The perfect mini‑break for families keen to swap screens & traffic for fresh air, open space & hands‑on experiences. With nature play, wildlife encounters, history, & plenty of room to explore, this three‑day journey delivers memorable moments for kids & adults alike.
The adventure begins with a drive toward Boddington, stopping along the way at the Riverside Roadhouse. Fresh bakery treats make the perfect road‑trip fuel, while the friendly alpacas are guaranteed to delight young travellers.
In Boddington, head straight to Lion’s Weir & Hotham Park. Hotham Park offers something for everyone, including an adventure playground, flying fox, skate park, pump track, half-court, fitness zone & plenty of open space. The adjacent Café provides the perfect spot for parents to relax with a coffee while the kids explore.
For families drawn to quieter pursuits, cycle along the river, explore the Ranford Pool River Trail, or bird watch from the foreshore.
By late morning, appetite will have built. Picnic & BBQ facilities are available at the Park, or choose from one of Boddington’s local cafés for an easy & relaxed lunch.
The afternoon brings a chance to learn & explore at the Boddington Visitor Centre, where stories, artefacts & displays bring the region’s history to life. Discover the Boddington Sculpture Trail, keeping an eye out for the distinctive Len Zuks sculptures.
Dinner awaits at the family‑friendly Quindanning Hotel, where the sprawling beer garden offers plenty of space for children to roam. Stay on site at the Quindanning Hotel, or head 5km down the road to Springhills Farmstay for an authentic countryside experience that has been a favourite for more than 20 years.
Begin the day in Williams with breakfast or coffee at the popular Williams Woolshed. Alongside great food, the Woolshed also features quality retail boutiques, offering a relaxed shopping experience.
A highlight of the day is Jesse Martin’s Historical Village. Advance bookings are essential, but the reward is well worth it — an impressive private collection of restored buildings & artefacts that brings Australia’s past vividly to life for all ages.
Lunch options abound along Williams’ main street, with favourites including Rustik Rainbow or the Williams Hotel for those seeking a more traditional pub meal.
After lunch, head to Williams Lions Park, home to a flying fox & the much‑loved Williams Numbat. Alternatively, return to the Woolshed for an interactive visit to the Shearer’s Yarn Shearing Museum, where pre‑booked live sheep shearing demonstrations can be arranged.
Later in the day, continue toward Dryandra Woodland, spending the night at the Dryandra Lions Village cabins or one of the two campsites within this environmentally significant conservation area. Dryandra is one of only two remaining natural habitats for the endangered numbat, making it a truly special stop.
If time & energy allow, book the Barna Mia Nocturnal Tour, where families can encounter rare native wildlife up close during an evening guided experience.
After breakfast, choose one of Dryandra’s many walking trails, ranging from short family‑friendly paths to more immersive bushwalks through the woodland. From here, travel onward to Wandering, stopping in at the Wandering Tavern for lunch.
Finish the trail with a visit to the Wandering Heritage & Nature Trail, an easy, winding walk through town that passes a well‑equipped children’s playground at the picturesque Wandering Oval. Let the kids burn off their final bursts of energy at the playground before beginning the journey home.
Escape from city life along the Country Kids self-drive trail. Blending outdoor adventure, learning, wildlife & relaxation into a three-day experience. With plenty of variety, flexible pacing & activities designed to engage young minds, this self-drive trail offers families a chance to explore, connect & create lasting country memories.
