South-west Australia may be remote, but among its rural charms are some of the world’s most popular wines. The Margaret River wine region is filled with family-friendly vineyards and plenty of other attractions steeped in natural beauty.
Varietals typical of the Margaret River wine region, which is home to nearly 200 wineries, are primarily French. Reds are often hearty Cabernet Sauvignons, while whites are typically crisp Sauvignon Blancs. From Busselton and Dunsborough to Cowaramup and Margaret River itself, there are plenty of charming towns where visitors can base themselves for an exploration of the local tasting cellars. For more active pursuits head to Yallingup for surf breaks, or hike the full 135 kilometres of the Cape to Cape Track.
The Margaret River area lies over 200 kilometres south of Perth, the capital of Western Australia, in less than a 3-hour drive away. There is also a small airport in Busselton. Some bus routes cover the region’s major roadways, but driving oneself is far more reliable.
Margaret River is a fairly modern addition to the world of viticulture. Its first plantings were in 1967, around the same time that California wine began making waves internationally. That original vineyard, Vasse Felix, is still producing today, albeit on a widely expanded property.