation all the way to Cape Naturaliste, then to Bunker Bay for the night. You’ll pass Sugarloaf Rock, the summer home to red-tailed tropicbirds. Much of the coast here is limestone cliff, with short beaches and low rocky areas. Along the way, there are striking views of Sugarloaf Rock. You can celebrate tonight with a luxury stay at the Pullman Bunker Bay.

Walking: Moderate / 17 km / 4–5 hrs
Meals:Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Pullman Bunker Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 6
BUNKER BAY AND YOUR ONWARD JOURNEY

Finish after breakfast at Pullman Bunker Bay with a transfer to Dunsborough for transport connections. Or you could ask for a late check-out and enjoy the resort facilities, have a spa or massage. Many people also like to extend their holiday with another rest day at Bunker Bay (we can arrange this for you).

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 5 nights’ accommodation at the Pullman Bunker Bay, Caves House or Seashells and in Gnarabup and Margaret River in rooms with ensuites
  • Minimum of wasted time in vehicles being transferred
  • Luggage transport so you can walk pack free
  • Chef-prepared cooked breakfasts, substantial walkers lunches and dinners
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack and national park admission
  • 24/7 support from our driver and representatives on the ground

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

The accommodations are of excellent quality and include fabulous resorts like the Pullman at Bunker Bay and Caves House. All the rooms have ensuites and are located in ideal locations, allowing us to limit your travel time in a vehicle. On most days, you’re conveniently walking in and out of accommodations.

Professional chefs prepare the two-course a la carte dinners and cooked breakfasts. There is also a focus on Margaret River regional food and wine.

Each day whilst you’re walking, you’ll be provided with a substantial Walkers Lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A Walkers Lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

Since the region is known for wine, we suggest taking a day off to visit local wineries.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1 & 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration in your overall training program. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training to increase your endurance.

TERRAIN

SAND TERRAIN

To prepare for walking on sand you will need specialised training owing to the soft and yielding nature of this type of terrain. It has a distinct impact on the body, especially the calf muscles as you get older. Sand moves when we walk and can lead to the overextension of the calf muscles resulting in discomfort and aches over prolonged periods.

To avoid this you should target exercises for lower body strength such as lunges, squats, and calf raises. Incorporate barefoot walks on soft surfaces such as grass to improve balance and foot muscle strength. Practice walking on the beach or sand dunes if you can to acclimatise to the unique demands of a sandy terrain.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

We walk the track from south to north to avoid the prevailing weather conditions.

The walk is moderate to challenging, with some long days. Full-day walks average about 22km, with 5 –7.5 hours of walking each day. The walking is over mostly flat well-walked paths, bush tracks and a few sandy sections. This is a really great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves. This is a beautiful area with many fabulous attractions besides the track, so we highly recommend incorporating a rest day.

For what to bring, please refer to Gear Advice in our FAQ section.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This walk starts in Gnarabup and ends in Bunker Bay near Dunsborough.

Flights to and from Perth / Busselton
All major airlines fly into Perth if that is where you would like to start your trip. Alternatively you could fly directly to Busselton from Melbourne or Sydney on certain days only, other states will have a stopover. We recommend looking at flights prior to selecting your start date. Do not book flights until your walking holiday has been confirmed. You will then need to make your way to your first accommodation via the below options.

Arriving / Departing via Public Transport
This is a combined train and coach service operated by TransWA every day EXCEPT Saturday. You can plan your journey and purchase
tickets through their website here

*if you must start on a Saturday you will need to use South West Coach Lines (visit their website here) to get to Margaret River and then arrange for a private transfer for the short distance to Gnarabup.

When departing you’ll need to take a short 15min taxi transfer from Pullman Bunker Bay to Dunsborough for your coach to Perth. This taxi transfer is included in your package, however you will need to book this yourself. Instructions will be in your information pack.

Arriving / Departing via Private Vehicle – Self Drive 
If driving your own car, we recommend leaving your car at the last accommodation – Pullman Bunker Bay. You will need to make your own way to Gnarabup via public transport, taxi or private transfer. There are many places to hire a car in Perth, please note there are no car rental depots in Augusta, Margaret River, Dunsborough or Busselton. The closest is Avis in Busselton. There is a one-way fee if the rental period is less than about 5 days.

Arriving / Departing via Private Transfer 
A private transfer is the fastest option and can be economical if you are part of group to split the cost. It will save you around 3 – 4 hours compared to public transport. Private transfers are subject to availability.

