A Traveller’s Guide to Gnomesville WA: A Quirky Adventure

Welcome to Gnomesville, WA, a unique and enchanting gnome village nestled in Ferguson Valley, Western Australia. 

Discovered during our Perth to Margaret River road trip in late 2023, this quirky gnome village was an unexpected delight.

As a long-time Perth resident (since 1996) and seasoned traveller, I thought I knew all the local secrets. Yet, Gnomesville, just over two hours south of Perth, with its quirky community of garden gnomes, was a recent and magical discovery.

This whimsical spot remained a mystery despite countless trips south during my children’s younger years.

So, is Gnomesville worth visiting? It won’t take you long to hear what we think!

Join Lars and me as we unveil the charm and allure of Gnomesville, a place that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

In this post, we’ll take you through the mystical world of Gnomesville, blending our own experiences with sprinkles of visitor quotes and giving you a mosaic of perspectives on this must-visit destination.

Visiting Gnomesville is ‘gnome’ small feat – it’s a big adventure in a tiny package!

And be warned, you might just encounter a few ‘gnome’ puns along the way – they’re an essential part of the charm!

Are you ready to step into a world where the enchanting and the playful collide? Let’s embark on this gnome-filled journey together.

And the extra kicker?

It’s absolutely free to visit. That’s right, this one-of-a-kind adventure won’t cost you a gnome’s ransom!

For those looking to travel frugally, a visit to Gnomesville could be a highlight of a budget-friendly trip.

Discovering Gnomesville: An Enchanting Encounter with Thousands of Garden Gnomes

As I stepped into the world of Gnomesville, I was instantly captivated by the variety of gnomes. Each one seemed to have its own personality, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of childlike wonder.

It was as if, in my imagination, they would all spring to life, like the toys in ‘Toy Story’, once the visitors had left.’

Gnomesville, with its vast collection of garden gnomes, is a sight to behold. Tucked away in the scenic Ferguson Valley, it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of Perth. 

The Senses and Stories of Gnomesville

Amidst the visual feast that is Gnomesville, it’s the vibrant chorus of nature and human delight that completes the sensory canvas.

Birdsong weaves through children’s laughter as they dart from one gnome to the next, exclaiming in joy at each new discovery.

The air carries whispers of whimsy, with excited murmurs of ‘Look at this one!’ punctuating the tranquil ambience of the valley.

The atmosphere buzzes with a whimsical delight that lingers, enchanting visitors of all ages.

I overheard some older ladies nostalgically recounting their previous visits; they had contributed their own gnomes to this ever-growing community.

Sadly, they mused that their gnomes might have been carried away by the flood that once swept through here—a natural event that has since woven itself into the rich tapestry of Gnomesville’s history.

For those curious about this chapter of the village’s story, there’s a touching ABC TV feature on YouTube documenting the flood’s impact and the resilience of the gnome community.

Unravelling the Mystical Origins of Gnomesville

The true origin of Gnomesville has been shrouded in mystery. Some say it started with a single gnome left by a woman who enjoyed repairing them. Others believe it began as a playful act by local workmen.

However, if you pay attention to the sign at Gnomesville, it tells you that this miniature world of fun all began when local Kathleen Rees (now Kelsey) placed a gnome in the hollow of an old redgum near the newly built roundabout in the early 90s.

And from these small beginnings, the Gnomesville of today grew.

Gnomesville Through the Years

Despite facing challenges such as the Great Gnomesville Flood of 2018, which sadly washed away many gnomes, the community has shown remarkable resilience.

Since then, efforts have been made to clean and rearrange Gnomesville, ensuring its preservation for future visitors.

Today, visitors can appreciate the enhancements, including pathways, parking, picnic tables, and even toilets, making the visit more comfortable and accessible. It’s a testament to the community’s dedication to this charming attraction.

From the great Gnomesville flood to the addition of the latest gnome, this place has a rich history. It has grown organically, with each visitor leaving a part of themselves behind in the form of a gnome.

