AllTrails has celebrated the picturesque WA region for its stunning trails.
Margaret River is renowned for its world-class wineries and enviable surf breaks, but it’s gaining global recognition for something else in 2026: its hiking trails. Popular hiking and outdoor recreation website AllTrails has released its “Travel-Worthy Trails" list for 2026 and Margaret River has found itself in good company alongside hiking destinations such as Queenstown, the Julian Alps and Kluane National Park and Reserve.
What is the AllTrails list?
Walk through ancient karri forests. (Image: Tourism Australia)
AllTrails highlighted eight different regions around the world worth travelling to this year for hiking, from France’s Massif Central to the Nantahala National Forest in the United States. The guide to the world’s must-visit hiking destinations is based on AllTrails’ expertise and the experiences of millions of users.
“We know our community loves to discover new places on trails," said Carly Smith, AllTrails’ Chief Marketing Officer. “We searched the world using real experiences from AllTrails members and insights from our local partners to select these special spots. These once-in-a-lifetime destinations will inspire you to plan a trip, or just get outside closer to home."
Why has Margaret River made the list?
Hikers walking near the idyllic Contos Beach. (Image: Tourism Australia)
Margaret River is one of the most idyllic regions in the country and the only Australian destination featured on the list. The landscape is diverse, featuring ancient karri forests, some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, limestone caves, seasonal wildflowers and coastal heathlands. Animal enthusiasts can spot Australian sea lions, whales, Western Grey Kangaroos and bandicoots.
Some of the best hikes to tackle include the Wadani Track, the Cape to Cape Track, Margaret River Explore and the Cave to Coast Trail. Each offers postcard-worthy views, unique landscapes and the opportunity to experience the region’s famed natural beauty, whether you’re looking for a multi-day hike or a short scenic walk.
Many of the more popular and established hiking trails are well-marked, with perfectly located campgrounds, or you can join guided hikes, including the iconic 4-Day Signature Cape to Cape Walk.
When is the best time for hikers to visit Margaret River?
Margaret River features a diverse landscape. (Image: Tourism Australia)
The best time to visit the region is during the shoulder seasons – from March to May, and September to November – when the temperatures are mild.
There are over 2,500 wildflower species in Margaret River, which typically bloom in spring, blanketing the landscape in vivid colours and making for a stunning backdrop to your hike.
Rachael Thompson is Australian Traveller's Evergreen Editor and a self-proclaimed cheese and Chablis connoisseur. In her role, she creates and manages online content that remains relevant and valuable over time. With a background in publishing and e-commerce in both interior design and travel, Rachael is dedicated to curating engaging content that informs and inspires. She began her career at Belle magazine, then went on to become Senior Content Producer at Homes to Love focusing on Australian House & Garden and Belle, followed by Editor at Bed Threads. Her work has also appeared in Qantas Travel Insider. When she's not writing, editing, or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars, and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list are Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Lord Howe Island.
Blend the addictive energy of dance, creative cinematic movies, captivating theatre, and energising music during Perth Festival.
Perth Festival has extraordinary roots. Born as a summer community experiment back in 1953, the brainchild of Professor Fred Alexander, it’s now Australia’s longest-running international art-based festival. From its first event at University of Western Australia, it now spans across Noongar Boodjar country (Perth City) bringing worldclass performances into the hearts of ardent festivalgoers. Hundreds of curtain calls, including numerous free events, are set to linger and leave a lasting impression on those who seek thrills that fill life’s in-between spaces. Featuring unmissable highlights from 6th February to 1st March, we’ve done the legwork for you – here’s what’s on, and where:
1. East Perth Power Station
See East Perth Power Station come alive. (Image: Jessica Wyld Photography)
Abandoned, run-down and shutdown in 1981, East Perth Power Station , located on the banks of the stunning Swan River, was reinvented in 2025 as an entertainment venue for the Perth Festival. Pack a picnic, bring the family and kick back under paperbark trees at Casa Musica – a free event featuring a melting pot of world-class musicians from Australian shores and around the globe. The diversity will have you bopping until the final encore.
