Everyone knows that the Margaret River in Western Australia produces excellent wines, but not everyone is interested in wine (yes it’s true… or so I’ve heard!). I’m here today to tell you all about the other marvellous Margaret River attractions, and there are plenty of them, thus the title of this post ‘The Marvellous Margaret River’!
Margaret River Wine
As I mentioned before the Margaret River produces a damn fine drop of wine, and for those of us who like a glass or two, this is reason enough to visit the region.
Blessed with ideal wine growing conditions and stunning natural surrounds, Margaret River has become a player on the world stage of wine making, producing 20 percent of Australia’s premium wines with only three percent of the country’s grapes.
Compared to many international wine regions, the Margaret River wine region is relatively young and the local wine makers have embraced innovative techniques and a progressive attitude to the business of wine making. There are well over 100 wine makers in the area, so it is easy to spend your days hopping from cellar door to cellar door.
Margaret River Food
Wine and food are a marriage made in heaven, and so with the success and growth of the wine making industry has come a plethora of gastronomical delights and locally grown fresh produce. The restaurants and cafes in the region boast some of the best chefs and cooks in the country serving delicious culinary offerings created from the stunning produce the region has to offer.
Olive growers, cheese makers and chocolate makers are abundant with many of them offering free tastings and ‘cellar door’ style experiences. If you like preparing your own food, a gourmet hamper from A La Carte Hampers Margaret River filled with exquisite local produce and ingredients is the way to go.
For true gourmands, the Margaret River Gourmet Escape in November is four days of heaven. A cast of international and local chefs and wine growers host a four day food and wine festival which includes entertainment, stellar food and wine and pop up bars and restaurants.
Margaret River Beaches
The stretch of coastline bordering the Margaret River region boasts some of the most pristine beaches in Australia and over 75 excellent surf breaks, known amongst surfers from around the world. Whether you like to lie on the beach and soak up some sun, or like getting active in the water, the beaches in this area are uncrowded with crystal clear water and the ideal place to take some time out.
From September to December, the Margaret River beaches provide great views of the migrating Southern Right and Humpback whales who often put on a show by breaching or lifting their magnificent tails or fins out of the water. Local tourist companies also run whale watching cruises for a more up close and personal experience.
Margaret River Shopping
If, like me, you enjoy picking up that special find in a little boutique, or buying some locally made art or jewellery that you’re unlikely to see anywhere else, the Margaret River is perfect for you. Souvenir shops, boutiques, book shops, gourmet delicatessens, vintage shops and jewellery stores all vie for your dollar, and around nearly every corner is a gallery. Shopaholics will have no trouble parting with their money and if browsing is more your style, the unique and eclectic wares will keep you busy for as long as you like.
Caving in the Margaret River
Adventure seekers and nature lovers aren’t forgotten, with over 150 caves lying beneath the region. Caving has become one of the most popular Margaret River attractions and the three spectacular show caves, Lake, Mammoth and Jewel are easily accessible and open daily year round (excluding Christmas Day). Visitors can take either a self guided tour or a guided tour which run throughout the day. The Moondyne Cave offers a more intimate caving experience and involves helmets, head lights and crawling on your hands and knees… definitely not for the claustrophobic!
Accommodation in Margaret River
These are just some of the Margaret River attractions on offer, the full list of things to do would take me a month to list. Needless to say, there is something for everyone from foodies, to beach lovers, families and singles. Nature lovers will love the area’s natural beauty, food and wine lovers are exceptionally well catered for and those who enjoy some rest and relaxation will love the beautiful Margaret River accommodation.
Choice Hotels Quality Inn Margaret River is set in gorgeous gardens and natural bushland and is the ideal base to explore all Margaret River attractions. The luxurious hotel caters for singles, couples and families in a range of rooms including deluxe spa rooms and family suites, and, as always with Choice Hotels, at a value for money price.
