Famed for its sweeping vineyards and world-class surf, Margaret River embodies Australia’s laid-back coastal lifestyle. It has established a reputation for its gastronomic scene, with craft breweries, chocolatiers, cheese makers and farmer’s markets in abundance, as well as boasting a natural beauty that can be embraced on its extensive walking trails.

Things to do

Margaret River produces some of Australia’s best wines, thanks to the Mediterranean climate. Indulge in a tasting at Vasse Felix, one of the first wineries to be established in the area.You can have a long lunch at Leeuwin Estate or enjoy a game of petanque while sipping on Sauvignon Blanc at Cape Mentelle Vineyards.

While the town of Margaret River is not on the coast, it’s within a short drive of the beaches at Gracetown, Dunsborough and Yallingup, with surf breaks that cater to all experience levels.

Whales can be spotted migrating along the coast between June and November and are best viewed along a section of the Cape to Cape Track. It stretches 135 kilometres along the edge of Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge’s dramatic sea cliffs between the lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

Interested in learning about the indigenous culture? Then head to the Wardan Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn how to throw a boomerang, create your own tools and hear about the Dreamtime stories from the Wardandi elders. Then get lost in the wooden alleyways of Yallingup Maze or the hedgerows of A Maze’n Margaret River.

Getting around

Margaret River is situated around three hours’drive from Perth and is connected by one daily bus service. To really enjoy everything the region has to offer, a private vehicle or day tour is best.