Jarrahdale and the Serpentine Dam

Australia is known for its breathtaking landscapes, and Western Australia, in particular, offers a plethora of natural wonders waiting to be explored. What better way to experience this beauty than with a road trip? 

Today we went on a journey to Jarrahdale, Western Australia, and we took along Chewie, a Maltese Shitzu pup.  Before embarking on  the road trip with Chewie we made sure to have the essentials to make him safe and comfortable in the car.  We securely fastened him in the car and also packed items like food, toys, a leash, and waste bags. 

We started the adventure driving to Jarrahdale, a charming historic town in a pristine Jarrah forest. The town was established in the late 1800s as Western Australia’s  first major timber milling operation.  We took a casual stroll through the serene Jarrah forests to a cafe called Jarrahdale Local PO Cafe.  We asked if Chewie was welcome to sit with us on the floor at the outside tables and were told that he could.

The quaint cafes allowed us to enjoy a delicious lunch in a natural setting. We had tasty ham and cheese toasties on ciabatta bread and fresh fluffy scones served with jam and cream.  The coffee was very good and served in large mugs.  

Following our  lovely lunch, we continued  our journey to Serpentine Dam, a short drive from Jarrahdale.  The dam is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike for its tranquil waters and lush surroundings. It opened in 1961 and is a major water supply for Perth.  We had a leisurely walk above the dam's edge, capturing the stunning views.

With the day winding down, we made our way back to Mandurah, and stopped at one of the waterfront cafes, Tods, to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the holidaying crowds and the water.  Many cafes in Mandurah are dog-friendly, and this one was no exception.  

 

Blossoms and an Historical Journey Back in Time

 

As the calendar flips to September, we decided this weeks road trip would take advantage of the enchantment  of spring in the air. It's that time of the year when nature, in all its glory, unveils a breathtaking spectacle at the Blossom Festival at S&R Orchards. 

We discovered that for three weeks only, the gates to this hidden paradise open to the public, offering an opportunity to revel in the magical blooms of flowering fruit trees.  We savored the sweet scent of fresh air, and captured Instagram-worthy moments amongst the blossoms.

Located in Walliston, Western Australia, S&R Orchards, transforms into a wonderland in September.  As you pass through the gates, a burst of color and fragrance welcomes you. Rows upon rows of flowering fruit trees, stretch out before your eyes, creating a magical landscape to explore.  

Petals of pink, white and shades in between adorn the trees.  

This enchanting sight is a gateway into a world of beauty and wonder.

We also found that S&R Orchards provided the perfect backdrop for gorgeous photography amongst the flowering trees and within all the alluring crafted little areas hidden within the orchard. 

It was really lovely to see families on blankets spread amongst the orchard picnicking. We grabbed a coffee at the cafe bar in the orchard before heading to lunch at a close by destination.  

We decided to have lunch at the Elizabethan Village in the village pub called Last Drop Elizabethan.  It is a hidden gem that offers a unique journey back in time.

The Elizabethan Village is a meticulously recreated 16th-century English village, in glorious Tudor style. In the hills of Western Australia.  The tavern, adorned with heavy low wooden roof beams and authentic windows of small segments of glass held together with strips of lead all exuded a warm and welcoming ambiance. 

We were comfortably seated at a rustic wooden booth for lunch. 

The menu at the Last Drop Elizabethan Tavern is a delightful blend of traditional English fare and modern flavors. We opted for Lizzie’s Steak Sanga ( steak sandwich for non Aussies !) and were not disappointed.  The combination of immersive historical surroundings and hearty delicious food made for a delightful afternoon chatting in the enchanting pub.  

Links : 

S&R Orchards : https://www.srorchard.com/

Last Drop Elizabeth : https://www.lastdropelizabethan.com/