Laverton is one of the luckiest gold rush towns in the Goldfields. Its late 19th century architecture was spared from ruin when fortune stuck twice and nickel became the town's new gold. Today, you'll find Laverton's greatest riches lie in its well-preserved history and captivating heritage trails.

This golden oldie is a one and a half hour drive east of Leonora. You can reach it in just under five hours from Kalgoorlie, or 12 hours from Perth. Alternatively, you can make it a journey of discovery by following the Golden Quest Discovery Trail, stopping at 25 interpretive sites as you travel through Kalgoorlie, Boulder and Coolgardie.

Nickel is no longer mined here, but you're invited to dig deep into Laverton's past with a visit to the original police station, sergeant's house and jail. Here, you'll find yourself in a world far removed from the one we know today - where convicts endured cramped conditions and extreme desert temperatures.

Be sure to drop by The Great Beyond Explorers' Hall of Fame - a multi-million dollar visual exhibit that brings to life the characters and stories of the region's early European history in the most engaging way. Venture two and a half hours to the east and you'll see more relics of the gold rush era in the eerie ghost town of Gwalia.

For experienced four wheel drivers, Laverton marks the start of some of Australia's most challenging long-distance trails. From here, the Outback Way extends 2,750 kilometres across central Australia to Winton in Queensland, while the Anne Beadell Highway takes you on a five day drive to Coober Pedy in South Australia.

Extensive work on The Outback Way now means two wheel drive vehicles can access the route to Uluru, but a four wheel drive is recommended.

Permits are required for these remote roads, so make The Great Beyond Visitor Centre your first stop to grab your permit and some valuable travel advice.

Refresh your driving eyes and immerse yourself in outback life with a night or two at Laverton's hotel, motel or caravan park.