If serenity, adventure and wilderness are at the top of your 2024 wanderlust list, there's really no better way to soak up all the magic of our beautiful West Australian boodjar (country) than on a remote station stay somewhere in the WA outback.
Set in some of the state’s most remote and idyllic locations, it feels like you've got the whole outback to yourself—making for a seriously memorable stay. At Urban List, we've chucked on the Blundies to bring you the very best station stays Western Australia has to offer. Pack the Akubra, let's hit the road.
Ellenbrae Station
East Kimberley
Image credit: Ellenbrae Station | Website
Set on Wilinggin country along the iconic Gibb River Road, Ellenbrae Station offers the ultimate outback escape. There's a mix of rammed earth cabins, safari tents and campgrounds to rest your head in and some breathtaking watering holes for swimming in. The highlight though has to be the awesome outback spa they've recently added, with two private outdoor tubs smack bang in the middle of the bush.
El Questro
Durack (West of Kununurra)
Image credit: El Questro | Instagram
There is no station more iconic than El Questro—a true gem in Australia’s North West. Sprawled across 700,000 acres, you can spend your days soaking in natural thermal springs, chasing thundering waterfalls or marvelling at the ancient wonders of Emma Gorge. Choose a spot to shack up in a swag under the stars, get glam in an eco-tent or go all out in the luxurious homestead.
Bullara Station
Exmouth Gulf
Image credit: Bullara Station | @thepsychlife_
Located on the stunning Ningaloo coastline between Exmouth and Coral Bay sits Bullara, one of our favourite stations showcasing a true-blue Aussie outback experience. While you may have seen the outdoor bucket showers on the gram, there is so much more to love about this place. You can camp or pull up a van, stay in one of their lush eco-tents or opt for a cosy cottage with views of the bush. The restaurant is next-level, dishing out the best sausage rolls and scones we’ve ever had the pleasure of trying as well as some damn special three-course dinners.
Cheela Plains
Paraburdoo
Image credit: Cheela Plains | @tonis.praks
A few days at Cheela Plains is an absolute must-do for any nature loving enthusiast. Nestled on pastoral rangelands between the Ningaloo Reef and Karajini, you can take yourself on a self-guided 4WD tour and discover gorges only accessible to station guests. Pack your hiking boots to get set on a designated walking trail through the working cattle station and try your hand at spotting some of the region’s wildlife.
Wooleen Station
Murchison
Image credit: Wooleen Station | Instagram
Craving a feel good moment? Woolen Station has you covered. Not only is this working station set amongst some of the most picturesque scenery Australia has to offer, it plays a key role in preserving and sustaining the unique ecology of the area. Wooleen Lake and its heritage listed wetlands are full of plenty of wildlife and the kitchen is top notch. Delicious home style cooking and a cellar of West Aussie wines means you’ll be able to wine and dine in style surrounded by rugged plains and rich history.
Waroora Station
Lyndon (South of Coral Bay)
Image credit: Waroora Station | Instagram
If exploring the pristine Ningaloo coastline is on your wish-list, there really is no better place to stay than Waroora. Sunbaking on stretches of white sand with a book in hand, snorkelling with turtles or jumping on a wildlife tour are all part of a day’s work at this beachside camp—just be sure you don’t miss out on a night of stargazing. It will remind you just how lucky we are to live in this part of the world.
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Wooramel
Carnarvon
Image credit: Wooramel | @charlieandtribe
The absolute highlight of a stay at Wooramel is the opportunity to soak your worries away in the naturally heated artesian bore baths. Jump in them at night for a truly magical experience as you tilt your head back and look up at the Milky Way. There’s plenty of space for camping as well as eco-tents, self-contained units and shared accommodation options.
Balanggarra Home Valley
Kununurra
Image credit: Balanggarra Home Valley | Instagram
You’ll find Balanggara next to the Pentecost River on the iconic Gibb River Road, overlooking the towering Cockburn Ranges. Under management by Balanggara Traditional Custodians, a stay here will give you the chance to be immersed in the Aboriginal culture of the eastern Kimberley and discover an authentic outback experience. Set yourself up for camping or relax in the impeccable riverside suites in between getting out and about to see the magnificent sights.
Gnaraloo Station
North of Carnarvon
Image credit: Gnaraloo Station | @dg.imagery
Snorkel and kayak clear shallow waters, take on the challenge of surfing the Tombies or experience some of the world’s most spectacular sunrises and sunsets at the insanely beautiful Gnaraloo Station. You can opt for total relaxation or fill your days with adventure at Gnaraloo Bay and 3 Mile Lagoon. At certain times of the year you can even sit back and watch humpback whales migrate or witness turtle hatchlings—something we promise you will never forget.
Nallan Station
Cue
Image credit: Nallan Station | Instagram
On the way out to Karajini, a stop in at Nallan Station will have you recharged and ready to take on the rest of your journey - especially after a cuddle with the station’s beloved corgis. The station is a hot spot for astronomy enthusiasts with some of the clearest, sparkly skies you’ll ever witness. During late winter, the region is renowned for its wildflowers and year round there’s wildlife galore.
Quobba Station
MacLeod (North of Carnarvon)
On the Southern tip of the Ningaloo Marine Park, Quobba Station is home to Red Bluff campgrounds and Quobba Homestead complete with chalets, cottages and shearer’s quarters. Rugged red plains set against the turquoise Indian Ocean water means you can try your hand at surfing, fishing or snorkelling the underwater oasis. If you’re on the lookout for a spot of serenity, we recommend pitching a tent and enjoying a private piece of this hidden gem.
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Main image credit: Balanggarra Home Valley | Tania Malkin
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