Uncorking Margaret River: A Journey Through Wine, Wilderness and Waterways.
Text by Amy Van
Images by Tourism Western Australia
In Western Australia’s South West, Margaret River has long been synonymous with premium wines. Shaping the backbone of the region’s wine scene are small family-owned estates alongside well-established names such as Vasse Felix (the oldest winery founded in 1967 by Dr Tom Cullity), Leeuwin Estate, Moss Wood and Voyager Estate.
The latter is where sustainability and gastronomy go hand in hand. Voyager invites guests to explore its organic farming and winemaking practices on a guided tour through the tranquil vineyards. This is followed by a tasting and seasonal lunch at the elegant restaurant, each course thoughtfully matched with Voyager’s Chardonnay, Cabernet, Semillon and other varietals.
Beyond the region’s cellar doors lies a landscape of rivers, forests, and rugged coastline that reveals a quieter, even more contemplative side of Margaret River. For travellers seeking a blend of nature, culture and fine food, the region offers more than just the contents of a glass.
One of the most engaging ways to discover this destination is with Margaret River Discovery Tours, led by founder Sean Blocksidge. A former wine industry professional, Sean takes a small group approach, steering clear of crowded tourist routes and introducing guests to the soul of the region. His company holds special national park permits and has restricted access arrangements to certain off-road areas.
Sean is a wealth of information if you want to learn about the different wineries based here. “This is the most consistent wine producing region in the country, if not globally,” he shares. “‘More Bordeaux than Bordeaux,’ as they like to say.”
Here, the Indian Ocean meets the roaring Southern Ocean at Cape Leeuwin. The warm Leeuwin Current which passes through helps to moderate the climate, creating ideal maritime conditions for viticulture.
“It is never too hot and never too cold,” adds Sean. Summer rarely tops 30 deg C, and winter never drops zero. “So no heat waves, no frosts, no floods,” he elaborates. In short, if you spot a Margaret River label, it’s almost always worth buying.
The day begins with a serene canoe ride along Margaret River (yes, it exists). The waters are calm, the atmosphere hushed, and the sense of disconnection from the outside world is strangely gratifying. In the eucalyptus canopy above, you might glimpse rare cockatoos or other wild animals. Sean points out freshwater mussels clinging to rocks on the riverbank (not for eating, as he is quick to clarify). A keen photographer, he will cue guests when to ready their cameras or phones for the best shots.
Next comes a pitstop at a nearby waterfall where freshwater marrons inhabit the cool streams. Along the way, Sean shares stories of the land’s Aboriginal heritage and ecological significance. A quick lunch and wine pairing follows at Wilyabrup Valley’s Fraser Gallop Estate, an emerging winery producing single vineyard and Bordeaux-inspired wines. Winery tours close for winter season and will opens in October.
The tour rounds off with a drive through the bush in Sean’s 4WD and a guided walk along the Cape to Cape Track. There, panoramic views of the Indian Ocean stretch endlessly. This is the Wilyabrup Cliffs section, part of the well-known 135km trail that spans between the lighthouses at Cape Naturaliste in the north and Cape Leeuwin in the south near Augusta. Depending on the season, wildflowers brighten the path, and majestic whales or dolphins may appear offshore.
Accommodation in Margaret River leans boutique, ranging from beachfront resorts to architect-designed retreats. Smiths Beach Resort, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels collection, combines contemporary luxury with a stunning Yallingup location overlooking the Indian Ocean. The resort is ideal for travellers wanting direct access to the Cape to Cape Track and the pristine beach at their doorstep. It is also within minutes of wineries, restaurants and activities.
At the casual chic Lamont’s Restaurant, tuck into hearty dishes like confit duck leg and goat’s cheese gnocchi with mushrooms. Or pick up a bottle of wine and gourmet snacks from the adjacent deli. Come evening, grab fish and chips to enjoy by the shore as the sun sets, and the sky blushes pink and gold. When the air turns crisp, retreat indoors to your spacious self-contained villa.
Depending on group size, the accommodation options range from one-bedroom apartments and multi-room villas to four-bedroom beach houses, with open plan living. There are full kitchens, laundry facilities and parking to boot. The main swimming pool and outdoor relaxation area were recently renovated, adding another touch of resort polish.
Wake to the sounds of the waves and fresh air. If you’re an early bird, you’ll be able to catch the most magical sunrise. On the way to breakfast at Lamont’s, you may even see a couple of kangaroos hopping past.
From cellar doors to surf breaks, this lush corner of Western Australia serves up an intoxicating mix of fine wines, fresh air and freedom. Sip Chardonnay by the vines, paddle down tranquil rivers and fall asleep to the sound of waves, Margaret River is the kind of getaway that lingers long after the last glass.
Note: The closest major airport is Perth International Airport, about three hours’ drive from the Margaret River region. QantasLink commenced direct flights from Perth to Busselton Margaret River Airport in June 2025.