From laid-back city vibes to magnificent beaches, lush vineyards and gastronomic experiences, we are all over Margaret River, Western Australia. Whether you’re travelling from Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Sydney as a family or a couple, it’s the perfect destination for a short 5- day hop. Here’s our ideal summer itinerary.
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Day One
Pre-book a limousine to take you from Perth International Airport straight to Margaret River, where Cape Lodge is the place to stay. This 22-room luxury lodge is also a must stop for foodies, where Chef Michael Elfwing’s modern menu highlights regional produce. Freshen up, then head to dinner dressed in your most chic country gear and feast on local marron, truffles, cheese and chocolates (depending on seasons!). Turn in for the night after one (or more) glasses of Margaret River’s best wines.
Day Two
Go from vineyard to beach in under 10 minutes – this one of the TOP reasons we love it here so much. Start the day at Smiths Beach with an aromatic flat white, then brave the clear aquamarine waters for a refreshing dip; try your hand at surfing or paddle-boarding!
With the day’s exercise out of the way, set your sights on lunch at Cullen Wines, not only are the wines biodynamic and an absolute pleasure on the palate, the vineyard restaurant is a must-try too. Call in advance to snag a table on the grass.
In the evening, stroll in the quaint Margaret River town then stop for dinner at the very down-to-earth Settler’s Tavern.
Day Three
Day Trip! Grab a gourmet packed breakfast and drive through Boranup and Karridale, marvelling at the majestic Karri trees that line the way. If you fancy some underground action, the Mammoth Cave is a must see, the cave is said to have been formed 1 million years ago, and boasts intricate limestone decorations and fossils of long-extinct giant beasts. Finally, stop at Hamelin Bay, where scores of friendly eagle rays swim up to the shore to say hi, pet them if you dare!
Come sundown, make your way to the acclaimed Cape Mentelle Winery for the unforgettable outdoor cinema experience, which only runs during the summer season. Stars overhead, wood-fired oven pizza and sauvignon blanc in hand, could the day end more perfectly?
Day Four
On Saturday mornings, the Farmer’s Market has the town abuzz. Save your stomach space for that wander around the stores, where you can nibble on everything from flaky, vanilla-custard-filled almond croissants, to cannolis, bacon sandwiches and juicy sausages. Locally produced soap, cheese, chutneys and oils are on sale too, making perfect gifts for friends back home.
Splurge with a late tasting menu lunch at Vasse Felix, Margaret River’s founding winery, after that, an afternoon doze and light dinner would be the best order.
Day Five
Heading North back towards Perth, stop for the whale watching tours departing the iconic wooden Busselton Jetty. The protected waters of Geographe Bay are a playground for frolicking Minke, Southern Right, Humpback and Blue whales from September to November.
Got some time to kill in Perth? Grab that last bite at our favourite Bivouac Canteen for eastern –inspired sharing plates and cheeky cocktails, or lay your head down for some sumptuous rest and relax at the 48-room Como, The Treasury Perth, located within the restored, Victorian-era 19th century State Buildings.
Luxury ahead.
Picture credits: Main, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
