How to get to Perth’s Swan Valley (and how to get around once you’re there)

The Swan Valley wine region is located within the Perth metropolitan area, making it a great day trip destination with minimal travel time. But what’s the best way to get there? It’s easy to drive – but if your whole group is keen to indulge in tasting the wines and other tempting beverages available, there are plenty of other transport options. Here’s a complete guide on how to get to Perth’s beautiful Swan Valley (and how to get around to all the sights once you’re there).

Getting to the Swan Valley by car

The Swan Valley is less than half an hour’s drive from the centre of Perth (or just 10 minutes from the airport if you’re heading straight there on arrival in WA). From the CBD, you’ll head northeast on Guildford Road and soon find yourself in the historic Guildford town centre. Turn left up West Swan Road at the train crossing and in a few more minutes you’ll be surrounded by beautiful vineyards, bush and farmland. You’d be forgiven for forgetting you’re still in a city!

The attractions of the Swan Valley are clustered around a large loop formed by West Swan Road, the Great Northern Highway, and Reid Highway, so it’s easy to follow a circular route stopping off at all your points of interest along the way. From bottom to top, this loop only stretches less than 15km. If you travel around it one direction stopping at several locations, you’ll only be in the car for a few minutes at any time – meaning maximum time actually enjoying your destinations!

Going to the Swan Valley by car is definitely the best choice if:

• You want complete control over your schedule – including where you go and how long you spend at each location
• You have someone willing to be the driver for the day
• You’re planning on bringing back wines by the dozen!

Here are a few tips for a self-driving tour of the Swan Valley:

• Make the Swan Valley Visitor Centre your first stop to pick up a map showing all the attractions.
• Parking is free pretty much everywhere you’ll go, and generally not hard to come by (although some popular locations may get a little crowded during weekends and school holidays).
• There are big penalties for driving while over the blood alcohol limit in WA (not to mention it’s extremely dangerous), so if you’re visiting some of the many wineries, breweries and distilleries in the Swan Valley, make sure you have a designated driver who’s willing to abstain from tasting. A pregnant friend comes in handy here ;).

Visiting the Swan Valley without a car

If you’re just visiting Perth, there’s a good chance you won’t have a car. Or maybe no-one wants to be the designated driver and miss out on sampling all the wine (not to mention beer, cider and spirits) available in the Valley! Fear not: there are a few other ways you can get to and around the Swan Valley.

Getting to the Swan Valley by public transport

You can easily get to the Swan Valley area via Transperth trains. Take the Midland line from Perth Station (Platform 8) to Guildford Station. Trains run every 6 to 8 minutes during the daytime and the journey takes 25 minutes. You’ll need a two-zone ticket, which currently costs a maximum of $5 one-way – less if you have a SmartRider or are eligible for concession fares. 

Once you’re out there, you could use Transperth buses to get to some sights. If you’re opting for this, buy a DayRider ticket (which will allow you to take as many rides as you need for $10 [for adults]), and download the Transperth app so you can check route options and live bus times. However, the routes available and bus frequency will somewhat limit you, so I highly recommend planning to get around the Valley by using one of the other methods described below.

Using rideshare services in the Swan Valley

Uber, DiDi and Ola are all widespread in Perth, including in the Swan Valley. This could be a great way to get around on your own schedule, and is probably the method of transportation you’ll be relying on if you’re staying a night (or more) in the area without a vehicle. 

Tips for getting around the Swan Valley with ridesharing services:

• Plan your itinerary to follow a logical route so you don’t waste time and money backtracking
• Make sure you have access to data on your phone and set up an account on your chosen rideshare app before you set off
• Allow 10-20 minutes for your ride to arrive

Cycling in the Swan Valley

The Swan Valley is fairly flat and has lots of attractions located close to each other, making it possible to get around by bike. The Swan Valley Cycle Trail has four routes ranging from 3km to 32km (with suggested detours to add on). Each is signposted and takes in wineries and other attractions, with spots to stop for a picnic along the way. Download a map from the Swan Valley website.

If you’re planning to cycle the Swan Valley, here are a few things to note:

• Wearing a helmet is required by law when cycling in WA
• Take care on the roads, as they can be busy with high-speed traffic
• Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated and wear plenty of sun protection
• Also carry a good lock to secure your bike when you need to leave it out of sight

Swan Valley group tours

There’s an abundance of companies offering half-day or full-day tours of the Swan Valley. Pick-ups are typically available from central Perth locations or in the Valley itself. Browse the range of tour options to find one that suits your budget and interests. Some are all about the wineries, while others may incorporate other attractions like breweries, cideries and distilleries… or gourmet food producers, galleries, parks and other non-alcohol-focused points of interest! There’s so much to see and do in the Swan Valley, and an organised tour is a good way to hit up several highlights in a day.

Booking a group tour in the Swan Valley is a great idea if:

• You want someone else to take care of the planning
• You’re not too fussed about which wineries you visit
• You don’t drive, don’t want to drive, don’t have someone willing to be your designated driver or don’t have a car
• You want to meet other people
• You want to benefit from the knowledge of a local guide

Swan Valley cruises

The Swan Valley sits on – surprise, surprise – the Swan River, and travelling there via the water is a great way to experience Perth’s stunning scenery. As with coach tours, there’s a range of half-day and full-day cruises available that will take you to wineries and other attractions. Compare the pricing, itineraries and inclusions to find the perfect one for you.

Private tours of the Swan Valley

Want the convenience of a tour without having to share your journey with strangers? There are also plenty of tour operators offering private tours in the Swan Valley. You can travel by car, coach, or go for a more unique transportation option like limousine, motorcycle or horse-drawn wagon. There are even helicopter tours that will give you a scenic view of Perth from above before dropping you to a winery for lunch.

A private tour of the Swan Valley could be the way to go if:

• You have a large group (or are willing to splurge on a special experience as a couple or small group) 
• You really want to go to particular locations and prefer a customisable tour
• You want to be guided by a local expert 
• You want a private and personalised experience

Plan your Swan Valley wine trip!

Whether you drive yourself, book a tour or cruise, or make your way with bikes or Ubers, you’re sure to love exploring the Swan Valley. Now that you know how to get to and around the area, check out our complete Swan Valley region guide to prepare for your visit.

Images courtesy of swanvalleywine.com