Full Day Pinnacles Desert and New Norcia

Planning a trip to Western Australia and looking for a day that balances history, culture, and stunning landscapes? This Full Day Pinnacles Desert and New Norcia tour promises just that — a well-rounded experience that combines the spiritual serenity of Australia’s only Benedictine monastery with the otherworldly limestone formations of the Pinnacles Desert.

From the moment you step onto the bus, you’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the comprehensive itinerary that gives you a real taste of the region. Many reviews highlight how the guides enhance the experience with fascinating insights, making the day not just scenic but also educational. Expect to be captivated by the historic architecture of New Norcia, the majestic acoustics of the Abbey Church, and the mystical allure of the Pinnacles.

One thing to consider is that the itinerary involves a full 11.5-hour day with quite a bit of driving and walking. If you’re after a super relaxed pace or prefer more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. However, it’s perfect for those eager to pack in a diverse set of sights in just one day. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of history, nature, and scenic photography without needing to organize multiple trips themselves.

Who might love this experience? If you’re curious about unique landscapes, appreciate historical architecture, or enjoy guided storytelling with local insights, this tour will suit you well. It’s also perfect if you want a hassle-free way to see some of Western Australia’s most iconic sights in one day.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering both cultural and natural highlights
Knowledgeable guides who answer questions and enrich the experience
Value for money with included lunch and entrance fees
Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup options
Pace and duration suited for active travelers, but may feel rushed for some
Authentic experiences like exploring a Benedictine monastery and iconic desert landscapes

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting the Day: From Perth to New Norcia

The day begins with a convenient pickup from selected Perth CBD, Northbridge, or Scarborough hotels. The coach is comfortable and spacious, allowing plenty of room to relax during the roughly 2-hour journey northward. The drive through Swan Valley offers a scenic backdrop, setting the tone for a day packed with diverse sights.

Many travelers, such as Annette from Germany, appreciate the knowledgeable guides who provide engaging commentary. She praised her guide Anton for answering all questions and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The guides often share details about the local history, culture, and even point out interesting flora along the way, including wildflowers in season.

Exploring New Norcia: Australia’s Only Monastic Town

Once in New Norcia, the tour takes on a distinctly European feel. Described as “a little piece of Spain,” this town is full of history, art, and architecture. It’s a surprising discovery in Australia, with its monastic buildings, art gallery, and historical artifacts.

You’ll visit the New Norcia Museum and Art Gallery, where you can admire artworks and artifacts dating back to the town’s roots as an Aboriginal mission. Many reviews mention the fascinating collection of items donated by popes and Spanish royalty, offering a glimpse into the monastery’s spiritual and cultural significance.

Walking around the town, you’ll see the Abbey Church, which houses one of only two large Moser organs crafted in Germany—an impressive sight and sound experience. Visitors often comment on the beautiful acoustics and the grand gothic architecture of St Gertrudes College, which originally served as a girls’ boarding school.

Tasting Local Produce and Lunch

Before moving on, the tour includes a visit to a produce shop selling local olive oils, fruits, wines, and the famous New Norcia nut cake and breads. Guests frequently highlight the quality of the tasting experience and the chance to pick up authentic souvenirs.

Lunch is served at the historic New Norcia Hotel, featuring fresh fish and chips paired with local breads and olive oils. Reviewers like Jacqueline mentioned the good lunch and the overall value, especially considering the included meals and entrance fees. It’s a chance to relax, reflect on the morning’s sights, and enjoy regional flavors.

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The Pinnacles Desert: A Landscape Like No Other

The drive continues south towards Nambung National Park. This area, famous for its mystical limestone spires, is truly a sight to behold. As you walk through the Pinnacles Desert, you’ll encounter formations that reach several meters tall, bathed in the afternoon sun, creating an almost surreal landscape.

Many guests note that the Pinnacles look like something out of a sci-fi movie. From the lookout over the desert, you get panoramic views of these formations, which change appearance depending on the light. If time permits, you’ll also visit the Pinnacle Desert Discovery Centre, where you get further insights into how these natural structures formed.

A few reviews mention that the time allocated at the Pinnacles might feel limited for those wanting to explore every nook and cranny. However, the guided walk and lookout provide an excellent overview of the landscape’s scale and mystery.

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Wrapping Up and Return to Perth

The trip back along the Indian Ocean Drive offers a relaxed end to the day, with plenty of time to reflect on the sights. The bus makes a final stop at a scenic viewpoint or a local café depending on the schedule before arriving back in Perth around 7:30 PM.

Guests like Elizabeth found the trip to be both fun and very scenic, praising the balance of cultural and natural highlights. The entire journey is designed to be comfortably paced, with enough breaks to stretch and take photos.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the $165 per person price, this experience delivers a lot. The full-day guided tour includes entry fees, a delicious lunch, and hotel pickup, eliminating the hassle of organizing transport or additional tickets. The expert guides add value by sharing stories and answering questions, turning a sightseeing trip into an educational adventure.

While some might find the time at each stop somewhat limited, many reviews suggest this is a fair trade-off for covering both cultural and natural highlights in one day. The tour’s inclusions make it a practical choice for visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to Western Australia’s inland treasures without the stress of planning multiple outings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and those who appreciate guided storytelling. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and don’t want to worry about logistics, the all-in-one format is convenient. It suits travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural exploration, scenic landscapes, and comfortable transportation.

However, if you prefer more time in each location or have mobility concerns, be prepared for a brisk pace. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to a broader range of visitors.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Western Australia’s diverse appeal. From the monastic serenity of New Norcia to the mystical limestone pillars of the Pinnacles, you’ll experience some of the most unique sights in the region. The knowledgeable guides bring the stories to life, making each stop more meaningful.

While the day is packed — and might feel a little rushed if you’re a slow explorer — the value, convenience, and diversity of sights make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re into history, landscapes, or simply want an easy way to see it all, this tour promises an enriching day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from selected Perth CBD, Northbridge, and Scarborough hotels, making your day hassle-free.

How long is the drive to New Norcia?
The journey from Perth to New Norcia takes approximately 2 hours, providing a comfortable start to your day.

What can I expect to see at New Norcia?
You’ll visit the museum, art gallery, Abbey Church with its large Moser organ, and St Gertrudes College. The town has a European feel, with historic buildings and artefacts from popes and Spanish royalty.

Is there enough time to explore the Pinnacles?
Yes, the tour includes walking through the desert and visiting the lookout. If time permits, you can also go to the Pinnacle Desert Discovery Centre, but the experience is designed to give a good overview in limited time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers entry fees, a guided tour, a nutritious lunch, and hotel pickup.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. You’ll want to capture the stunning limestone formations and scenic landscapes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Please advise the tour provider when booking if you have any dietary requirements; meal options are generally flexible.

How accessible is the tour?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to confirm with the provider regarding specific needs.

What time does the tour finish?
You can expect to be back in Perth around 7:30 PM, depending on traffic and schedule.

In summary, this tour offers a thoughtful combination of cultural insights and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day. With knowledgeable guides, great value, and the chance to see some of Australia’s most iconic sights, it’s a trip worth considering for your Western Australia itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: