The Margaret River region is synonymous with fine wine. In the 50 years since plantings commenced it now accounts for 3 per cent of the nation’s wine crop but an astounding 20 per cent of Australia’s premium wines.
Wine arouses interest in the Margaret River but there is far more to this region that marks the juncture between the Indian and Southern Oceans. A beautiful, pristine coastline, great beaches, inviting communities and a relaxing ambience make the best recipe to visit Margaret River.
From Perth it’s a three-hour drive south to Busselton and the start of the Margaret River Region, which spans from Cape Naturaliste in the northwest to Cape Leeuwin in the south. The Caves Road traces the coastline between the capes from Dunsborough to Augusta while inland the Bussell Highway connects Augusta with the town of Margaret River, Cowaramup and north to Busselton.
Busselton’s postcard setting on Geographe Bay includes a long white sandy beach and calm clear seas framed by an endlessly long jetty. Take the 2km walk along the jetty or the miniature train and visit the underwater observatory. At Cape Naturaliste visit stunning Bunker Bay; spend the day at the beach and lunch at the Bunker Beach Café. The lighthouse offers is the starting point for the Cape to Cape Track – a 5-7 day coastal walk to Cape Leeuwin in the south.
For wine-lovers Margaret River encompasses 150 wineries mostly in the northern half. Cellar doors range from humble sheds with passionate owners to much larger and more lavish cellars. Grandest of all is Voyager Estate with formal gardens, rose arbours and whitewashed buildings. Food and wine go hand in hand in the Margaret River from fine restaurants at cellar doors to boutique food producers. Be sure to sample the delicious local crayfish – marrons or time your visit for the annual Gourmet Escape in November.
If you want a beach holiday then try Dunsborough or Yallingup in the north or for surfers the waves at Surfers Point at Prevelly are legendary. Margaret River also features magnificent limestone caves that visitors can explore on tours, towering karri forests and mainland Australia’s tallest lighthouse at Cape Leeuwin.
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