Western Australia’s coastline captivates surfers worldwide, but its biggest swell rises from the vast outback plains – with no ocean in sight. Roam the 15-metre-high multicoloured granite cliff to appreciate how Wave Rock got its name, then discover ancient rock paintings and – following the winter rains – a magical carpet of colourful wildflowers.

Just under four hours’ drive inland from Perth along a picturesque route of rolling farmland and open fields is the Wheatbelt town of Hyden. From here, it’s just a few kilometres to Wave Rock.

More than 2.7 billion years of wind and rainwater erosion has created a towering 110-metre-long break. ‘Surf’ the wave from dawn to dusk, with dazzling colours of the ancient granite providing the perfect photographic backdrop to your adventure.

The epic grandeur of Wave Rock is mind-blowing, but otherworldly encounters continue in nearby Mulka's Cave, where a collection of more than 450 ancient rock paintings tells the fascinating story of a local Aboriginal legend. The area around Wave Rock inspires year-round, but come spring, purple dampiera, orange grevilleas, yellow cassia and other colourful wildflowers put on a spectacular display.

Tourists are advised to check for alerts and road/park closures before commencing their travel on www.emergency.wa.gov.au and https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au