Why you shouldn’t fly overseas for your next holiday

The many attractions of Western Australia’s Margaret River Region can be categorised by their beauty – beauty that you see, beauty you taste and beauty you feel.

Just a three hour drive from Perth, the Margaret River region extends from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin and is easily manageable by car.

Just 110 kilometres end to end, the region manages to pack in some of Australia’s (and the world’s) best wine, food, beaches and forest.

Planning your next trip is simple – and it won’t require a passport.

• Visual diary of Australia’s most beautiful landscape
• Could you live in an apartment this small?
• Recipe: appetiser for the health-conscious host

What to see

Incredible views. After hiring a car in the Perth, start your drive south and head straight for the town of Busselton, where you’ll find the 1.8-kilometre long Busselton Jetty.

Jump on the jetty train for a relaxing ride, or walk the length of the jetty while taking in the view.

At the end of the jetty sits one of the world’s more unique underwater observatories – not to be missed.

Crystal clear water. Next, stick to the coast as you drive just 25 minutes’ west to the charming town of Dunsborough.

Soak up the local café culture before heading to the main attraction: bay beaches, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

At night, make a beeline for a wine bar and check out the local music scene.

Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is named after the two capes that boundary it. Photo: Getty

Spectacular national parks. Dunsborough sits right near the norther-most point of the breathtaking Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

Whether you’re after tranquil lagoons, rugged cliffs or picture-perfect views of the Indian Ocean, you’ll find them here.

Not to mention the probability of spotting a few rare sea birds and humpback whales in between the beach breaks.

And the lesser-fit needn’t worry – both shorter walks and longer hikes are on offer depending on how you want to approach this beautiful area.

Local art scenes. Next, on your way to Margaret River proper, stop for a coffee and wander around in Yallingup, ten minutes’ drive toward the coast.

Famous for producing world-class surfers (you can just watch if you like), Yallingup is also worth visiting for its many galleries and arts precinct.

Drinking and eating

It won’t surprise anyone to hear Western Australia is a foodie and wine-lover’s paradise, and the town of Margaret River is at the heart of it.

The region is littered with vineyards and cellar doors – some with their own restaurants. Photo: Getty

Aided by a pristine climate perfect for grape growing, the region has built a reputation as one of the world’s best – so what better place for a winery tour?

Ideal for those who prefer to sit back, relax and let someone else do the organising (and driving), Margaret River wine tours vary from half-day to full-day, fun to educational and cater for anyone from wine beginners to aficionados.

You’re also spoiled for choice when it comes to mode of transport – choose from a kombi van, 4WD or something with a touch of class.

For those less interested in wine, head over to one of Margaret River’s many breweries, cideries or distilleries instead.

That’s the thirst settled – now for the stomach.

Where the wine’s good, the food often follows suit, and Margaret River is no exception.

The region covers everything from casual café cool to world class dining, always taking advantage of premium local produce.

It’s easy to forget that Margaret River isn’t just about food and wine. Photo: Getty

A whopping 30 Margaret River wineries have their own restaurant, so combining the food and wine experience is not only easy but encouraged. Palmer Wines, Cullen Wines and Leeuwin Estate are just three options to get you going.

Where to stay

A full day’s eating and drinking will have you ready to bunker down for the night in style, and the Margaret River region has accommodation for every taste.

Whether you’d prefer staying the night on a 50-acre countryside retreat, an eco-friendly resort deep in the forest or a charming local bed and breakfast – there’s something for everyone.

This article was proudly sponsored by Tourism Western Australia. To discover more, visit westernaustralia.com.