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!!
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.
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.
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.
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!
Continue Reading:
- 7 Fun Things to Do in Ferguson Valley
- Best of South West WA: One Week Road Trip Itinerary
- Ultimate Perth Itinerary: Fun 3, 5 and 7 Day Itineraries
- Rottnest Island Day Trip: Perfect One Day Itinerary
- 25 Top Things To Do on Rottnest Island
- Autumn in Perth: Local’s Guide to the Must-See Spots
- Western Australia Wildflowers Guide: When + Where to See Them
- Best Places to Stay in Perth – Picked by a Local
Such an interesting place, I’ve never seen anything like it! If I ever make my way to Australia, I’ll have to stop by!
Who knew this existed!? This looks like such a cute place to visit! Quite the hidden gem.
Wow, I had no clue this place existed! It reminds me of the movie, Gnomeo & Juliet, haha. Thanks for sharing!!
What an adorable place! I love these kinds of places where common folk contribute to building something fun and whimsical. The history is quite interesting.
This is so fun!! I have NO idea this place existed. I am adding it to my list! I love this! Thank you for sharing! 🙂
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!
I’ve never heard of this before but it looks so fun! I love finding unique places to visit, so this is going on my list for sure.
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.
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!