A decade after David Bowie’s passing, his powerful music lives on in the electrifying show, Rebel Rebel . Powerhouse vocalists join Perth Symphony Orchestra for one incredible night showcasing the singer-songwriter’s iconic hits. Illuminate your world through the eyes of First Nation Noongar artist, Lance Chadd Tjyllyungoo in a free event. His distinctive paintings and Dreamtime stories decorate the Power Station’s walls depicting spiritual beliefs. Or settle in to watch British indie pop singer-songwriter, Nilüfer Yanya .
2. St Mary’s Cathedral
Take in Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth. (Image: Anja Schutz)
Step into the lofty ceilings of Perth’s grandest cathedral, St Mary’s, and soak up choral harmonies. Dating back to 1865, the stained-glass reproductions of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper are a talking point, add talented maestros, and the stage is set to enthral.
The international line-up is impressive. Master Irish fiddler, Martin Hayes takes to the stage with exquisite lyrical compositions from his native land. Åkervinda , an award winning Swedish quartet, weave stories of love, loss, and resilience into harmonious Nordic folk songs. The USA Grammy Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth , break all the rules. Hear their voices echo through the arched vaulted ceilings.
3. Lotterywest Films
Discover the Lotterywest Films program. (Credit: Jessia Wyld Photograpghy)
One of the festivals longest-running favourites, Lotterywest Films run a rich tapestry of cinematic features showing until 29th of March. Pack a picnic, cushions, popcorn and pop a cork under a Somerville Pine Tree as the sun sets and screenings begin. Cinema lovers, choose your poison from thrillers, deep-dive documentaries, tearjerkers, raunchy rom-coms and side-splitting comedies. The program is fantastically full, the filmmakers the best in the business, and the outdoor setting, unequalled.
4. The Embassy
Step into the old world glitz of The Embassy. (Image: Franz Bato)
Modelled on Perth’s historic Embassy Ballroom, a devilish dance venue that operated in the 1900s, The Embassy in Perth Town Hall , serves sophistication in its A-list shows. Set your sequins a’sparkle at the, What’s TINA Got to Do With It extravaganza where guest artists play tribute as they belt out the glitzy star’s hits. The returning act, Ali Bodycoat & The Embassy Big Band, will have you jiving as you take to the dance floor reimagining a bygone era. Who doesn’t like chocolate? Black-bearded drag sensation, La Gateau Chocolat puts the raw in cacao. World-renowned for his feisty range of storied songs, he reveals the inner-man come artist through his deliciously sweet and intimate act.
5. Unusual locations
Watch a star-studded cast in The Trial. (Image: Cole Baxter)
We’ve all heard of the hit show, The Office, but a spinetingling operatic thriller acted out in disused office space? Philip Glass’ nail-biter, The Trial , has a star-studded line-up. Together they deliver a dramatic ordeal showcasing Oscar-winner Christopher Hampton’s libretto; the suspense lingers after the final bow.
Sit back under starry skies and soak up dynamic dance at Ballet at the Quarry: Incandescence . Four exclusive classical and contemporary acts illuminate the amphitheatre’s stage as Perth City twinkles at nightfall. Mystery excites the mind. West Australian Opera returns again with another ‘secret opera’. Be led from an undisclosed meeting point and let the music lead to the secret.
6. A View From A Bridge
Share your innermost thoughts at A View From A Bridge.
Free, connecting strangers, and inclusive to everyone, artist, Joe Bloom’s collaborative project, A View From A Bridge has one prop – an old red telephone. Talk into the receiver , share thoughts, innermost feelings, memories, hopes and dreams as Bloom captures you from afar. The freedom to speak through the telephone movement has a worldwide following. A range of clips will be shown online.
What else to do in Perth
Taste the best of Perth at eateries like Shadow Wine Bar.
Endless blue skies crown Perth during February, making it the perfect time to explore Australia’s most western capital city. The city might be compact, but it packs a punch when it comes to what’s on. Perth Cultural Centre houses the city’s art-scene venues: Western Australian Art Gallery, WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA).
After exploring the city’s alleyways, hidden corners, and main hub, savour worldclass food in Perth’s vibrant eateries. Award-winning restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes can be found throughout; the leisurely eat-and-drink scene is literally mouthwatering, so book extra nights.
