We might be on the tail end of the Silly Season, but what better excuse than to take a break from the daily routine? School has gone back, work means a whole lot more desk time, and those beach tans are well and truly baked in.
Late summer is the perfect time of the year for some time exploring the Swan Valley. Wineries are busy with vintage, new release wines are ready for the tasting PLUS there's another long weekend just around the corner. Here are team Mandoon’s top tips to enjoy the last of this warm weather.
6. Stretch your Legs
The sun is out so why stay cooped up indoors? The Swan Valley has plenty of options to get moving. Jump on a bike and get pedalling. Everything is so close by, you won’t need to spin for too long before the next pit stop. Not got a bike to hand? Never fear, you can hire one right here at Mandoon Estate. Walkers can lace up their sneakers and slip, slop, slap the sunscreen on. Take your pick from local trails or simply stick to the estate’s varied grounds.
7. Sundown in the Valley
One of the most magical times of day is witching hour: that golden time between sunset and dusk. It is simply stunning out here amongst the vines. The Homestead is open 7 nights a week and Wild Swan is open for dinner on Friday and Saturday. We also regularly have special events on the Llawn such as outdoor movies, Chinese New Year, jazz concerts under the stars and outdoor theatre. Sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of this page to make sure you don’t miss out on the next one.
8. Get some Culture
The Swan Valley is home to a huge number of artists and art galleries. Start your day learning about the traditional cultural at Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery. Step back in time exploring vintage stores such as Goodwood Antiques and Curio Warehouse. Finally, relax with a glass of wine at Mandoon Estate and a stroll through the Linton and Kay Art Gallery, located on site just next to our deli. Filled with some of Australia’s most in demand artists, the gallery is based in the original old homestead at Mandoon where the Roe family lived during the last century.
9. Learn about the history behind Perth's oldest wine region.
How much do you REALLY know about the history of the area? Well before John Septemus Roe surveyed the region, The Noongar people (the traditional owners of the land) called this part of the world home. In fact, Mandoon is actually a Noongar word for place of many trees. Take our Bush Tucker Tasting and learn from local indigenous elder, Dale Tilbrook. After tasting some traditional bush food with Dale, taste how Mandoon’s chefs incorporate Australia’s native ingredients into the menus with a 2-course lunch paired with award-winning beer and wine. Full details here.
10. Treat yourself to a staycation at Mandoon.
Want to do all of the above? Then set yourself up at the perfect Swan Valley base. Our luxurious hotel is nestled between the vines and the river. Sleep peacefully and wake up to birdsong before breakfast to Homestead Brewery to start your days adventures. The best bit? It’s only a few minutes drive back for that obligatory post lunch nap . What could be better than enjoying a glass of wine whilst overlooking the vines it was made from!
