Almost a fifth of all Western Australia’s plant species thrive in the diverse landscapes of the Fitzgerald Biosphere, many of these are found nowhere else on Earth. Little wonder this flora hotspot is internationally recognised as one of the world’s most botanically significant regions, with a listing in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

Fitzgerald River National Park is the centre of the Biosphere and covers more than 300,000 hectares on the south coast of Western Australia, between Bremer Bay and Hopetoun. Only a two-hour drive east of Albany, a 4.5-hour drive west of Esperance, or a 6.5-hour drive southeast of Perth.

Take the unsealed road (suitable for two-wheel drives) and walk trails into the heart of the southern wilderness, exploring dramatic peaks, breakaways and plains.

Or follow the sealed coastal road, passing a string of untouched beaches to Point Ann – one of just three special locations in Australia where southern right whales calve in large numbers. Between July and October, you can get a front-row seat at this spectacular show.

Two camping grounds in the park offer the full wilderness experience.

Tourists are advised to check for alerts and road/park closures before commencing their travel on www.emergency.wa.gov.au and https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au