A holiday in Margaret River is a relaxing getaway replete with a selection of Australia’s finest food and wine. A three-hour drive south of Perth, Western Australia’s premier holiday region is a montage of natural beauty, premium wineries, excellent restaurants, rustic arts & crafts, glittering beaches, ancient forests and warm, friendly locals.
It’s a region for all seasons, whether autumn dawn walks in wooded valleys veiled in mist; cosy winter nights spent with good friends (and a great red) around a roaring fire; spring picnics amid towering karri forest ablaze with wildflowers; or summer days lazing on a secluded beach by a sparkling sea. For a coastal walk, why not try a section of the cape to Cape Walk between capes Naturaliste and Leeuwin? The family can spot migrating whales, fossick in rock pools and chill out on pristine beaches along the way.
Artists and crafty types find the spirit of place and convivial atmosphere inspirational, so Margaret River is a focal point for creative types. The same urge infects winemakers and chefs, so a Margaret River holiday is always a gourmet’s delight. Others visit to defy the wild elements; whale watchers, sailors, cavers, scuba divers, fishermen, bushwalkers, golfers and surfers; all make a pilgrimage to Margaret River.
Margaret River has become renowned around the world for its premium wines. Whether sublime Chardonnay, vibrant Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, intense and complex Cabernets or luscious Shiraz, Margaret River wine has a reputation for distinguished character and quality.
The region is gifted with an array of natural attractions worth visiting all year round. The ancient caves, unspoiled beaches and majestic forests offer something for everyone. The rugged beauty of the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge with its dramatic cliffs and rocks, the tranquil waters of the many protected bays, the local vineyards covered in mist in the early morning all contribute to outstanding visual splendour. It’s a photographer’s dream. It’s also a fisherman’s paradise, but you may need to get friendly with the locals to find out where they’re biting.
Margaret River fun facts
Margaret River produces just 1% of all Australia’s wine, but over 15% of its premium wines
Humpback and Southern Right whale watching is best between May and September
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is situated at the most south westerly tip of Australia, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet
Cairns at Christmas
Sunday 20th December 2009
Travel Counsellor: Rosemary Metcalf
Cairns in summer is the least likely place for Australians to go for a holiday. We took the challenge to spend Christmas with family and to take on the so called ‘wet season’ of the north. The direct services are the only way to go, with flights from Melbourne taking around 3.5 hours.
When we first arrived the humidity was a bit of a shock, but we soon settled into our social routine. The wet season was thankfully delayed, as it seems to be getting later each year. So we enjoyed near perfect conditions, without too many other tourists.
Cairns is the gateway to Far North Queensland with a destination to suit most travellers. One of my favourites (on which everyone agrees) is the picturesque beach setting of Palm Cove. This small seaside village boasts some great little eateries and a variety of accommodation.
A spectacular one hour drive north of Cairns is another favorite spot, Port Douglas. This is a great place to browse in the boutiques, or to enjoy lunch with the locals in... view full story
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