Published 22 November 2013, by Guest Bloggers Jacer Pointier-Broughton & Toby Broughton
Margaret River, we have absolutely fallen in love with this beautiful part of Western Australia. The combination of fresh air, stunning sceneries, mysterious forests, pristine beaches, fresh produce and local wine and beer will make it your perfect getaway. We guarantee if you visit, you too, will fall in love with everything Margaret River has to offer.
Location
Margaret River is located in the south west of WA, approximately a three hour drive from Perth city. If you choose to drive (as opposed to catching a bus), don’t just stick to the main highways, venture through the back roads to take in the scenery and the hidden delights of the vineyards, pastures and farms.
Places to Stay
You won’t be short of a place to stay in Margaret River. You can choose to stay in the town centre or you may wish to stay at a neighbouring hamlet such as Prevelly or Gracetown, just to name a few. Margaret River attracts more than 500 000 tourists annually so it would be wise to book your accommodation well ahead as these places book up quickly throughout the year.
Things to Do & Places to See
One week may not be enough time to see everything but it is enough time to fall in love with the place and make you want to visit again and again. Here are just a few ideas on things to do and places to see.
Wineries
You can choose to drive yourself to all the different wineries (with a designated driver of course) or you can jump online and pre-book to join in on a Margaret River Wine tour. There are many available on-line with different price options and running times.
There are more than 150 wineries to visit in the Margaret river region.
Vasse Felix, House of Cards, Windows, Gralyn Estate, Woodlands, and Pierro are just a few that we visited in one day. At most of these wineries you can join in on free wine tastings. If you are not a wine fan, many of these places sell quirky pieces of art, jewellery, handmade chocolate and condiments, the majority of these items are locally made.
Take this opportunity to also visit the smaller wineries where you will be able to speak to the wine makers and owners themselves.
Breweries
The Colonial (hand crafted ales), Cheeky monkey (provide craft beers and ciders) and Eagle Bay Brewery are just a few breweries in Margaret River. These breweries often have live entertainment, plenty of food and drink options to suit the family. Many of these breweries are family friendly with options to sit inside or outside. Some of the breweries have playgrounds and sandpits to keep the little ones occupied whilst you tuck into a long relaxing lunch.
Places of Interest
Gracetown Beach
You can’t go past Gracetown beach, roughly 15-20 minutes away from town. This idyllic beach is suitable for adults and families with an accessible swimming beach. There are also well known surfing spots such a north and south point.
Canebrake
A hidden gem called Canebrake pool is a great spot for camping. Here you can set up camp for a short period, enjoy walks through the forests, canoe in the afternoon or take a dip in the fresh canebrake pool. You can sit here in peace and hear the trees move in the wind and the birds singing, bliss!
Chocolate Factory
You can’t go without visiting Margaret river chocolate factory. Free samples of chocolate, need I say more! Here you can taste the beautiful handmade chocolates, dark, milk, white, fruit and nut, truffle, coffee infused- everybody will find something they love. You will be able to purchase their chocolates, sauces and hampers. There is a variety of price ranges to suit your budget, so you will be able to purchase some gifts for yourself and friends back home.
Miller’s Ice Cream
Miller’s is located in Cowaramup is a 10-15 minute drive from Margaret River town centre.
One word to describe their fresh ice cream- YUM!
This family owned business is on the owner’s farm and you can often see the cows in the neighbouring paddocks. This ice-cream is so popular that they make fresh tubs daily. There is a cafe for the parents if you need a little rest and a playground to keep the kids entertained.
Our tips when visiting Margaret River
We could honestly go on and on with places to go see and things you must experience but we would be forever writing, so, here are our top tips when visiting Margaret River.
1. Clothing- For the summer and spring seasons, pack a light sweater as the early mornings and evenings can be cool. The sun can be very strong during these seasons, so don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreen and hat.
Wet gear is a good idea if you plan to trek through the forests in the winter season.
Lots of warm clothing is needed for the winter, a beanie and warm jacket on top of your winter attire will suffice.
Pack you walking shoes- you will find the most beautiful places by exploring on foot, so pack some comfortable shoes.
2. Take your time- You must take your time to soak everything in; there is no need to rush whist in Margaret River. It is very easy to lose track of time whilst there, so take this opportunity to explore at your own pace.
3. Swim- You must swim at the beach or a natural pool, the water is so fresh you won’t want to get out!
4. Camera- Don’t forget your camera; you will be able to take some great scenic shots.
5. Shop- You must visit some of the boutiques and speciality stores in the town centre. You will find some Australian fashion labels, quirky gifts, handmade jewellery, home wares and much more!
6. Eat and drink- You will be able to have a nice casual breakfast or lunch in the town centre but you must visit at least, one-two wineries as well as breweries.
Try the local produce and local wine, beers and ciders; they are truly like nothing else in the world
We hope you enjoy this unforgettable part of Western Australia as much as we did.
Jacer & Toby
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