When travelling south from Perth, first you’ll reach Bunbury, “capital” of the south-west, and then the Margaret River region in an area between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin. This about a 3 hour relaxed drive on excellent roads.
Land here is honeycombed with limestone caves, some of which are open to the public. South of Dunsborough, Yallingup Caves are a fantastic underground world of elaborately carved limestone. Margaret River lies at the heart of the state’s top wine growing and gourmet dining region.
Specialities include brie, fresh berries and marron (freshwater shellfish). Accommodation ranges from boutique guesthouses like Hidden Valley Forest Retreat, to five-star hotels or camp sites under a million stars. Enchanting places to stay include Windmills Break or Cape Lodge, built in South African Cape style. Relaxing yet elegant, this is the perfect location from which to tour such noted vineyards as Cape Clairault, Leeuwin Estate, Cape Mentelle, Sandalford and Vasse Felix.
The Margaret River Region in Western Australia has been lauded as Australia’s top food and wine destination, taking out the ‘Outstanding Region in Australia’ category in the 2015 delicious. Produce Awards.
Although known predominantly for its world-class wine, the Margaret River Region is fast growing a reputation as one of Australia’s hottest foodie destinations, with a focus on fresh, local produce and a down to earth, ‘farm-to-fork’ mentality which is widely embraced by local chefs and producers.
