Northam, the largest town in the Avon Valley, is the valley’s commercial center and adventure playground.
Northam is at its busiest on the first weekend of August every year, when hundreds of intrepid power boaters and canoeists—trailed by tens of thousands of spectators—flock to the town for the start of the Avon Descent. The partying begins of Friday night ahead of Saturday’s early morning start to the 133km white-water classic.
Getting to Northam is easy—by car, Westrail or private bus, or by rail on Westrail’s “Prospector.” And once you arrive, there are many distinctive ways to see the town and its surrounds—by aeroplane, hot-air balloon, bicyle, bushwalking, camel, canoe, glider or horse.
For an unforgettable aerial experience, hot air balloon flights and gliding training or joy flights are abailable from Northam Aerodrome, along with flying and hang-gliding training.
Those who prefer being closer to the ground may like to hire a bicycle, follow the heritage trail of Northam’s historic buildings or go bushwalking through the rolling hills along disused railway lines.
Or, for the ultimate outback-style trip, go trekking by camel from the Blue Gum Camel Farm along bush trails—and park your camel at a local tavern while you have lunch! Horse-riding enthusiasts can choose horseback bush trail rides or lessons from Linzil Trail Rides.
Photo courtesy: abc.net
