Sitting between two coastal capes in Western Australia is the Margaret River Wine Region. With water on three sides and picturesque vineyards giving way to dense native forest, it is a place of great scenic beauty. Sightsee the area on coastal and inland hiking trails, go on wine-tasting tours and venture into caves.
Margaret River's first commercial vineyard was planted in 1967. Today, there are approximately 150 wine producers and nearly 5,500 hectares (13,591 acres) of vineyards. Among the most popular grape varieties here are chardonnay, semillon, merlot and shiraz.
Discover the region's wines by visiting some of its wineries and tasting their wares. If you don't want to drive, book a wine-tasting tour with a local company. There are lots of different itineraries, which can also include visits to microbreweries and breweries such as the Colonial Brewery.
As you make your way through the area, sample other types of local produce. Try some cheeses at the Margaret River Dairy, buy organic produce from farmers’ markets and sip cups of locally roasted brews at the Yahava Koffee Works.
Fabulous food and wines are not the only reasons to visit the Margaret River Wine Region. There are lots of natural and cultural attractions as well as a variety of outdoor pursuits. Hike the Cape to Cape Walk Track, an 140-kilometre (87-mile) long coastal trail between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin. Explore Margaret River Caves, kayak down the Margaret River, visit the historic lighthouse at Cape Leeuwin and relax on the beaches in Gracetown, Yallingup and Dunsborough.
If you are interested in the area’s heritage, spend some time at the Wardan Aboriginal Cultural Centre. There is a range of exhibits and cultural activities at this 16-hectare (40-acre) bushland site.
The main route into the Margaret River Wine Region is a 3-hour drive from Perth. Buses run between Perth and the area. If you plan to spend a few days exploring the region's wineries, oceans, forests and caves, stay in the town of Margaret River, situated on its namesake river.
