Dunsborough Accommodations and Margaret River

Dunsborough lies at the tip of Margaret River along Geographe Bay. It used to be a small whaling facility with a handful of beach huts for overnight travellers. The upsurge of tourism in Australia has transformed this area into a well-known family vacation area. Scenic beaches and shopping hubs have sprung up during the last few years. Visitors have also cited Dunsborough accommodation as one of the reasons for Margaret River’s transformation into a principal tourism hub in the country.

Dunsborough is definitely a place to unwind. It promises to be a special weekend treat for adults as well as kids. You can go whale-watching for a change on board the special charter boats or go scuba-diving in the calm waters of Geographe Bay. Bunker and Eagle Coves are ideal for snorkelling and swimming. You can proceed by boat or take the trail down to these inlets. Tourists can also explore the walking trails surrounding Cape Naturaliste.

You can choose any Dunsborough accommodation while staying in Margaret River. Dunsborough Holiday Homes is a good choice. It is just three minutes away from the town proper and the beach front and 10 minutes trek to Yallingup. The place is known for the colorful birds and kangaroos as well as verdant forests. Another ideal place to stay is the Bay Village Resort and Spa which is more than two hours drive from the southern portion of Perth. It is a peaceful town by the sea in the famous southwest recreational area of Western Australia. The accommodations are clean and comfortable and perfect for families or couples. It is also very close to the wine cellars and breweries in the Margaret River region. It has also become renowned for the tranquil beaches, barbecue areas, picnic grounds, premier shopping outlets, and children’s activity areas.

Dunsborough Wine Tours for Couples

The Dunsborough wine region is a popular destination for those visiting the south west part of Western Australia, and it, along with the Margaret River wine breweries nearby, produces some of the country’s finest wine. There are numerous dunsborough wine tours being held around the region, which provide an ideal way for a couple to spend the day (or half a day) while visiting this beautiful part of WA.

Margaret River Tours

Margaret River tours provide two winery tours, a half day tour and a full day tour. On the half day tour visitors can see four local wineries and enjoy samples of their excellent wines, as well as samples of locally produced cheese and chocolate, with an afternoon vineyard platter. The half day tours start at 1pm and end at 5pm in time to head back to town and enjoy your evening.

The full day Wine and Dine tour starts at 10am and finishes at 5pm, and provides the opportunity to see wine making in progress, and enjoy a taste of some of the region’s best wines. During the tour six of the region’s wineries will be selected for visiting (from Stella Bella, Cape Mentelle, Voyager, Leeuwin, Vasse Felix and Pierro & Moss Brothers). Lunch is enjoyed at the Voyager Estate Restaurant, and there’s also the opportunity for chocolate and cheese tasting, as well as the afternoon’s vineyard platter.

Cella d’Or Winery Tours

Cellar d’Or Winery Tours are also a fantastic option for those visiting the Dunsborough or Margaret River region. They offer the convenience of pick up and drop off at your accommodation, and take you to see five of the finest wineries in the region, as well as lunch and beer tasting at a local micro brewery. On your tour you’ll visit not just the local wineries, but you’ll also visit a renowned venue for chocolate and cheese tasting, and will see the Natural Olive Oil Soap Factory in action. Every guest is given a souvenir glass and a personal wine tasting record and pen which can be kept as a memento of the tour.

Bushtucker River and Margaret Wine Tours

Bushtucker River and Wine tours offer a variety of tours throughout the Dunsborough and Margaret River wine regions also. One of the most popular tours, and winner of three state awards for both service and value for money, the Bushtucker Wineries & Breweries Tour offers pick up from your accommodation at 10.30am, from where you’ll visit several local attractions, with samplings and up to 40 free tastings at four local wineries, a brewery, and the local chocolate and cheese companies. Lunch is served at one of the region’s most scenic wineries. These tours depart from either Margaret River, Dunsborough or Bussleton.

If you’re visiting the south west part of Western Australia, you’ll find numerous opportunities to tour through the region, and taking a Margaret wine tour is one of the most enjoyable ways to see the sights and experience some of the region’s best wines, beers and local cuisine.

Fabulous Attractions at Margaret River

Tourists clamouring to visit this remarkable destination in Western Australia will surely be thrilled with its natural enticements. When you join Margaret river tours, you can witness the unspoilt splendour such as the lush woodlands, immaculate beaches and mystifying caves. All told, these reveal the natural beauty of Margaret River.

One place that will clearly catch your fancy is the celebrated Lake Cave which is a distant 25 kilometres south of this region. Go down 350 steps and behold the enormous sinkhole which used to be the biggest underground catacomb. It looks like a prehistoric cave adorned with stunning limestone precipices and a pensive lake that reflects delicate rock formations. It was uncovered in 1867. Until now, it remains undisturbed except for the dripping water from the stalactite structures and the popular “Suspended Table”. This heavy calcite mineral weighs more than five metric tons and appears to dangle dangerously form the cave’s ceiling.

Meanwhile, Calgardup cave looks every bit astonishing due to the water that covers the bottom of the two caverns. Elevated stands have already been constructed s visitors can lighten up after a tiring trek inside the cave. If you opt for Margaret river tours, you can also see Mammoth and Jewel caves which are can be easily reached and bedecked with alluring rock formations. These caves are open daily throughout the year except on December 25. Experienced guides are willing to take you along simply to make sure that you enjoy every bit of your tour inside these caves. Margaret river tours will also take you to bio-diversity areas which boast of more than 150 varieties of orchids and 2,500 types of wildflowers which unfortunately are under threat. The months of September to November are described as wildflower season in Margaret River. However, the month of October is the best time to see these floral blooms in full development.

