In the area around Perth are diverse natural landscapes, a number of coastal communities and an inland area of historical towns, farms and vineyards.
 

Fremantle lies on the Indian Ocean at the mouth of the Swan River. First settled in 1829, it is still an important harbour and point of first landfall for ships from Europe.
 

Fremantle has beautifully maintained historical buildings including the UNESCO recognized convict-built prison and Roundhouse.
 

At the Western Australia Maritime Museum in Fremantle, plaques display the names of every immigrant who entered Australia at this port.
 

We were able to take part in a Virtual Reality trip to Antarctica, including swimming with whales.

Fremantle Markets was established in 1897 and houses 150 stalls for craftspeople, merchants, fruit and vegetable growers and food retailers.
 

The Swan River Valley is a rich agricultural area and Australia's oldest wine region.

The natural landscape around Perth varies from deserts to forested hills, river valleys and rocky shoreline.

Guildford is a charming colonial town on the Swan River with delightful inns, cafes and antique shops.
 

The Maalinup Gallery preserves and sells aboriginal art and provides samples of indigenous "bush tucker."
 

Bells Rapids is a natural park where the Swan River drops through the rocky valley off Perth's escarpment.

A popular day-trip from Perth is to the dramatic desert of The Pinnacles, Nambung National Park. (jacob michankow, wikimedia commons)
 

Another popular excursion is to the nature reserve of Rottnest Island. (ndaaunhi, wikimedia commons)

The dramatic stretch of coastline along the Indian Ocean can be accessed from a marine highway.
 

The beach community of Scarborough has an esplanade and public pool and park.

Cottlesloe, Leighton, Floreat and Trigg Beaches offer white sand, turquoise waters, and rock pools and reefs to explore.

As elsewhere in Australia, vehicles are customized to address the unique needs of different terrain and weather conditions.