Margaret River: A Fun Guide to Western Australia's Wine and Food Haven

Located in the south-west corner of Western Australia, Margaret River is a picturesque region three hours south of Perth, known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and, of course, its delicious wines. The area has a rich history, with the first European settlers arriving in the 1830s. Today, the region is home to over 200 wineries and is considered one of the premier wine-producing areas in Australia. But there's more to Margaret River than just wine - let's explore some of the must-see and must-do experiences in this beautiful part of the world.

On your way down to Margaret River, be sure to make a stop in Busselton, home of the Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. The jetty is a popular spot for fishing, and the Underwater Observatory at the end of the jetty offers visitors a unique chance to see the marine life living in the waters below. busseltonjetty.com.au

So why is Margaret River such a great region for wine production? The area's Mediterranean-like climate, with its mild winters and warm summers, is ideal for growing a variety of grapes. The region also has well-draining, gravelly soils that are perfect for vineyards. With 150 wineries and counting, there's no shortage of places to sample the wines and learn about the winemaking process.

First stop on your Margaret River adventure: Fishbone Wines. This family-owned and operated winery is known for its handcrafted, small-batch wines, as well as its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff. Take a tour of the winery and vineyards, then settle in for a delicious tasting of their wines, accompanied by some local cheeses. The Japanese – Korean inspired share plate menu is a delicious choice for lunch.  fishbonewines.com.au

Next, treat your taste buds to something sweet at The Margaret River Chocolate Company. This chocolate factory offers tours where you can learn about the chocolate-making process and sample some of their delectable creations. Don't miss the truffles! margaretriverchocolate.com

For a more upscale dining experience, check out Aravena Estate. This award-winning restaurant is located on a working vineyard and offers a modern Australian menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Pair your meal with one of the estate's own wines for the ultimate culinary experience. Aravena Estate often holds music events on their expansive lawns around the lake and garden area.

Grace Farm Winery in Margaret River is a delightful place to discover and enjoy the beautiful views and delicious wine. Nestled among rolling hills and surrounded by lush vineyards, the winery offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely wine tasting or a romantic picnic. The team at Grace Farm is dedicated to producing premium wines using sustainable and traditional winemaking methods, and their passion and expertise is evident in every sip. Visitors can sample the wines in the cozy tasting room or take a stroll through the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. Whether you're a wine aficionado or just looking for a relaxing afternoon in the countryside, Grace Farm is the perfect spot to unwind and savor the flavors of Margaret River.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Margaret River, The Margaret River Motel is a great option. This family-owned motel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation, as well as a swimming pool and barbecue area for guests to use. margaretrivermotel.com.au

There are many accommodation options in the area to suit everyone’s budget.

But there's more to do in Margaret River than just sip wine. Some other top activities in the area include:

• Surfing or swimming at one of the region's many beautiful beaches

• Exploring the caves, such as Jewel Cave and Lake Cave

• Taking a scenic drive through the forests and countryside

• Going on a whale-watching tour (during migration season)

• Visit the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse

• Visit the many beautiful lookouts such as Boranup Karri Forest

So there you have it - a taste of what Margaret River has to offer. Whether you're a wine lover, a beachcomber, or a foodie, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of Western Australia.

If you would like to know more then check out our full Podcast episode by clicking here or on the player below.