Gnomesville has grown into a beloved tourist attraction, captivating visitors from around the globe. With an estimate of there being over 5000 gnomish residents, it’s a gnome-brainer to visit!  

“There are Gnomes from all walks of life and all over the world. We even managed to find gnomes that had migrated from Brisbane.” 

Gnomesville visitor

The Allure of Gnomesville in Australia’s Ferguson Valley

The appeal of Gnomesville lies in its uniqueness. Each gnome here has a story, contributed by families, locals, and tourists. But Gnomesville isn’t only about the gnomes; it’s about the collective spirit they represent.

As you wander through Gnomesville, you’ll encounter a vast array of gnomes, each with its own unique personality and backstory.

From gnomes playing cricket to those basking in the sun, the diversity and creativity on display are truly remarkable.

Reading through other visitors’ reviews, I found that Gnomesville evokes a spectrum of emotions. Some described it as a bit eerie, akin to a cemetery, due to the disarray of some gnomes.

However, my experience was predominantly positive, with the playful and cheerful nature of the gnomes overshadowing any sense of gloom. There were a few broken ones, and some needed a little TLC, but overall, I thought the experience was enchanting.

Even the Perth footy teams have their supporters in the Valley! Showing us that just because you support different teams doesn’t mean you can’t hang out together.

Rival footy clubs, the West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers can be proud of their gnome support getting along in the Ferguson Valley.

And don’t be surprised if the gnomes give you a ‘gnome-warming’ welcome!

“Gnomesville exceeded my expectations… you just want to keep wandering through, losing yourself in the magic of the gnomes’ world.”

– Gnomesville visitor

A place like this reminds you of the importance of a smile – something you’ll be doing a lot of here!

Gnomesville in the Spotlight: Bill Bailey’s Comedic Take

Recently, Gnomesville also caught the attention of comedian Bill Bailey in his documentary, ‘Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia’.

While exploring the gnome-filled wonderland, Bailey humorously observed the local kookaburras’ reactions, quipping, ‘Even the kookaburras are embarrassed.‘

This moment perfectly captures the quirky and light-hearted spirit of Gnomesville. If you’re curious to see Gnomesville through Bailey’s eyes, you can watch the episode on ABC iVIEW here or on Apple TV here.

The Mystical World of Gnomes: Folklore and Cultural Significance

Gnomes have long held a special place in folklore, often portrayed as mystical creatures that come to life at night to help in gardens. This cultural significance of gnomes adds an enchanting dimension to Gnomesville.

Gnomes in Folklore

Traditionally, gnomes are seen as earth-dwelling spirits, guardians of the underworld treasures, and wildlife caretakers. They’re believed to be wise, charitable, and skilled in the art of magic.

These beliefs originated from European mythology, where gnomes were considered good luck charms, especially for farmers and gardeners.

Reflection in Gnomesville

Gnomesville brings these legends to life, creating a magical atmosphere where each gnome seems to have its own story. As you explore the village, you can sense the mystical aura surrounding these garden guardians.

It’s easy to imagine them bustling around at night, tending to the natural world and safeguarding their community.

Keep an ‘eye’ out – some gnomes are a bit ‘gnome-torious’ for their cheeky antics.

A Living Tribute to Gnome Lore

In Gnomesville, each gnome is more than a whimsical figure; they are heartfelt contributions from individuals, families, clubs, and groups, each telling its own story.

Some are left by families like the Pinkertons, who marked their visit with gnomes wearing pink hats, creating a colourful homage to their shared moments.

Others serve as tender memorials, commemorating loved ones who have passed away.

These touching tributes bring a human dimension to the gnome lore, turning Gnomesville into a mosaic of memories and stories.

“Amazing quirky place… a good idea with a lot of community support can do!”

Gnomesville visitor

Continuing the Legacy: Your Gnome’s New Home

Visitors looking to leave a part of their own story can find the perfect gnome at the Dardanup Visitor Centre in Ferguson Valley, ready to join the ranks of Gnomesville’s eclectic residents.

