Australia is home to some of the most awe-inspiring places on the planet - visions of beaches, the Sydney Opera House, and Uluru probably come to mind. But there exists a hidden gem, nestled away in the most spectacular location - where nature, wine, food, and beaches all combine in one beautiful destination.
In Western Australia, in the southwest region which borders the Indian Ocean is a place called Margaret River. It's a region that spans from Busselton in the North all the way down south to Augusta and is considered as one of Australia's premier wine regions – famous for its world-class wineries, delectable local food, and immaculate surf breaks – all with stunning beaches, lush green peaks and rugged coastline. This region offers a varied expanse of adventure on land, sea, and sky and has enough activities to keep you busy for a lifetime.
With Western Australia opening its doors to tourists after years of isolation, here are five reasons to visit this glorious place.
The Beaches
If you are looking to surf, or maybe just have a swim and relax, you’ll find more than your fair share of beach options in this laid-back town. With over 70 world-class surf breaks spread across its stunning coastline, Margaret River has turned into one of the most sought-after surfing meccas for water sports lovers all over the world. Watch pros catch waves from the town’s annual World Surf League this April 24 to May 4, 2022, or take beginner lessons with Yallingup Surf School to experience the thrill yourself. If you want to avoid the crowd, take a dip into smaller and quieter beaches like Point Piquet, Castle Rock, and Injidup Beach.
The Local Food
Margaret River is home to handcrafted cheese, beautiful olives, and the tastiest bacon you’ll ever eat. With the abundance of farmland and fertile soil, the local produce brings forth a colourful palate of gourmet food from local markets to restaurants. Enjoy lunch and dinner over the most spectacular vineyards and breweries while sipping on some of the finest wines and beers crafted in the region. Visit The Farm House for genuine West Australian meat, charcuterie, and sausages. Stop over at the Margaret River Dairy Company for handcrafted gourmet cheese and yogurt. Take home some of the most luscious olive oils from Vasse Virgin Olive Oil farm to share with friends and family back home. And don’t miss out on fresh seafood from local restaurants and bistros like Blue Manna Bistro and Hooked Up Fish and Chips. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the new McHenry Hohnen tasting room at 10406 Bussell Hwy, Witchcliffe WA 6286.
The Wildlife
An animal lover’s paradise - from whale watching to sunset kangaroo parades, Margaret River is rich with wildlife experiences. Catch dolphins at Meelup while taking a drive from Caves Road through Boranup forest. Hop aboard a whale watching tour from September to December and watch Humpback, Southern Right and Blue Whales migrate from Dunsborough and Busselton. Join guided tours with knowledgeable locals and discover blue wrens, black cockatoos, and colourful wildflowers.
The Culture
Learn about the beautiful history of the Wadandi (Saltwater) people and their deep understanding and connection of the land and the environment. For over 50,000 years, the Wadandi has adapted and survived in Boodja since the last ice age. Listen to traditional songs and stories, experience Djiljit fishing, relish native dishes, learn about bush medicine and the fascinating dreaming spirits with guided cultural tours from locals like Koomal Dreaming. Visit the depths of Ngilgi Cave for a unique didgeridoo performance and leave with a deeper appreciation of nature and aboriginal culture.
The Wine
Meandering along remote rivers, lush forests, and rolling hills, Margaret River produces excellent wines from a variety of on and off-site vineyards.
The pleasant climate and soil conditions, including the clay and limestone-based soils of the region, allow for a variety of grapes to be grown. Cool climate wines such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to warm-climate Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon are planted aplenty along this bountiful GI.
With over 200 wineries growing a vast array of different styles and varieties, there are endless wines to taste and numerous beautiful vineyards to explore.
Among them, McHenry Hohnen stands out for producing award-winning wines from 100% biodynamic methods. Murray Henry started this winery in 2004 and has since secured its position as the premier winemaker of the region producing single varietals like Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon as well as blends such as Grenache Syrah Mataro and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc.
Also visit Myattsfield’s tasting room at Union Rd, Carmel WA 6076. Myattsfield crafts one of the finest Shiraz, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon that all wine enthusiasts and casual tourists are sure to enjoy.
If you haven't had the opportunity to travel across the world and see how these amazing vinos are made, explore the best Western Australia has to offer and have them delivered straight to your home. See the full wine list here.
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