Discover the Hidden Heritage of the Ludlow Tuart Forest

Just a short scenic drive inland from Abbey Beach Resort lies one of Western Australia’s most underrated treasures—the Ludlow Tuart Forest. This living landscape is home to the last remaining tall tuart forest on Earth and holds a fascinating blend of environmental significance, colonial history, and community-led conservation. For guests looking to add a unique cultural adventure to their South West Accommodation stay, a trip to Visit Ludlow Settlement offers the perfect day trip that combines nature, history, and regional charm.

A Natural Wonder: The Tall Tuarts of Ludlow

The Ludlow Tuart Forest, nestled between Busselton and Capel, is a rare ecological gem. These towering tuart trees—some over 300 years old—once formed extensive woodlands across the South West but are now critically endangered. Walking beneath their silvery bark and leafy canopies is like stepping back in time to a quieter, older Western Australia.

The forest supports a diverse ecosystem including owls, bandicoots, possums, and native orchids. Visitors can follow walking trails and picnic in shaded clearings, making it ideal for families, photographers, birdwatchers, or anyone needing a peaceful escape from the coastal buzz.

Guardians of the Forest: Ludlow Tuart Forest Restoration Group

The protection and revival of this extraordinary environment wouldn’t be possible without the tireless work of the Ludlow Tuart Forest Restoration Group—a volunteer-led organisation that’s become the heart and soul of conservation in the region.

Since forming in 2016, this passionate group has spearheaded initiatives to restore degraded sections of the forest, replant native flora, protect endangered habitats, and educate the public. But their vision goes beyond just trees.

They are also preserving the legacy of the historic Ludlow Settlement, which once housed forestry workers and their families during the 20th century. This ambitious project includes restoring original buildings, interpreting local stories, and advocating for heritage recognition. Through public tours, open days, and educational programs, the group is turning Ludlow into a living museum of environmental and social history.

By visiting, you’re directly supporting a grassroots movement that’s not just keeping history alive—but regenerating it.

Visit Ludlow Settlement: A Step Back into Regional History

For travellers looking to experience something truly authentic, Visit Ludlow Settlement is a must. Tucked within the forest, this former timber town tells the story of an era when forestry was the backbone of the South West’s economy. The quiet charm of the old cottages, schoolhouse, and sawmill remnants feels like stepping into a preserved past.

While many of the buildings are still under restoration, visitors are encouraged to explore the site and learn about life in Ludlow during the 1920s–50s. The Restoration Group offers guided tours and public open days, which bring the town to life with storytelling, historical displays, and community hospitality.

For self-guided visits, interpretive signage explains the significance of key buildings, the role of forestry in WA’s development, and how the settlement supported the tuart timber industry.

It’s an especially engaging destination for families with kids, history enthusiasts, and visitors seeking meaningful travel experiences. Best of all, the drive out to Ludlow is an attraction in itself—passing tuart-lined roads, kangaroo-dotted clearings, and tranquil pockets of untouched bushland.

A Day Trip Itinerary from Abbey Beach Resort

The Ludlow Tuart Forest is just a 30-minute drive north of Abbey Beach Resort, making it an ideal half-day or full-day outing. Here’s a suggested itinerary to get the most out of your visit:

• 9:00am – Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Abbey Beach Resort.
• 10:30am – Arrive at Ludlow Tuart Forest. Begin with a gentle walk beneath the towering tuarts and explore one of the short walking trails.
• 12:00pm – Head over to Visit Ludlow Settlement. Wander the restored cottages and read up on the fascinating history, or check in advance for public tour times.
• 1:00pm – Enjoy a packed picnic under the trees or drive to nearby Capel for a local café lunch.
• 4:00pm – Return to Abbey Beach Resort for a sunset swim, spa soak, or relaxed beachfront stroll.

Why Ludlow Should Be on Every Guest’s Radar

Most visitors to the South West are familiar with the wineries, beaches, and coastal icons—but Ludlow offers something deeper. It invites reflection on the region’s Indigenous roots, environmental fragility, and the determination of everyday people to protect what matters.

Supporting the Ludlow Tuart Forest Restoration Group means being part of a story that’s still unfolding—a story of care, connection, and community-driven tourism. As more people discover Ludlow, the dream is for the forest and the settlement to thrive together again, offering future generations the same sense of wonder it offers today.

So on your next visit to Abbey Beach Resort, take a detour into the forest. You won’t just leave with beautiful photos—you’ll leave with a sense of purpose, knowing you’ve helped support one of WA’s most inspiring restoration stories.