WEATHER

Spring and autumn are perfect times to walk on the Cape to Cape Track. Summer is too hot and with temperatures of over 35 degrees. No thanks! The average temperature in winter does, however, fall to 16 -17 degrees, so come prepared with warm clothes and good rain gear (realistically year-round). It is an epic of time to walk, and you will have the track to yourself. See the gear advice section in our FAQ for more information.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

Cape to Cape climate chart

Source; BOM

THE WALKING AND TRANSFERS

The track is flat with some sandy sections. Most of the Cape to Cape track traverses the escarpments and hills that line the coast giving you great unobstructed views over the reef shelf and the Indian Ocean as you walk. The walk is moderate to challenging, with some long days. Full-day walks average about 19km, with 5 –7.5 hours of walking daily. The walking is over mostly flat well-walked paths, bush tracks and some sandy sections. This is a really great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves. This is a reasonably long and challenging walk, and we highly recommend incorporating a rest day.

Note: On some rare occasions, it may be necessary to be transferred with other walkers.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred by our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a detailed information pack and itinerary approximately six weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Mar 2024 - 18 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $835
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 18 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2515

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $875

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

  1. Catherine S

    8 July, 2022 at 4:29 PM
    5

    The overall experience was fantastic, from communication with the team during the planning phase – including multiple re-plans due to COVID to having everything taken care of during the walk. The information provided was comprehensive and easy to follow. The days were hard but rewarded with a great meal at the end.

  2. Bee

    1 July, 2022 at 12:06 PM
    5

    Auswalk takes the pressure out of organising a walking trip.The Auswalk team are great and extremely helpful organising the trip, and ironing out any hiccups along the way. All accommodation and food is top notch. Highly recommend!

  3. Ron J and Rosa G

    1 July, 2022 at 10:06 AM
    5

    Get out and enjoy this beautiful country! Time to be outdoors in the fresh air, learning about this unique country, away from the blah-blah that eats away at our precious time is so important. Thank you to Auswalk for giving us the opportunity to explore a very special part of the world.

  4. Wendy S

    22 April, 2020 at 12:23 PM
    5

    Auswalk were extremely helpful in organising our self guided walk in W.A. we backed two walks together – the Bibbulmun Track followed by the Cape to Cape Walk. There was no detail left unattended. Our notes were accurate. The accommodations were excellent. The experience was truly exceptionally. Well done Auswalk

  5. Sandra C

    13 October, 2018 at 9:01 AM
    5

    What an experience. The walk was amazing! Andy who dropped us off and picked us up was awesome. Accommodation, food and the local community were wonderful. Auswalk self guided notes were great and everything ran so smoothly. Thank you for an unbelievable walk

  6. Fiona H

    13 May, 2018 at 2:24 PM
    5

    We have just completed the Cape to Cape Walk in WA with Auswalks – self guided but very capably assisted by the team from Auswalks. What fantastic organisation they offer – every detail has obviously been carefully researched and is tried and tested. We were grateful of the Auswalks suggestion in relation to transport from Perth to Augusta (thanks Andy from Busselton & South West Rent a Car) and enjoy the variety of accommodation which was provided for us. The meals provided were great and more than we needed for each day. The booking process was made easy by our dealings with Tash and Sanyana of Auswalks and we would highly recommend booking with Auswalks again. I had organised this trip as a bit of a surprise for my sister and her husband so all was done with the required secrecy and the information packs which arrived in the mail before our walk were very detailed and well thought out. Obviously Auswalks do their homework for all their walks and we would certainly consider a future walk with Auswalks. Many thanks for your professional service …. much appreciated.

  7. Jacquie R

    2 May, 2018 at 11:03 AM
    5

    Hubby and I booked through Auswalks the self guided Cape to Cape walk in WA. Unfortunately day one my knee gave me grief walking in the sand, but the guys from Auswalks were fantastic. I rang them to let them know we couldn’t continue walking the trail and I could only walk on flat ground. Instead of being picked up and dropped off each day they organised a driver to pick us up and take us back to where our car was located, so we could do our own thing. We continued staying at all of the accommodation that was already pre-booked and continued with the catered food for breakfast, lunch and some dinners. All of which were excellent! We especially loved staying in Augusta and Margaret River. Generally the accommodation was in spacious self contained apartments all in great locations. The only accommodation that wasn’t spacious and self contained was one night at Caves House, we were glad it was only one night. We still managed to walk 80kms in 8 days walking some forest sections of the Cape to Cape as well as other flat trails and in this area there are no shortages of walks one can do in a day. Auswalks know their stuff, they are great with managing the whole trip from start to finish and any other requirements that’s needed, especially unplanned! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend these guys, they are professional, organised and give great customer service.

