How Far Is the Avon Valley from Perth? A Travel Guide
If you’re planning a day trip or unforgettable experience like hot air ballooning in the Avon Valley, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how far is it from Perth?
The good news is that the Avon Valley is surprisingly close, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Perth. Here’s everything you need to know about driving times, routes and travel tips.
How Far Is the Avon Valley from Perth?
The Avon Valley is located approximately 80–100 kilometres east of Perth, depending on your exact destination. The most common ballooning launch areas are around Northam, which is widely regarded as the heart of the Avon Valley.
Distance from Perth CBD: ~96 km
Driving time: 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes
This short travel time makes the Avon Valley ideal for early-morning experiences such as sunrise hot air balloon flights.
Best Driving Route from Perth
Perth to Avon Valley via Great Eastern Highway
The most direct and popular route from Perth to the Avon Valley is via Great Eastern Highway.
Route overview:
Depart Perth heading east on Great Eastern Highway
Pass through Midland and Guildford
Continue through The Lakes and past Wundowie
Arrive in Northam and surrounding Avon Valley areas
This route is fully sealed, well-maintained and suitable for all vehicles. It also offers scenic views as the urban landscape gradually gives way to rolling farmland.
Estimated travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes (traffic dependent)
Alternative Scenic Routes
Perth to Avon Valley via Roe Highway & Great Southern Highway
For those coming from Perth’s southern suburbs, an alternative option is:
Roe Highway eastbound
Connect to Great Southern Highway
Continue toward Northam
This route can be slightly longer but may avoid inner-city traffic depending on your starting location.
What Time Should You Leave Perth?
If you’re travelling for a sunrise hot air balloon flight, early departure is essential.
Most balloon operators recommend:
Leaving Perth around 3:30–4:00 am, depending on the season
Allowing extra time for traffic, fog or wildlife on rural roads
Arriving early ensures a relaxed start and avoids unnecessary stress before your experience.
Is the Avon Valley Suitable for a Day Trip?
Absolutely. One of the Avon Valley’s biggest advantages is that it’s close enough to Perth for a half-day or full-day trip.
Many visitors:
Complete their balloon flight by mid-morning
Enjoy breakfast in Northam
Explore nearby towns like York or Toodyay
Return to Perth by early afternoon
It’s an easy escape that feels far more remote than it actually is.
Public Transport Options
While driving is the most convenient option, public transport is possible.
Train: Transwa and regional train services run from Perth to Northam
Travel time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
However, because balloon flights start very early, self-driving is strongly recommended for ballooning experiences.
Tips for Driving to the Avon Valley
Fuel up before leaving Perth
Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn
Drive cautiously in foggy conditions
Allow buffer time for early-morning travel
The roads are straightforward, but early starts mean extra care is always wise.
Why the Avon Valley Feels So Far Away (In the Best Way)
Despite being just over an hour from Perth, the Avon Valley feels like a complete escape. Wide open spaces, historic towns and rolling countryside replace city traffic and buildings surprisingly quickly.
That contrast is part of what makes the journey so special — and why so many people are amazed at how close this iconic WA destination really is.
The Perfect Perth Day Trip
If you’re searching for an unforgettable Perth day trip, the Avon Valley delivers. Close enough for convenience, far enough to feel like an adventure, it’s the perfect setting for hot air ballooning, sightseeing and relaxed country exploration.
So, how far is the Avon Valley from Perth? Not far at all — but far enough to feel extraordinary.