Just one and a half hours' drive north from Perth lies the important heritage site of New Norcia. Founded by Dom Rosendo Salvado in 1846, New Norcia is today the home of 18 Benedictine monks. After 150 years, ancient doors have been unlocked and visitors are welcomed to a world of olive groves, church bells and secret courtyards. The architecture, with its strong Spanish influence, dominates the bush setting.
There are 27 buildings which are classified by the National Trust and the town as a whole is registered on the National Estate. The buildings house the museum and art gallery which are well worth seeing for their old paintings, manuscripts and religious artifacts.
The New Norcia Heritage Trail is a self guided walking tour which features many of New Norcia's landmarks including Abbey Church, Bishop Salvado statue, the 19th Century Sundial, Bishop's Well and the octagon-shaped Beehouse.
The local hotel is available for lunch and dinner seven days except for Christmas Day. A la carte, casual, formal dining choices and daily specials are available. Enjoy Sunday night roast dinners in winter and summer barbeques. The verandah provides a good atmosphere for relaxing drinks and meals. Dine in and takeaway meals are also available at the roadhouse. Accommodation includes hotel stays and guest houses.
PLEASE NOTE: The Western Australia travel destinations outlined above are only a small selection from the tens of thousands of Australian travel information pages available on Australian Explorer. A comprehensive list of destinations for Western Australia Holidays can be found on the main Western Australia Holidays location guide.
