Nestled in the beautiful countryside of Carlotta, just outside Nannup, Chestnut Brae is perfectly positioned for discovering some of the South West’s most beautiful natural attractions, country towns and hidden gems.
Whether you love exploring forests, discovering beautiful gardens, swimming in natural pools, sampling local produce, visiting galleries or enjoying adventures with the family, there is plenty to keep you entertained.
One of the special things about staying at Chestnut Brae is that you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a working regenerative farm while having so many interesting places within a comfortable driving distance.
Here are some of our favourite places to explore during your stay.
Barrabup Pool
Approximately 20 minutes’ drive
A beautiful natural swimming hole surrounded by tall trees and native bushland. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic, take photographs, paddle a canoe or simply sit beside the water and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Families: Excellent for families, particularly in warmer weather. Children should always be supervised near the water.
• Access: There are picnic facilities and a viewing platform. There is also an accessible parking bay and a path to a viewing shelter, although access around the water itself is more limited. Please be aware this is down a gravel track.
• Cost: Free public access.
Kondil Wildflower Park
Approximately 19 minutes’ drive
A lovely nature reserve with three walking loops through native bushland. It’s particularly special during spring/wildflower season, when the forest comes alive with beautiful colours and interesting native plants.
• Families: Suitable for families who enjoy nature walks and discovering wildflowers.
• Access: Walking trails are relatively easy, but visitors should wear suitable walking shoes. Ground can be uneven and unsealed. Not all sections are suitable for wheelchairs or prams.
Donnelly River Village
Approximately 30–40 minutes’ drive
Step back in time in this fascinating historic timber-milling village, tucked away amongst magnificent karri forests. One of its biggest attractions is the opportunity to see kangaroos and emus wandering around the village.
• Families: A wonderful outing for children and animal lovers.
• Wet weather: Still enjoyable in light rain, with opportunities to shelter at the village store and café. Walking around is best in fine weather.
• Access: The village has sealed roads and ramp access to the general store and café. Some walking tracks have uneven surfaces.
• Cost: Walking around the village is generally free. Check ahead for café and store opening times.
One Tree Bridge
Approximately 26 minutes’ drive
A fascinating piece of local timber history. The original bridge was constructed from a single karri tree and is a reminder of the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the region’s early timber industry.
• Families: Interesting for older children who enjoy history and exploring.
• Access: Requires a short walk on uneven ground. Check road conditions before travelling. It can be easy to miss and isn’t signed well so keep an eye out.
Nannup Township
Approximately 10 minutes’ drive
Nannup is a delightful country town known as the Garden Village. Take time to wander along the main street, browse local galleries and shops, enjoy a coffee or lunch, and discover the town’s interesting history.
Things to enjoy include:
• Local arts, crafts and gift shops.
• The Nannup Historical Society and Museum.
• The Blackwood River foreshore.
• Seasonal markets and community events.
Families: A lovely outing for all ages, with ice cream at Nannas pantry being a family favourite.
Nannup Nature Playground
Approximately 10 minutes’ drive
A fantastic stop for families travelling with children. The nature-inspired playground includes opportunities for climbing, balancing and exploring, as well as traditional play equipment. It adjoins the courts and skate park too.
• Families: Great for all ages. BBQ and picnic benches available.
• Wet weather: The playground is outdoors, so best enjoyed in fine weather.
Nannup Arboretum and Foreshore Park
Approximately 10 minutes’ drive
Enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll amongst trees from around the world. The foreshore is a lovely place for a picnic, birdwatching and enjoying the Blackwood River.
• Families: Great for a relaxed family outing or to kick a ball on the grass.
• Wet weather: Pleasant in light rain, although picnic facilities and walking are best enjoyed in fine weather
Nannup Lavender Farm
Approximately 5 minutes’ drive
Just down the road from Chestnut Brae, the Nannup Lavender Farm is a lovely place to enjoy the fragrance and beauty of lavender.
You can explore the lavender displays, browse locally made lavender products and enjoy the peaceful rural setting.
• Families: Suitable for all ages.
• Wet weather: Best in fine weather, as the main attraction is outdoors. Check café and shop availability.
• Access: Mainly outdoor garden and farm areas. Ground conditions may be uneven.
• Best time: Lavender flowering is seasonal, generally around spring and early summer. Check opening arrangements before visiting.
Holberry House
Approximately 10 minutes’ drive
A beautiful country property with established gardens and an interesting collection of outdoor sculptures and artworks. A lovely place for garden enthusiasts, photographers and anyone who appreciates creativity in a natural setting.
