Whether you're a food lover, wine connoisseur, art enthusiast, or nature seeker, the Swan Valley and its leafy neighbour, Viveash, offer an authentic slice of the dream WA lifestyle. While the region boasts some big names in wine and tourism, the true soul of the area lies in its hidden gems - the family-owned wineries, tucked-away eateries, and artistic hideaways that locals cherish.
In this guide, we uncover some of the best-kept secrets and must-see stops for visitors and locals alike.
Boutique Wineries & Cellar Doors You Can’t Miss
The Swan Valley is WA’s oldest wine region, and while many visitors flock to the well-known names, the small, boutique wineries are where you’ll find truly personal, memorable experiences.
Lancaster Wines is a rustic gem that perfectly embodies the Valley's unique charm. Known for its legendary laid-back vibe and unpretentious atmosphere, take a seat at the bar of its famous outdoor tasting shed. Put together your own Grazing Platter from our extensive selection of gourmet cheeses, meats and antipasto.
Just around the corner lies Olive Farm Wines, a fourth-generation winery with a contemporary cellar door. Their diverse range is broad, crisp whites, rich reds, and even fortified wines, but locals rave about their sparkling Durif. The adjacent cafe, The Cheese Barrel, a part of Olive Farm Wines, offers gourmet cheese platters and coffee with vineyard views.
Perched on a gentle hillside, Sittella Winery combines elegance with local flair. The winery offers sweeping views of the vines and a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. It’s a fantastic spot for a long lunch or celebratory meal, with standout sparkling wines and a seasonal menu showcasing WA produce.
If you want some help putting an itinerary together, visit the Swan Valley Visitor Centre. The passionate team there are passionate about keeping the mantle of 'best visitor centre' and will be more than happy to help plan a day filled with award-winning wines and boutique breweries.
Award Winning Local Eateries & Farm-to-Table Dining
Dining in this region isn’t just about flavour, it’s about connection. From paddock-to-plate menus to garden cafés that welcome the whole family (pets included!), there’s no shortage of standout spots throughout both Viveash and the Valley.
Start your day at The Naked Fox, a relaxed wine bar and kitchen tucked away in the Guildford end of the valley. Known for its modern brunch menu, WA wines, and hand-crafted coffee, it’s a local favourite for everything from weekend breakfast to wine tastings with a twist. The cosy interior and leafy alfresco seating make it a top pick for laid-back catch-ups.
Swan Valley Station offers a unique blend of nursery, café, and mini-farm all in one. Ideal for families, it serves hearty breakfasts and fresh lunches sourced from local growers. With a kids’ play area, resident animals, and space to roam, it’s a hit with little ones and parents alike.
For a more refined yet still down-to-earth experience, RiverBank Estate Restaurant delivers in spades. Nestled among the vines just off the Great Northern Highway, this award-winning winery and restaurant is passionate about seasonal ingredients and bold, flavour-driven dishes. Think slow-cooked lamb shoulder, heirloom vegetables, and house-made sauces, paired perfectly with estate wines, of course. Discover more must-visit restaurants in Swan Valley, WA, here.
If you're after the freshest produce and an authentic community vibe, look no further than the Midland Town Hall Farmers Market. Just five minutes from Viveash, this historic market runs every Sunday and is a treasure trove of fresh fruit and veg, artisan bread, honey, jams, and handmade crafts. Set in the beautiful old town hall, it’s the perfect Sunday morning ritual—grab a coffee, browse the stalls, and support the locals.
Creative Corners & Cultural Experiences
If you're in search of an unforgettable art, culture, and local heritage experience, there are many. And they're often hiding in plain sight.
Gomboc Gallery Sculpture Park is a must-see for art lovers. This expansive outdoor gallery features works from renowned Australian and international artists, scattered across manicured grounds. The indoor gallery rotates exhibitions regularly, offering a peaceful retreat into the region’s creative soul.
Closer to home, Viveash's Maali Bridge Trail isn’t just a riverside walk; it’s a cultural journey. The trail is dotted with artworks and installations inspired by Noongar culture and the area’s rich Aboriginal history. It's a beautiful way to connect with the land and deepen your understanding of its stories.
The Midland Junction Arts Centre is another cultural cornerstone. Housed in a heritage building, it hosts exhibitions, creative workshops, and performances all year round. From ceramics to painting, music to markets, this vibrant hub celebrates creativity and community in equal measure.
Nature Walks & Outdoor Escapes
The Viveash and Swan Valley region may be best known for food and wine, but its natural offerings are equally impressive, especially for families, dog walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Reg Bond Reserve, located along the banks of the Swan River in Viveash, is a quiet green oasis ideal for morning jogs, picnics, or simply soaking in the scenery. With river views and native bushland, it’s a peaceful retreat that feels worlds away from the city.
For those with little ones, Woodbridge Riverside Park is a playground paradise. Featuring a large adventure playground, water play area, BBQs and picnic spots, it’s a top pick for weekend family fun.
Don’t miss a stroll over the Maali Bridge Trail, which links Viveash's riverside paths and Woodbridge. The walkways that hug the river from Rivermark are perfect for birdwatching, photography, or just clearing your head with the sounds of nature.
Finally, the Swan River Foreshore Trails are perfect for all ages, offering stunning Swan River views while cycling or strolling along these family-friendly pathways. With a 5.5km network of riverside trails, leading all the way from the Swan River foreshore reserve to Perth City, it's the ideal way to explore the great outdoors.
Discover a Life of Plenty
With so much to eat, see, and explore, it's no wonder that Viveash has become one of Perth’s most sought-after suburbs. And at the heart of it all is Rivermark - a new master-planned community that offers the ultimate blend of lifestyle, location, and livability.
Nestled within the established suburb of Viveash, Rivermark is a vibrant community that puts you at the heart of it all - exceptional wine and dining, fresh local produce, cultural experiences, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Stay local and enjoy a meal at celebrated local venues like The Guildford Hotel, or take the short drive to the Swan Valley to explore more than 40 world-class wineries, award-winning eateries, rich cultural experiences and more.
Whether you’re looking for a spacious family block, a low-maintenance lifestyle, or a peaceful place to downsize, Rivermark has something to suit every stage of life. Designed to embrace the beauty of the natural landscape, it’s a modern community with an old-soul heart, where you can raise a family, entertain friends, and connect with nature daily.
With land now available in Viveash, it’s the perfect time to start your next chapter in a place that feels like a permanent getaway.