Visiting the Quirky Gnomesville in Ferguson Valley

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Tucked away on an otherwise seemingly normal roundabout lies Gnomesville, one of Western Australia’s quirkiest attractions. This gnome-filled wonderland contains thousands of pint-sized creatures, each with a unique personality an interesting story to tell.

Here’s all you need to know about visiting the curious and quirky Gnomesville in the picturesque Ferguson Valley.

The Origins of Gnomesville

Driving about the Ferguson Valley, you come to a roundabout where you see the first signs of Gnomesville.

Turning around the corner there will be an explosion of gnomes! I had never seen anything like it. This small area seems like every inch is covered in gnomes!

Small gnomes, big gnomes, xmas gnomes, gnome families – and even cheeky naked gnomes!!

Cheeky Gnome lying on log

My other favourite thing about Gnomesville are the signs accompanying some of the gnomes. There are gnome puns galore, notes and stories from overseas visitors – some whom have brought gnomes halfway across the world!

But how did this gnome wonderland appear?

Legend has it that the first gnome appeared mysteriously in a tree hollow, one day in the 1990’s. Another local saw it, and thought the new gnome home needed a name and put up the very first sign “Dun Gnoming” on the hollow. Hence, Gnomesville was born.

Over time, others followed suit and these days, there are an estimated 10,000 gnomes in residence.

After several years, the Shire of Dardnup recognised the importance (and growing visitors to the site) and installed the carpark and now maintain the site.

They have survived years of weather, including a flood in 2018 which, unfortunately, washed away many a gnome.

So many gnomes in Gnomesville

Essential Visitor Tips

Gnomesville is nestled amid the rolling hills of the scenic Ferguson Valley. You’ll find the gnome-home about 20 minutes east from Bunbury, about a 2 hour drive south of Perth.

These days, Gnomesville has become a bustling tourist attraction. When visiting on weekends and during school holidays, expect it to be busy.

Gnomesville is free to visit, and is worth a visit at any time of the year. We spent about 20 minutes wandering around and exploring the site, but you could spend longer there if you wanted.

Gnomesville signs

Gnome Etiquette

Feel free to bring your own gnome, or purchase one from the nearby Ferguson Valley Visitor Centre. Find a suitable spot, write your name on your gnome with a permanent marker and leave it to settle in to its new home and neighbourhood.

Just a reminder, that this incredible free attraction is an important part of the local community.

Be careful to treat it and the local community with respect, by leaving no trace when you visit, parking in marked areas and taking care where you tread.

Welcome to Gnomesville sign

Other Things to Do Nearby

While Gnomesville might just be a stop on the way to the Margaret River Region, it’s a worthwhile destination in its own right and worthy of a day trip from Perth.

For more ideas on how to spend a day in the Ferguson Valley, read my dedicated guide here.

Here’s a short summary of other things to do in the area:

  • Stop in for a wine tasting at the Fergsuson Valley wineries (my favourites include St Aidan Wines and Green Door Wines)
  • Explore the stunning Wellington National Park, including a visit to the Wellington Dam Mural and refreshing Honeymoon Pools
  • Check out the azure blues of nearby Black Diamond Lake
  • Drink craft beer at the Wild Bull Brewery
  • Explore the coastal city of Bunbury, where you can visit the Dolphin Discovery Centre or even swim with dolphins

Whatever you choose to do, your time visiting the quirky and cherry Gnomesville is bound to be a memorable one. Happy adventuring!

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9 thoughts on “Visiting the Quirky Gnomesville in Ferguson Valley”

  1. I loved reading this and it certainly made me laugh a little. I live for the strange places to visit like Gnomesville. I can’t believe there are 10,000 – that is insane! Haha, I would love to get a glimpse of some of the cheeky ones!

    Reply
  2. This is such a cute looking place, so unique. And so many gnomes! I love these fun ideas along walks and places to visit outside but somethings else like this to see.

    Reply
  3. Lol this is hilarious! I love wacky places like this! 🙂
    If you ever visit Vancouver there is a forest full of teapots, and another where you can hunt for trolls and a dragon. I have a feeling after this, you might like both!

    Reply

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