• Families: More suited to adults and older children who enjoy gardens and art.
For the adventurous
Tank 7 Mountain Bike Park
Approximately 15 minutes’ drive
Nannup has become a popular destination for mountain bikers, with an impressive network of trails through beautiful forest country.
Tank 7 offers a variety of mountain biking experiences for riders looking for adventure.
• Families: Suitable for families with cycling experience, depending on the trail selected. Not all trails are suitable for beginners or young children.
• Wet weather: Trails can become slippery and muddy. Check current trail conditions and closures before riding.
• Access: Bring your own mountain bike and helmet. Choose trails according to your experience and ability.
Munda Biddi Trail
Access from Nannup – approximately 15–20 minutes’ drive
The famous Munda Biddi Trail is an off-road cycling route that winds through some of Western Australia’s most beautiful forest landscapes. Nannup is an important stopping point along this internationally recognised trail.
• Families: Some sections are suitable for experienced families and recreational riders. Choose shorter sections carefully.
• Wet weather: Not recommended during heavy rain or when trails are waterlogged.
Pemberton Tramway
Approximately 40minutes drive
A wonderful opportunity to experience the magnificent karri forests from a heritage tram. The journey travels through beautiful forest scenery, crosses historic bridges and stops at the Cascades.
• Families: Excellent for families and children who enjoy trains and nature.
• Wet weather: Carriages can be open-sided. Dress warmly and bring waterproof clothing.
• Access: Boarding involves getting onto a heritage tram, so check mobility requirements with the operator.
• Booking: Recommended, particularly during school holidays. Fares apply.
The Blackwood Valley is also a wonderful destination for food lovers. There are several local producers and small businesses worth discovering.
Cambray Cheese
Approximately 15-20 minutes’ drive
Visit this award-winning sheep cheese producer and discover some of the region’s artisan cheese-making traditions.
• Families: Suitable for food-loving families.
Whimwood Estate Wines
Approximately 35–45 minutes’ drive
A boutique family-run vineyard in the Blackwood Valley. Enjoy a leisurely visit to the cellar door and discover locally produced wines.
• Families: Adults will enjoy the wine experience; children can accompany adults where permitted.
• Wet weather: A good option when the cellar door is open.
• Access: Check opening days and booking requirements before travelling. Designated drivers are recommended.
Nannup Brewing Company
Approximately 10 minutes’ drive
A local microbrewery offering another taste of the region’s food and beverage culture. Check for opening hours, food availability and live music events.
• Families: Check the venue’s current family and dining arrangements.
• Wet weather: A useful indoor option when open.
One of the lovely things about the South West is that there is still plenty to enjoy when the weather turns wet.
Rather than letting a rainy day spoil your holiday, consider:
• Visiting the Nannup shops, galleries and cafés.
• Exploring the Nannup Historical Society and Museum.
• Taking a drive through the magnificent karri forests.
• Enjoying a leisurely food and wine experience where venues are open.
• Taking a heritage tram ride in Pemberton.
• Spending a relaxing morning at Chestnut Brae, enjoying the cottage, the views and the changing countryside.
The winter months can be particularly beautiful. The forests become lush and green, mist settles into the valleys and the sound of rain in the trees makes the South West a very special place to unwind.
Of course, you don’t have to travel far to find something special.
At Chestnut Brae, you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of our 70-acre regenerative farm, wander through the chestnut orchard, discover our unusual Mediterranean-style garden, meet some of our farm animals and learn about how we produce food while caring for the land.
Depending on the season, there are opportunities to discover chestnut harvesting, experience the changing garden, enjoy farm tours and sample some of our unique farm-produced products.
Whether you are visiting as a couple, bringing the children or enjoying a getaway with friends, Chestnut Brae offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature and discover the hidden treasures of the South West.
Come for the countryside, stay for the experience and leave with wonderful memories.
We look forward to welcoming you to Chestnut Brae!
• Distances: All driving times are approximate, starting from Chestnut Brae at 106 McKittrick Road, Carlotta. Allow extra time for winding country roads. We have a gravel road to get to the farm, as well as a gravel driveway.
• Transport: A car is recommended. Public transport is limited.
• Wet weather: Some forest roads and walking tracks can become muddy or slippery after rain. Check conditions before setting out.
• Bookings: Some attractions operate seasonally or have limited opening days. Always check before travelling, particularly for food tastings, cellar doors and guided experiences.
• Accessibility: Facilities vary considerably. Visitors with mobility requirements should check individual venues before visiting.
For planning, the Nannup Visitor Centre is a useful resource.
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