20 Bucket List Experiences

Bucket List Experiences

A FIRST TIMER’S GUIDE TO THE MARGARET RIVER REGION

Welcome to the Margaret River Region, where there’s so much to explore, you’ll need to plan a return. From rolling vineyards, fairyland forests and pristine beaches, here’s 20 ways to experience the best of this beautiful region. Grab your camera and enjoy the adventures.

WORDS | LIZZY PEPPER 1Plan your road trip The Margaret River Region is BIG; think Melbourne to Mornington, or Sydney to Wollongong, packed with incredible food, wine and scenic stops. Check out DriveYourStory.com for 5 inspirational road trips.

2Explore with a local You see so much more with a local showing you around, and there’s some fantastic nature eco tours on offer. There’s twilight woylie tours, wildflower and orchid experiences, kayaking, scenic helicopter flights and more. Check out margaretriver.com for alternative tours and inspiration.

3Climb a lighthouse Climb Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse to see where two oceans meet, and discover the minimuseum for a glimpse into life on the cape 100+ years ago. Tower tours will recommence midspring after restoration work on the lighthouse is completed. 4Stroll the jetty Walk the nearly 2km Busselton Jetty or take a train ride to the end, where you’ll find an underwater observatory with a view of the coral, sponges and fishes that call it home.

5Holiday with a light footprint Augusta Margaret River Shire is celebrating its recent ECO Destination certification, and you’ll find a community of tourism operators committed to sustainable practices. Pick quality nature-based experiences and accommodation to reduce your impact.

6Walk the Cape to Cape Track One of the greatest walks in Australia, the Cape to Cape Track connects sandy beaches, clifftop walking tracks and national park. Pressed for time? Choose a short section and marvel at the ancient granite and aquamarine bays.

7Descend into Crystal Caves Beneath the coast lies over 100 limestone caves, each decorated with amazing crystal formations. Four are open to explore. Ngilgi Cave is adventurous. Mammoth and Lake Cave are set in breathtaking forest. Jewel Cave is the largest and most decorated of all.

8Find beauty in the Boranup Forest Discover a breathtaking karri forest where glowing trunks tower 80 metres high. Experience Boranup or the incredible Wadandi Track on a mountain bike tour, e-bike wine tour or eco quad bike adventure.

9Wonder at whales We have the longest whale watching season in the world, running June to December. Jump on a charter boat, or keep an eye out in Augusta, Point Piquet and along the Cape Track for the migrating mammals.

Adventure in an aquatic playground Surrounded by ocean on three sides, you’ll find your new favourite beaches and aquatic adventures here. Find a safe swimming beach, book a surfing lesson or charter a yacht for an afternoon.

Relax on the river Kayak the Margaret River on a discovery tour or hire a houseboat in Augusta where the Scott and Blackwood Rivers meet. Marvel at the bird life and dolphins and try your hand at fishing. Explore cellar doors Margaret River has more 5-star wineries than any other region in the Halliday Wine Companion 2023. Cabernet and Chardonnay are king, but you’ll also find winemakers doing wonders with lesser-known varietals and lo-fi techniques.

Lunch at a winery restaurant It’s one of life’s pleasures, lunch overlooking picture-perfect vineyards. There’s plenty of choice; from the family friendly with woodfired pizzas, to the wine-serious degustations and sustainable wineries raising their own animals and vegetables.

Indulge in immersive experiences Dive deep into fine wine, with immersive experiences spanning guided vineyard walks to tutored tastings, degustation lunches and trust-the-chef dinners. Be sure to visit a mix of celebrated estates and smaller gems. Dine with a view Whether you’re gazing over the ocean or picnicking by the river, there’s plenty of places to dine with a view. Try a seafood and sunset cruise in Geographe Bay, brekkie at a beach café or a winery or brewery lunch perched above a lush valley.

Centrally located in the world-class wine region of Margaret River, Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge REST, RELAX, RECONNECT has earned its place as an award-winning escape for those seeking the very best in secluded Romantic, secluded couples’ retreat in accommodation. self-contained chalets with candlelit sky-view spas, kingsized beds and tranquil forest outlooks, on 240 acres of natural beauty. Secluded, quiet, and peaceful, the crucial ingredients for your next well-deserved getaway. Book Direct and enjoy our Spring Special. Rest - Relax - Reconnect this Spring at Forest Rise

231 Yelverton Road, Yelverton Margaret River Wine Region Phone (08) 9755 7110 or email reception@forestrise.com.au

Top: Exploring the Cape to Cape Track can be a simple half day hike, or a full 6-day guided experience. Above: Educate yourself about Country on a guided experience with Koomal Dreaming. Relax at a boutique brewery or distillery With a thriving craft brewing and distilling scene, and new venues in Busselton, you’re spoilt for choice where to grab a frothy or cocktail. Discover 60,000 years of

Wadandi history This is Wadandi Boodja, land of the Wadandi (Saltwater) People. Walk softly, take the time to listen to and care for Boodja (Country). Join Wadandi cultural custodian Josh Whiteland as he shares stories and history.

Catch a gig at The River, Clancy’s or Settlers Tav These pubs pack a triple punch; awesome wine lists, great food and the best touring bands. Also keep an eye out for winery concerts, as watching your fav Aussie artists under a twinkling sky can’t be beat.

browse local jewellers There’s a wealth of artistic talent in the region. Find handmade rings with pearls and coral at Payet Gallery, or look to John Miller Design with uniquely carved statement pieces. Local paintings, sculptures, and furniture can also be discovered in the region’s many galleries.

Mark your diary Arts lovers, pop CinefestOZ and Margaret River Region Open Studios in your calendar, for a dose of indie film and a private peek into the studios of local artists and creatives. Sports enthusiasts be sure to get along the the Busselton Jetty Swim or the Cape to Cape MTB.