Full Day Pinnacles Desert and New Norcia

Discover Western Australia’s Unique Heritage and Landscape

Starting at $165 per person for a full 11.5-hour adventure, this tour takes you through two distinctly different but equally captivating highlights of Western Australia. We’ll visit New Norcia, Australia’s only monastic town, renowned for its Spanish-influenced architecture, art, and history, and then explore the Pinnacles Desert, famous for its surreal limestone spires reaching up to several meters tall.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances cultural history with awe-inspiring natural scenery. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly—something that really enhances the journey. We also appreciate the opportunity to taste local produce at the historic New Norcia Hotel and the chance to walk through Nambung National Park’s otherworldly landscape.

A potential consideration is the length of the day, which might feel long for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. But overall, this tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, authentic taste of Western Australia’s diverse offerings—ideal for those who love history, architecture, and striking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visits to Australia’s only Benedictine monastery and church.
• Breathtaking Landscapes: The mystical limestone formations at the Pinnacles Desert.
• Local Flavors: Tasting olive oil, wines, and baked goods from New Norcia’s produce shop.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides who provide rich context and answer questions.
• Balanced Day: A mix of walking, sightseeing, and a good-quality lunch.
• Comfortable Transportation: Convenient hotel pick-up from select Perth locations.

Exploring Western Australia’s Monastic and Natural Wonders

When we first heard about this tour, what immediately drew us in was the chance to see New Norcia, Australia’s only monastic town. Here, the Benedictine monks have cultivated a place where history, art, and architecture blend into a living museum. You’ll hear stories about the unique artefacts, some gifted by popes and Spanish royalty, and get an inside look at the Abbey Church, which houses one of only two large Moser organs in the world.

A Walk Through New Norcia’s Heritage

The guided tour of New Norcia is a highlight. It’s a chance to step into a town that feels more like a slice of Spain than typical Australian outback. We loved the way the guide explained the town’s history, transforming what could be dry facts into engaging stories. The museum and art gallery display extraordinary artefacts that include items from the original Aboriginal mission days, adding layers of depth to the visit.

While some reviews, like one from a traveler in December 2023, mention the friendly and knowledgeable guide (Paul), others cite the importance of good audio equipment, as one noted difficulty hearing without a microphone. This small detail might matter if you’re sensitive to sound or expect more narration during the bus ride.

The Magnificent Abbey and St Gertrudes College

Next, your visit to the Abbey Church is an opportunity to appreciate the German craftsmanship behind the Moser organ—a rare and beautiful instrument. The church’s architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a special stop. Nearby, St Gertrudes College, originally a girls’ boarding school, presents a grand example of Gothic architecture, opened in 1908. It’s a reminder of the historic importance of education and community in this unique town.

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Tasting and Relaxing in New Norcia

Before leaving, a visit to a local produce shop offers a chance to sample olive oil, fruit, wine, and New Norcia nut cake. We found this a nice touch, allowing us to connect with local flavors. The historic New Norcia Hotel provides a satisfying fish and chips lunch paired with local breads, olive oil, and perhaps a glass of wine—this is top-tier comfort food in a setting rich with history.

Journey to the Pinnacles Desert

After lunch, the focus shifts to the Nambung National Park, home to Western Australia’s most famous natural feature: the Pinnacles Desert. The landscape is otherworldly—tall, jagged limestone spires rising from a relatively flat, sandy plain. It’s a place that looks like it belongs on another planet.

We loved the easy-paced walk through the Pinnacles, which allows you to take your time exploring these natural sculptures. From the lookout over the park, the views are breathtaking, especially when the light hits the limestone formations just right. If time allows, a visit to the Pinnacle Desert Discovery Centre offers additional context, though this may be a quick stop if the schedule is tight.

Insights from Reviews

One traveler from October 2023 mentioned the scenic views and found the experience fun and informative. However, a review from March 2023 pointed out that not enough time was available to explore everything extensively, highlighting the importance of pacing yourself.

Why This Landscape Matters

The Pinnacles are a prime example of natural erosion and geological processes. Their eerie, mystical appearance continues to fascinate visitors and photographers alike, making this part of the tour worth every penny for lovers of natural wonders. The lookout provides a panoramic view that captures the scale and surreal nature of the landscape.

Practicalities and What to Expect

The tour includes entry fees, a hearty lunch, and hotel pick-up from select Perth locations, making it both convenient and cost-effective. The entire day is structured to maximize your time at each stop without feeling rushed, though the long hours mean you should be prepared with comfortable shoes and sun protection.

Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness—a crucial element in making the day enjoyable. The tour is wheelchair accessible, broadening its appeal. Depending on your interests, you might find the historical and architectural elements more captivating, or the natural landscapes to be the highlight.

The fact that reviews consistently mention good lunch options and a pleasant atmosphere suggests this tour offers a balanced blend of education, scenery, and relaxation—a well-rounded day for curious travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day experience suits those who enjoy history, architecture, and natural scenery in one trip. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic cultural sites and are comfortable with a long day of sightseeing. If you’re keen to see Australia’s only Benedictine monastery and explore surreal limestone formations in one go, this tour is a smart choice.

It’s particularly appealing if you value guided insights—the guides are praised for their knowledge—plus you get the convenience of hotel pickup and a well-planned itinerary. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to spend more time exploring each site, consider this when booking.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Pinnacles Desert and New Norcia Tour offers a compelling combination of cultural depth and natural beauty. It’s an excellent way to experience Western Australia’s diverse landscape and heritage in one day, with a strong emphasis on authentic experiences and local flavor.

The tour balances guided storytelling with scenic exploration, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a meaningful, well-organized day. It’s especially ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and nature enthusiasts who want a rundown of this fascinating part of Australia.

While the day can be long, the variety of sights and stories makes it worthwhile. Expect to return with not only photos of surreal limestone spires but also stories of Aboriginal missions and monastic life—a well-rounded snapshot of Western Australia’s extraordinary heritage.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 7:30 PM.

Is transportation included?
Yes, complimentary hotel pick-up is available from selected Perth CBD, Northbridge, and Scarborough hotels, making the logistics easier.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since there will be walking at both the monastery and Pinnacles. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch, with options to enjoy local produce, breads, and olive oil at the historic New Norcia Hotel.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s good to inform the operator when booking to ensure arrangements are in place.

Can I customize the tour or cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customization options are limited, so check with the provider if you have specific needs.

How much time will I have at each stop?
Expect ample time for sightseeing and walking, though at the Pinnacles, some reviews mention that time might feel limited if you want to explore extensively.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, spring (September to November) is often best for wildflowers (which aren’t always guaranteed), and the weather is generally mild.

In the end, this tour provides a balanced, immersive day of culture and nature, perfect for travelers wanting to see the diversity of Western Australia in just one day. It combines history, architecture, and stunning landscapes into one memorable experience, with guides who bring it all to life.

You can check availability for your dates here: