Things To Do
in Leonora
Leonora sits in Western Australia’s vast Goldfields, a former gold rush town turned desert outpost. It rests on red plains with the shimmer of nearby lakes and rugged escarpments as a constant backdrop. The community blends mining workers, locals, and travelers drawn to wide horizons and starry nights.
With a compact town center, heritage streets, and access to dramatic outback scenery, Leonora invites exploration at a relaxed, true-blue outback pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the remote township of Leonora, nestled in the heart of Western Australia. Get acquainted with the local landscape by exploring the rugged beauty that surrounds this gold mining town. Check into your accommodation and freshen up before heading out to enjoy the day.
After lunch, embark on a guided tour of the historic Gwalia Ghost Town, which showcases the rich mining heritage of the region. Roam through the remnants of the old miners' homes and the fascinating Museum that tells the story of the gold rush era. Take a moment to soak in the stunning views from the top of the hill overlooking the town.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Australian barbecue at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Spend the evening stargazing in the clear night sky, marveling at the brilliance of the Southern Hemisphere's constellations. Retire early to rest for the adventures that lie ahead.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out to the Leonora Heritage Walk. This self-guided tour will take you through significant historical sites that shaped the town's development, including old churches and mining equipment. Capture stunning photos and learn about the stories that lie behind each landmark.
After completing the walk, enjoy a picnic lunch at a nearby park filled with native flora. Spend the afternoon visiting the Leonora Cultural Centre to immerse yourself in the region's art and indigenous culture. Engage with local artists and take part in any workshops offered to gain insights into their crafts.
End your day with a visit to the local pub for a taste of regional ales and a relaxed atmosphere. Mingle with locals, exchanging stories and experiences from their lives in Leonora. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the quiet streets, appreciating the serenity of this unique desert town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room | $80-120 per night |
| 🎟️Local attraction entry | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Wide open landscapes and outback charm
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Remote location means limited services and long travel times
- Seasonal heat can be extreme and some attractions are seasonal
Places to Visit in Leonora
Visit one of these nice places.
Photogenic remnants of the gold rush era with weathered buildings, mines, and corrugated iron structures against red desert light.
Vast desert landscape with stark horizons and sculptures on the water's edge, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Historic facades along quiet streets, offering classic outback town photography opportunities.
Food in Leonora
Leonora Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional soda bread baked in an oven or campfire, best enjoyed warm with butter or golden syrup.
Must-Try!
A tangy relish made from native bush tomatoes, great with damper, cheese, or grilled meats.
Simple, hearty skewers seasoned with salt and pepper; a common roadhouse grill option.
Rustic meat pie served with chips or salad at local cafes—comfort food after a day outdoors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal weekend market offering fresh produce, bread, baked treats, and crafts.
Casual stop for pies, burgers, chips, and hot drinks along the highway.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Indigenous lands and sacred sites; ask before photographing people, particularly elders or community members.
Greet locals politely; conversation is often friendly and informal; avoid loud behavior in quiet, remote areas.
Safety
Tipping in Leonora
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; rounding up or 5–10% for very good service is appreciated in urban areas.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for roadhouses and markets, and some smaller venues may have limited card facilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; carry ample water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Warm days and cooler nights; comfortable for outdoor exploring and photography with golden light.
Milder daytime temperatures with chilly nights; pack a jacket; good for stargazing and clear skies.
Pleasant daytime warmth and occasional showers; wildflowers and spring wildlife can appear after rains.
Leonora at Night
Hiking in Leonora
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short loop exploring the Gwalia ghost town ruins and mining heritage.
Desert-edge walking with panoramic desert scenery and occasional sculptures.
Brief urban-to-desert lookout walk offering views over town and surrounding plains.
Airports
How to reach Leonora by plane.
Regional airport serving the area with domestic flights.
Larger regional airport with more flight options; a longer drive from Leonora.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A rotating community of workers associated with the local mines.
Cultural presence and heritage; respect for local land and sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular community sport; local clubs may host matches in season.
Common in warmer months; casual games and local leagues.
Courts available in town; join a friendly match.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Leonora.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafes offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie pies, or egg-based dishes; it's worth asking about daily specials.
Inform staff; many places can accommodate gluten-free bread, pies, and sides; confirm cross-contamination policies if needed.