💡Visitor’s Centre: Volunteers manage the Ferguson Valley Visitor Centre, which is open from 10 am to 2 pm most days. 

Together, these gnomes, with their unique characteristics and traits, whether mischievous or wise, form a living tapestry that embodies the magical essence of gnome folklore and the spirit of the community that cherishes them.

Personalizing your gnome with a sign indicating its origin or story adds to the rich tapestry of this whimsical village. It’s a way to leave your mark and become part of Gnomesville’s ever-growing story.

Like this “Born to Ride” cool gnome pictured below!

And speaking of born to ride, are you planning on this road trip with your partner? If so, check out our tips on travelling together as a couple – we’ve some useful tips to make the journey more fun -especially if you are on a long road trip!

Where is Gnomesville, WA? Getting to the Heart of Gnome Magic

You’ll find Gnomesville at the junction of Wellington Mill and Ferguson Roads. Here’s the link to Google Maps.

Address:
LOT 4059 Wellington Mill Road
Wellington Mill
Western Australia 6236

Getting to Gnomesville from Perth: Just over 2 hours drive

Gnomesville is just over a 2-hour drive from Perth, making it an ideal day trip.

The journey itself is part of the adventure, taking you through some of WA’s most picturesque landscapes and the rolling hills and wineries of Ferguson Valley.

Getting to Gnomesville from Bunbury: 30 mins drive

“Under the shaded eucalyptus trees amongst many characters with red pointed caps… A restful, relaxing day in the Ferguson Valley forest.“

-Gnomesville visitor

If you are heading ‘down south’ in WA, some of our favourite parts of the south-west are Pemberton and Walpole. And if you love quirky and all things fun, you will absolutely love the Walpole WOW Wilderness cruise by Gary Muir.

He has to be one of the best tour guides we have ever come across, and we only took the tour because so many of our friends recommended it.

Sustainable Tourism in Gnomesville

We all have a role to play in preserving the beauty and charm of Gnomesville. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and the gnomes.

Remember, this magical place thrives on the love and care of its visitors.

Respect the Rules

• Respect Gnomesville: Leave gnomes in their home
• Respect Our Neighbours: By placing new gnomes within the boundary fences
• Respect the Natural Environment: By leaving plants, trees and roots untouched and do not attach anything to trees
• Respect others: By taking your litter with you

Planning Your Visit to Gnomesville: Tips and Advice

Remember a few things when visiting: you can bring your dog, but keep it leashed. While you can’t buy gnomes at Gnomesville, you can bring your own to the collection.

Before setting off to Gnomesville, be sure to plan your journey with our handy printable road trip planner, perfect for organizing your adventure down to the last detail.

Best Time to Visit Gnomesville in the Ferguson Valley

Visiting Gnomesville is a unique experience, and choosing the right time of year to go can enhance your visit.

Summer Visits

Summer (December to February): These months see warm weather, ideal for enjoying outdoor attractions. However, it can get quite hot, with temperatures occasionally above 35°C.

We visited in early December, and it was quite hot, but luckily, many of the gnomes were perched under the shady trees.

Consider visiting either early morning or early evening and avoid the heat of the day. You want to have the time to look at all the little intricacies and not move on too quickly because you’re too hot.

Autumn Adventures

Autumn (March to May): This is a pleasant time in the Ferguson Valley, with moderate temperatures and decreasing rainfall. The region starts cooling down at this time of year, making it comfortable for exploring.

Winter Wonders

Winter (June to August): Winters are the wettest, which might restrict outdoor activities. But the lush, green surroundings post-rain can be quite beautiful. And the gnomes will have plenty of greenery growing around them, showing off their bright, gleaming colours.

I wouldn’t recommend visiting Gnomesville in the rain, though, as the paths will be muddy and slippery, and the whole experience won’t be much fun.

Spring Surprises

Spring (September to November): This is arguably the best time to visit. The weather is mild, and the rainfall is lower.

Spring also brings the blooming of wildflowers in the Southwest, adding to the charm of the region. Head to the 10-km Marri Trail at Crooked Brook Forest, and keep an eye out for Pink Myrtle, Blue Leschenaultia, and Yellow Candles.

