Colonial grandeur, dramatic coastal landscapes, and a rich cultural history
The beautiful port city of Albany is the oldest colonial settlement in Western Australia, beating Perth and Fremantle by two years. It was originally founded as a military outpost of New South Wales to head off French ambitions in the area. These days its rugged coastline forms an impressive background for a city steeped in history and culture, with stories of its original Aboriginal inhabitants and the initial convict settlers standing side by side with a fascinating whaling tradition, as well as a significant involvement in the ANZAC legend.
Albany’s heritage is one of its key attractions, and the city wears it proudly, with superb architecture in the stately Colonial Quarter, and a wealth of fantastic museums and galleries. Sights like the National Anzac Centre, the Western Australian Museum, and the Albany Whaling Station make this city a wonderful and engaging destination for history buffs. Its dramatic, magnificent coastline is also a big draw, and it boasts some of the best beaches in Western Australia on its doorstep.
When it comes to food and drink, Albany is one of the most impressive destinations in Western Australia, and has the best restaurant scene in the region. There is a wonderful range of world class eateries dotted around town, the BYOB set up at Venice Pizza Bar to the sumptuous Nepalese feasts at Kathmandu Kitchen, and not forgetting the best fish and chips in Western Australia at Ocean and Paddock! Nightlife does not disappoint either, with a wealth of trendy and atmospheric bars, pubs and clubs providing and elegant and lively vibe.