SIMILAR TRIPS

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur – 4 Days

Self-guided

Three Capes, Cape Hauy and  Cape Raoul, Waterfall Bay, Fortescue Bay and Port Arthur. Dramatic coastline of sea caves and towering sea stacks.

Self-guided 4 Days From $2225 Moderate What's Included

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur – 4 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • All transport including private transfers to and from Hobart
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 3 nights’ comfortable accommodation with ensuites
  • Chef prepared restaurant meals
  • Cooked breakfasts and walker lunches
  • Auswalk guide pack including comprehensive walk notes, maps, lunch bag and container

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

Self-guided

Queen Charlotte track end to end from Ship Cove to Anakiwa. Forests filled with fauna and birdsong. Lush rainforest gullies filled with massive tree ferns.

Self-guided 4 Days From $1355 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort.
  • 3 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations
  • Walk the entire track end to end pack free
  • 3 walkers lunches
  • Comprehensive tracks notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
  • Enjoy nearly 30 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays

5 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Highlights

Self-guided

Discover the must-do walks of the Kumano Kodo, one of only two world heritage listed walks. Stay in traditional Japanese accommodations, enjoy traditional multi-course meals.

Self-guided 5 Days From $1995 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

5 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Highlights

BACK
What's Included
  • Walk our favourite walks on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi over 4 days via the magnificent shrines of Hongu and the much-celebrated Nachi waterfall and shrine complex
  • Stay 4 nights in an intimate family-run or small traditional Japanese lodgings, some with in-house onsens
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 3 walkers lunches
  • Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding rest days
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes and maps
  • 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground

Camino, Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 8 Days

Self-guided

Complete the final 100km of the famous Camino de Santiago. Walk from the town of Sarria to the iconic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

Self-guided 8 Days From $1395 Easy to Moderate What's Included

Camino, Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 8 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 7 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Walk the final 100km of the Camino from Sarria to Santiago
  • Spend each day walking alongside fellow pilgrims on this world-famous route
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
Overview

OVERVIEW

This is a selection of the best walks on Australia's longest coastal walk, the Cape to Cape Track.  You will get to stay in fabulous accommodations like the Pullman at Bunker Bay, Caves House and Margarets Beach Resort, and enjoy chef-prepared dinners. 

We spend more of our time north of Margaret River, walking through hamlets and villages, coastal heathlands, peppermint tree woodlands and majestic Karri forest. The Highlights walk also avoids the beach walking days featured in our longer options. Enjoy being located in Margaret River area renowned for its excellent lodging and dining experiences. Why not add a day to visit the wineries?

Highlights

  • A beautiful walk alongside Boodjidup Brook, connecting Devil Pool with the ocean
  • Discover a wonderful variety of landscapes, including majestic Karri forest, coastal escarpments and pristine white beaches
  • Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs with its huge granite outcrops and two superb capes
  • Striking views of Sugarloaf Rock, summer home to red-tailed tropic birds
  • A luxury stay at Pullman Bunker Bay to wrap up the adventure

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Chance to ride out on longer walks greater than 12km. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.  C

PRICE FROM
$ 2395

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 835

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
GNARABUP

The walk will start at Gnarabup anytime after 2 pm. There’s no walking scheduled today, however, there is an excellent coastal walk and a gorgeous beach to explore. Or if you have time, why not do a tour of the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse?

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Gnarabup in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
BORANUP FOREST TO GNARABUP

Today we start in Boranup Forest amongst a majestic karri forest native to this area. We hike to the coast and to Redgate, passing Bob’s Hollow on the way, a favourite fishing hole for locals. We start this expedition with a bang as this is one of the most spectacular sections of the coastline and includes a beautiful walk beside Boodjidup Brook, a meandering stream connecting Devil Pool with the ocean. The walk culminates with views from the dunes over the coast and ends at your accommodation in the little town of Gnarabup.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 24 kms / 6.5–7.5 hrs/ a shorter option is available
Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Gnarabup in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
GNARABUP TO GRACETOWN

Today with a nice mix of walking along the coast and through the inland forest. Stepping out from your accommodation along the coast we promptly arrive at the Margaret River. This can be crossed on a sandbar, but if it is flowing heavily, we have arranged other options. The walk continues past Ellensbrook Homestead, a National Trust property where the original owners built a homestead and an operational waterwheel. Limestone is plentiful in the area, and today you’ll see Meekadarabee Falls disappearing into a cave.

