"Margaret River" Margaret River by arianne_1504

Margaret River is located 272 kms south of Perth - a neat three hour drive. It's the perfect spot to relax and get back to nature. Whether you love surfing, swimming, bush walking, sampling wine, chocolate & an array of fresh produce, or just milling around town, Margaret River has it all.

Plus it's so close to numerous other hotspots throughout WA's South West so it makes a great base to travel from. Trips to Pemberton, Augusta, Yalingup, Dunsborough, Busselton, Witchcliffe and many other places of interest are an easy drive away.

A note though, if you don't like the crowds, stay away during the peak seasons, especially the Easter long weekend. You can't get anywhere fast and don't expect to eat out in a hurry either.

Redgate Beach

It can get really wet and very cold during the winter months, it gets really hot during Summer and during the other months it can be very much jacket-on, jacket-off, jacket-on, jacket-off....

But whatever the weather, there are heaps of things to do. Even if that is simply sitting in front of a wood fire with a fantastic glass of red wine.

I've been to a sheep-shearing show, travelled via scooter down to Boranup (check out Boranup Cafe), walked the Busselton Jetty and viewed the Underwater Observatory, watched live bands at Settlers, gone on group horse-rides, found glorious treasures hunting through the backrooms of Lloyds, visited the many wineries and breweries (Cape Lavender, the Berry Farm, Settlers Ridge Organic Wines and Blackwood Meadery are all favourites), checked out the local produce (peppered duck proscuitto - yum!), watched the sun set over the beach and even had a couple of tattoos done.

Gnarabup Beach

I'm not a beach person at all, but even I couldn't resist the beautiful beaches of the Margaret River Region.

There are heaps of great spots for fishing, horseriding, walking, shopping, picnicking, relaxing, drinking, eating, swimming, surfing and just strolling along the beach. Each time I make it down here, there is something different to do!

And what a perfect way to end the day, sharing a glass of wine with friends while watching the sunset over the water!

• Pros:Wineries, Bush Walking, Lloyds, Fresh Air, Pristine Beaches, Local Produce
• Cons:Tourist Season
• In a nutshell:Wildlife, Wine and Waves