HSBC SVNS 2024: Beyond Rugbydome

Fans from around the world will be flocking in their thousands to Perth for the third weekend of HSBC SVNS 2024, which runs from January 26 to January 28.

There’ll be plenty of rugby action on the pitch to soak up, and so much to see and do in and around this vibrant Western Australia city. 

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Whether you’re a culture vulture, a nature lover or a fan of great food and wine, Perth has something for everyone to enjoy during the HSBC SVNS weekend. 

Caffeine and culture vultures 

Perth is packed with historic buildings, many of which have fascinating stories behind them, from the 140-year-old State Buildings in the city to the World Heritage listed Fremantle Prison; or Fremantle’s Round House – the oldest remaining intact building in Western Australia.

Admire the city architecture, street art on a two-hour Coffee Culture and Art tour which kicks off at 10am at Perth Town Hall. 

While you sip on a complimentary coffee or tea from one of the city’s trendiest cafes, you will be led past street art, sculptures and architecture, while listening to a few quirky and engaging stories about its history. 

If you’re a total newcomer to the city of Perth, it’s a lovely introduction. 

Marine life and mermaids 

Perth provides plenty of opportunities for nature lovers to indulge their passion - from the world’s largest inner city park - Kings Park and Botanic Garden; to the island paradise of Rottnest Island. 

Be prepared for a jaw-dropping visit to the Aquarium of Western Australia – known to its mates as AQWA. 

Apart from the 45 unique exhibits showcasing marine life native to Western Australia, and the Shipwreck Coast tunnel (housed in the country’s largest single aquarium), there are some fantastic extras. 

They include the Mermaids Ahoy! events, which will have you embracing your inner Ariel, and a behind-the-scenes tour that includes a Glass bottom boat trip, taking you over the Shipwreck Coast shark aquarium. 

Getting wild in the water

If you can tear yourself away from the sun-kissed beach and want to get even closer to some of Perth’s amazing aquatic wildlife then a Swim with Wild Dolphins is a must. 

Cruise the waters of Rockingham’s sheltered bays and islands, while you clamber into a wetsuit and snorkel. The guides are on hand to help if you need it, and best of all, you don’t need any previous snorkelling experience. 

When the boat reaches the right place, into the water you go, where you can spend up to six hours getting close with a group of wild – but totally charming – dolphins. 

Feasting in style

No trip to Perth would be complete without the chance to sample some of its superb food and drink. 

There are restaurants to tempt every tastebud across the city, but why not make a real occasion of it with the Ultimate Swan Valley Food and Wine day trip in Western Australia’s oldest wine region?

You are driven through this lush region, which lies just north of Perth, in air-conditioned style, while you move from winery to winery – tasting as you go.   

Alongside sipping some of the region’s best varietals, you can also wrap your tastebuds around some local beers, as well as chocolates, liqueurs and cheeses. 

Make sure you save plenty of room for the gourmet winery lunch! 

A cosmic experience 

The fun doesn’t have to end when the final whistle blows on the last HSBC SVNS match. If you’re a lover of heavenly bodies as well as rugby ones, then Stargazing at the Pinnacles is for you. 

Located in the Nambung National Park just north of Perth, the Pinnacles Desert is one of Western Australia’s most awe-inspiring places. 

This tour includes sandboarding down the Lancelin Sand Dunes and a walk on the beach at Hangover Bay as the sun goes down. 

After a delicious dinner in the desert, a breathtaking stargazing experience unfolds, accompanied by Dreamtime stories of the night sky. Utterly magical. 

Whatever you get up to in Perth, and whichever team you’re supporting, you’re going to have an amazing time. 

With so much going on in and around Perth, why not make a stay of it and sample some of the best that Western Australia has to offer? Discover more here.