Walking: Moderate / 22.2 km / 5.5– 6.5 hrs/ a shorter option is available
Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Margaret  River in ensuite studios or apartments

DAY 4
WILYABRUP CLIFFS TO YALLINGUP

Today has the longest distance to cover, but it’s scenic the entire way. Highlights include Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs, huge granite outcrops and two superb capes at Cape Clairault and Canal Rocks. The beach names here indicate popularity with surfers – The Window, Wildcat and Honeycombs. The walk ends in the beautiful little seaside town of Yallingup at your accommodation.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 25 km / 7–8 hrs/ a shorter option is available
Meals:Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Caves or Seashells Yallingup in ensuite rooms

DAY 5
YALLINGUP TO CAPE NATURALISTE (& BUNKER BAY)

This is the final section of the track. Walk once out of your accommodation all the way to Cape Naturaliste, then to Bunker Bay for the night. You’ll pass Sugarloaf Rock, the summer home to red-tailed tropicbirds. Much of the coast here is limestone cliff, with short beaches and low rocky areas. Along the way, there are striking views of Sugarloaf Rock. You can celebrate tonight with a luxury stay at the Pullman Bunker Bay.

Walking: Moderate / 17 km / 4–5 hrs
Meals:Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Pullman Bunker Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 6
BUNKER BAY AND YOUR ONWARD JOURNEY

Finish after breakfast at Pullman Bunker Bay with a transfer to Dunsborough for transport connections. Or you could ask for a late check-out and enjoy the resort facilities, have a spa or massage. Many people also like to extend their holiday with another rest day at Bunker Bay (we can arrange this for you).

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 5 nights’ accommodation at the Pullman Bunker Bay, Caves House or Seashells and in Gnarabup and Margaret River in rooms with ensuites
  • Minimum of wasted time in vehicles being transferred
  • Luggage transport so you can walk pack free
  • Chef-prepared cooked breakfasts, substantial walkers lunches and dinners
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack and national park admission
  • 24/7 support from our driver and representatives on the ground
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

The accommodations are of excellent quality and include fabulous resorts like the Pullman at Bunker Bay and Caves House. All the rooms have ensuites and are located in ideal locations, allowing us to limit your travel time in a vehicle. On most days, you’re conveniently walking in and out of accommodations.

Professional chefs prepare the two-course a la carte dinners and cooked breakfasts. There is also a focus on Margaret River regional food and wine.

Each day whilst you’re walking, you’ll be provided with a substantial Walkers Lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A Walkers Lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

Since the region is known for wine, we suggest taking a day off to visit local wineries.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1 & 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration in your overall training program. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training to increase your endurance.

TERRAIN

SAND TERRAIN

To prepare for walking on sand you will need specialised training owing to the soft and yielding nature of this type of terrain. It has a distinct impact on the body, especially the calf muscles as you get older. Sand moves when we walk and can lead to the overextension of the calf muscles resulting in discomfort and aches over prolonged periods.

To avoid this you should target exercises for lower body strength such as lunges, squats, and calf raises. Incorporate barefoot walks on soft surfaces such as grass to improve balance and foot muscle strength. Practice walking on the beach or sand dunes if you can to acclimatise to the unique demands of a sandy terrain.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

We walk the track from south to north to avoid the prevailing weather conditions.

The walk is moderate to challenging, with some long days. Full-day walks average about 22km, with 5 –7.5 hours of walking each day. The walking is over mostly flat well-walked paths, bush tracks and a few sandy sections. This is a really great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves. This is a beautiful area with many fabulous attractions besides the track, so we highly recommend incorporating a rest day.

For what to bring, please refer to Gear Advice in our FAQ section.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This walk starts in Gnarabup and ends in Bunker Bay near Dunsborough.

Flights to and from Perth / Busselton
All major airlines fly into Perth if that is where you would like to start your trip. Alternatively you could fly directly to Busselton from Melbourne or Sydney on certain days only, other states will have a stopover. We recommend looking at flights prior to selecting your start date. Do not book flights until your walking holiday has been confirmed. You will then need to make your way to your first accommodation via the below options.