Busy Times You Might Want to Avoid

Remember, if you’re visiting during school holidays or public holidays, the area might be more crowded, and accommodation should be booked in advance.

This is particularly so around Easter and Christmas when accommodation and camping spots “down south” can be booked out well in advance. This is the time of year when many Perth families head south to avoid the city’s heat and escape into our beautiful nature.

Check out the local weather in Ferguson Valley here.

📸 Don’t forget your camera – the photo opportunities are endless. Early morning or early evening will give you softer lighting. Our timing wasn’t the best as we visited around midday – the worst time to capture them.
For more tips on photography, check out our article, which gives you pointers about how to get the best photos while travelling.

Accommodation Options Near Gnomesville

For those wishing to extend their visit, there are numerous accommodation options in Ferguson Valley, ranging from cozy B&Bs to luxurious retreats.

Make your stay memorable by exploring the local vineyards and hiking trails and enjoying the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Staying in Ferguson Valley: Accommodations for Gnome Enthusiasts

Many types of accommodation are available in the Valley and nearby towns of Bunbury, Bridgetown, Donnybrook, Balingup and Nannup.

Nannup: Cabin on Farm– When we visited Gnomesville, we stayed in a cabin in Nannup at Jarrah Glen Cabins (ratings 9.4) on a farm stay, which was perfect for us, but you might like to stay nearer the Valley.

Bunbury: Camping – If you are camping or would like to stay in a caravan park cabin, check out Riverside Cabin Park. If you would prefer a holiday home, The White House (ratings 9.2) is a 3-bedroom holiday home in Bunbury. (Pets allowed)

Balingup: Cottage – Brookvale House (rating 9.1) is a 115-year-old cottage with one bedroom and great reviews

Donnybrook: Motel – Donnybrook Motel is great if you prefer hotel accommodation rated at 8.3.

Bridgetown: B&B – Ford B&B has fabulous reviews and a rating of 8.6

Exploring Beyond Gnomesville: Nearby Attractions

After soaking up the charm of Gnomesville, why stop there?

The Ferguson Valley is just the beginning of what Western Australia has to offer. The region offers wineries, hiking trails, and stunning natural scenery, making it a worthwhile destination on its own.

Nearby attractions include the King Jarrah Tree, estimated to be around 500 years old, and Wellington Dam, with the largest dam mural in the world.

Of course, Bunbury is only half an hour away and has its own attractions. If you are a lover of art, don’t miss the BRAG, Bunbury Regional Art Gallery. You shouldn’t be able to miss it because it’s in an old convent that is painted pink.

Bunbury also houses the biggest collection of rural street art in Australia – you can download a map of the street art on the Bunbury webpage here.

If you’re feeling the call of the open road, consider embarking on a more extensive journey, like the one we took from Perth to Melbourne.

It’s an adventure that showcases the diverse beauty of Australia’s landscapes, and the iconic drive across the famous Nullabor. Dive into our Perth to Melbourne road trip guide for inspiration and tips on creating your unforgettable cross-country adventure.

Visiting Gnomesville, WA … That’s a Wrap

Gnomesville is not just a collection of garden gnomes; it’s a symbol of community spirit, creativity, and the magic of imagination. It’s a place where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and every gnome tells a story.

“Out in the middle of GNOWERE lies a little village full of GNOMES… a collection of little people that has to be seen to be believed.”

– Gnomesville visitor

Gnomesville awaits you with its open arms and whimsical charm. Whether you’re a gnome enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, this magical village promises an experience like no other.

So pack your bags, bring your gnome, and prepare to be enchanted by the magical world of Gnomesville!

And remember, in Gnomesville, you’re never ‘gnome’ alone!

We’d love to see your pics or hear your impressions of Gnomesville, WA. Drop a comment below or send us a message here.

Inspired to hit the road after your Gnomesville visit? Our guide on how to plan a road trip will help you gear up for your next big adventure.

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