Margaret River
Superb chardonnay & cabernet sauvignon
A three-hour drive south of Perth lies the famous Margaret River region, revered for its chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon, exceptional local produce and eateries, flawless beaches and soaring karri forests.
The region’s most notable wineries are found around Cowaramup and Wilyabrup, among them biodynamic Cullen Wines, organic Stormflower Vineyard and prolific Cape Mentelle. The latter hosts outdoor movies in the summer.
The town of Margaret River makes for a handy base and its Saturday morning Farmers’ Market offers a crash course in the region’s bounty, from olives and artisan cheeses to abalone.
Of the area’s renowned underground caves, Mammoth Cave is the most accessible, littered with the megafauna fossils and leading to a marri forest flush with colourful native birds.
Margaret River lies some 270km south of Perth.
Car: From Perth, head south on Forrest Hwy (SR2/National Route 1). At Bunbury, continue along the coast on Bussell Hwy (SR10).
Bus: Transwa route SW1 runs between Perth and Augusta, stopping in Yallingup and Margaret River en route.