Arriving / Departing via Public Transport
This is a combined train and coach service operated by TransWA every day EXCEPT Saturday. You can plan your journey and purchase
tickets through their website here

*if you must start on a Saturday you will need to use South West Coach Lines (visit their website here) to get to Margaret River and then arrange for a private transfer for the short distance to Gnarabup.

When departing you’ll need to take a short 15min taxi transfer from Pullman Bunker Bay to Dunsborough for your coach to Perth. This taxi transfer is included in your package, however you will need to book this yourself. Instructions will be in your information pack.

Arriving / Departing via Private Vehicle – Self Drive 
If driving your own car, we recommend leaving your car at the last accommodation – Pullman Bunker Bay. You will need to make your own way to Gnarabup via public transport, taxi or private transfer. There are many places to hire a car in Perth, please note there are no car rental depots in Augusta, Margaret River, Dunsborough or Busselton. The closest is Avis in Busselton. There is a one-way fee if the rental period is less than about 5 days.

Arriving / Departing via Private Transfer 
A private transfer is the fastest option and can be economical if you are part of group to split the cost. It will save you around 3 – 4 hours compared to public transport. Private transfers are subject to availability.

WEATHER

Spring and autumn are perfect times to walk on the Cape to Cape Track. Summer is too hot and with temperatures of over 35 degrees. No thanks! The average temperature in winter does, however, fall to 16 -17 degrees, so come prepared with warm clothes and good rain gear (realistically year-round). It is an epic of time to walk, and you will have the track to yourself. See the gear advice section in our FAQ for more information.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

Cape to Cape climate chart

Source; BOM

THE WALKING AND TRANSFERS

The track is flat with some sandy sections. Most of the Cape to Cape track traverses the escarpments and hills that line the coast giving you great unobstructed views over the reef shelf and the Indian Ocean as you walk. The walk is moderate to challenging, with some long days. Full-day walks average about 19km, with 5 –7.5 hours of walking daily. The walking is over mostly flat well-walked paths, bush tracks and some sandy sections. This is a really great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves. This is a reasonably long and challenging walk, and we highly recommend incorporating a rest day.

Note: On some rare occasions, it may be necessary to be transferred with other walkers.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred by our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a detailed information pack and itinerary approximately six weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Mar 2024 - 18 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $835
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 18 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2515

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $875
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

  1. Catherine S

    8 July, 2022 at 4:29 PM
    5

    The overall experience was fantastic, from communication with the team during the planning phase – including multiple re-plans due to COVID to having everything taken care of during the walk. The information provided was comprehensive and easy to follow. The days were hard but rewarded with a great meal at the end.

  2. Bee

    1 July, 2022 at 12:06 PM
    5

    Auswalk takes the pressure out of organising a walking trip.The Auswalk team are great and extremely helpful organising the trip, and ironing out any hiccups along the way. All accommodation and food is top notch. Highly recommend!

  3. Ron J and Rosa G

    1 July, 2022 at 10:06 AM
    5

    Get out and enjoy this beautiful country! Time to be outdoors in the fresh air, learning about this unique country, away from the blah-blah that eats away at our precious time is so important. Thank you to Auswalk for giving us the opportunity to explore a very special part of the world.

  4. Wendy S

    22 April, 2020 at 12:23 PM
    5

    Auswalk were extremely helpful in organising our self guided walk in W.A. we backed two walks together – the Bibbulmun Track followed by the Cape to Cape Walk. There was no detail left unattended. Our notes were accurate. The accommodations were excellent. The experience was truly exceptionally. Well done Auswalk

  5. Sandra C

    13 October, 2018 at 9:01 AM
    5

    What an experience. The walk was amazing! Andy who dropped us off and picked us up was awesome. Accommodation, food and the local community were wonderful. Auswalk self guided notes were great and everything ran so smoothly. Thank you for an unbelievable walk

  6. Fiona H

    13 May, 2018 at 2:24 PM
    5

    We have just completed the Cape to Cape Walk in WA with Auswalks – self guided but very capably assisted by the team from Auswalks. What fantastic organisation they offer – every detail has obviously been carefully researched and is tried and tested. We were grateful of the Auswalks suggestion in relation to transport from Perth to Augusta (thanks Andy from Busselton & South West Rent a Car) and enjoy the variety of accommodation which was provided for us. The meals provided were great and more than we needed for each day. The booking process was made easy by our dealings with Tash and Sanyana of Auswalks and we would highly recommend booking with Auswalks again. I had organised this trip as a bit of a surprise for my sister and her husband so all was done with the required secrecy and the information packs which arrived in the mail before our walk were very detailed and well thought out. Obviously Auswalks do their homework for all their walks and we would certainly consider a future walk with Auswalks. Many thanks for your professional service …. much appreciated.

  7. Jacquie R

    2 May, 2018 at 11:03 AM
    5

    Hubby and I booked through Auswalks the self guided Cape to Cape walk in WA. Unfortunately day one my knee gave me grief walking in the sand, but the guys from Auswalks were fantastic. I rang them to let them know we couldn’t continue walking the trail and I could only walk on flat ground. Instead of being picked up and dropped off each day they organised a driver to pick us up and take us back to where our car was located, so we could do our own thing. We continued staying at all of the accommodation that was already pre-booked and continued with the catered food for breakfast, lunch and some dinners. All of which were excellent! We especially loved staying in Augusta and Margaret River. Generally the accommodation was in spacious self contained apartments all in great locations. The only accommodation that wasn’t spacious and self contained was one night at Caves House, we were glad it was only one night. We still managed to walk 80kms in 8 days walking some forest sections of the Cape to Cape as well as other flat trails and in this area there are no shortages of walks one can do in a day. Auswalks know their stuff, they are great with managing the whole trip from start to finish and any other requirements that’s needed, especially unplanned! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend these guys, they are professional, organised and give great customer service.

Similar Trips

SIMILAR TRIPS

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur – 4 Days

Self-guided

Three Capes, Cape Hauy and  Cape Raoul, Waterfall Bay, Fortescue Bay and Port Arthur. Dramatic coastline of sea caves and towering sea stacks.

Self-guided 4 Days From $2225 Moderate What's Included

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur – 4 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • All transport including private transfers to and from Hobart
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 3 nights’ comfortable accommodation with ensuites
  • Chef prepared restaurant meals
  • Cooked breakfasts and walker lunches
  • Auswalk guide pack including comprehensive walk notes, maps, lunch bag and container

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

Self-guided

Queen Charlotte track end to end from Ship Cove to Anakiwa. Forests filled with fauna and birdsong. Lush rainforest gullies filled with massive tree ferns.

Self-guided 4 Days From $1355 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort.
  • 3 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations
  • Walk the entire track end to end pack free
  • 3 walkers lunches
  • Comprehensive tracks notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
  • Enjoy nearly 30 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays

5 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Highlights

Self-guided

Discover the must-do walks of the Kumano Kodo, one of only two world heritage listed walks. Stay in traditional Japanese accommodations, enjoy traditional multi-course meals.

Self-guided 5 Days From $1995 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

5 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Highlights

BACK
What's Included
  • Walk our favourite walks on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi over 4 days via the magnificent shrines of Hongu and the much-celebrated Nachi waterfall and shrine complex
  • Stay 4 nights in an intimate family-run or small traditional Japanese lodgings, some with in-house onsens
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 3 walkers lunches
  • Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding rest days
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes and maps
  • 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground

Camino, Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 8 Days

Self-guided

Complete the final 100km of the famous Camino de Santiago. Walk from the town of Sarria to the iconic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

Self-guided 8 Days From $1395 Easy to Moderate What's Included

Camino, Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 8 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 7 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Walk the final 100km of the Camino from Sarria to Santiago
  • Spend each day walking alongside fellow pilgrims on this world-famous route
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches

blog

March 18, 2024

HIKING THE HIMALAYAS 35 YEARS ON

Read More
March 4, 2024

What’s the right Camino de Santiago route for me?

Read More
February 16, 2024

Larapinta Loonies – A poem by Auswalker Michael Gibbs about walking the Larapinta Trail

Read More
January 12, 2024

Nakasendo Way Trail – by Sam Ludbey

Read More
April 19, 2023

H is for Hiking

Read More
March 27, 2023

Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail – Overview of the Routes

Read More
March 20, 2023

The Kumano Kodo Trail – an Ancient Japanese Pilgrimage

Read More
March 15, 2023

The Three Capes Track – an Ultimate Guide to Hiking

Read More
February 13, 2023

Why Hiking is a No Brainer for Life Planning

Read More
January 31, 2023

Larapinta Trail – What is the Best Time of Year to Walk?

Read More

ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.

Get in touch