A Thousand and One Things to do in Margaret River, Australia

Numerous tourists flock to the Margaret River district in Southwestern Australia every year. This is one of the most visited attractions of the country because of astonishing sights and world-renowned vineyards. It is also bustling with activities such as wine-tasting, gourmet food festivals, musical and theater presentations as well as markets for local goods. You can be assured of leisure interests that will keep you occupied throughout your stay in this amazing place. Indeed, there is a never-ending list of what to do in Margaret River.

• If you have a passion for rock-climbing, you might as well try abseiling in sea precipices located in Wilyabrup. This technique is used by climbers when the slope is too sharp and quite treacherous to descend without any rope. Newcomers are taught safety procedures such as moving safely from low to high rock faces.
• Whale-watching is one pastime that you should not miss. You can see the whales playing in the crystal-clear ocean waters at Cape Naturaliste. The best time to witness the pod of humpback whales splattering around is from June to October when these huge sea mammals start traveling northward. Viewing the sting rays in Hamelin Bay is another must-see for lovers of marine life. These cartilaginous schools of fish swim near the beaches and pose for photo session with travelers.
• The Cape Leeuwin lighthouse is one of the remarkable attractions in Margaret River where the Indian and Southern oceans converge. It stands at 39 meters and is the tallest beacon in the country and one of the very few that continues to function in the whole world. Tourists describe the light as very powerful just like the ray of “a million lighted candles.” It can brighten up the surroundings as distant as 48 kilometers away. There are organized tours every day and guests can relax at the coffee shop or visit the retail facility nearby.
• A visit to Margaret River will never be complete without the captivating wine tours.  This promises to be an unforgettable experience for the wine connoisseur. Aside from the animated Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, inspiring Chardonnay and the Cabernets, you will also be treated to a sumptuous lunch or dinner during the full-day excursions. There are over 150 wine makers in the region replete with cellar doors featuring fine-dining restaurants, market gardens, art arcades and boutique shops.
• The region offers an exceptional cave experience. Over 150 caves lie by the side of the Leeuwin ridge and underneath the towering Karri Forest. These caves are part of the Karst Systems which consist of topography developed by the fast draining of water under the ground. The tourism association of Margaret River operates a trio of impressive show caves, namely Lake, Jewel and Mammoth. Each cave tells a unique story as shown by its alluring formations. The caves are open for public viewing every day except on Christmas.

There are other things to see and do in Margaret River. You will definitely want to go back and spend a longer time in this haven with the whole family.

3 Caves Margaret River Visitors Should See

Taken from MargaretRiver.com

With more than 150 natural caves, Margaret River is an excellent choice for adventurers looking to go cave exploring. The region lies below a massive historic karri forest along the spine of the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge providing a beautiful nature-experience for visitors. In addition to the caves, Margaret River also hosts world-famous wine and surfing.

The caves Margaret River has to offer:

Three show caves, Mammoth, Jewel, and Lake, are operated by the Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association with guided or self-guided tours open to the public every day but Christmas.

Lake Cave: Lake Cave, Margaret River, Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridges only cave with a permanent lake, is home to the, suspended table, a several ton piece of calcite suspended over a lake that appears to float in mid-air. Suspended table is one of the only formations of its kind in the world. This cave is a great choice for children or travellers who are new to cave exploration.

Mammoth Cave: Mammoth Cave is handicapped accessible, at least to the first chamber, and by far the easiest accessed of the three caves. Tours are self-guided and come with an MP3 audio tour visitors can listen to as they view the cave. Mammoth Cave is famous for its rare, ancient plant and animal fossils.

Jewel Cave: Jewel Cave is the largest cave Margaret River has to offer. It is the home to a 580-centimetre straw stalactite, one of the largest in the world that is available for public tours. Jewel cave has four main chambers, one of which contains the Jewel Cave Preservation Centre featuring a cafe with shopping and dining. Jewel Cave is low-light with a soft-glow for viewing rock formations offering visitors a feeling of being under the ocean without the water.

CaveWorks Eco Centre and Research: The CaveWork Centre allows visitors to learn more about cave formation, the caves present in the area, view replicas of caves, and observe professional cave researchers at work. There is even a life-like cave replica for children to explore.

All guided options for tours are provided by experts who can share fascinating facts and history of the caves while ensuring the safety of everyone present. Guide experts are also first-aid certified with on-going training.

The caves Margaret River has to offer are unique and provide a holiday experience those of all ages can enjoy to create memories that last a lifetime.

All About Whale Watching in Margaret River

Photo taken from MargaretRiver.com

Whale watching in Margaret River can prove an once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors and locals alike. The area witnesses the northern migration of Humpback, Southern Right and Blue whales to warmer waters every year providing an excellent opportunity to spot various types of whales up close and in their natural habitat.

Whales that migrate in the region

For those seeking to go whale watching in Margaret River between June and October, Humpback and Southern Right whales migrate during this time. These whales travel to the cold waters of the south in summer to feed, but then travel north past Margaret River to winter in warmer waters. Blue whales are seen slightly less frequently as they have an irregular migration pattern and don’t often travel in groups. Instead pregnant mothers travel fist, followed by juveniles, and then males. Older Blue whales also tend to travel further up the coast.

Options for whale watching in Margaret River

The Margaret River area offers two main options for whale watchers, viewing from the shore or viewing from a boat.

Chartered whale watching tours

The most popular option is whale watching boat tours. These expert-guided tours offer an up-close look at the whales right on the water. One major advantage of chartered boat whale watching is that viewers can go where the whales are, rather than hoping they pass close to land. Numerous charter companies exist in the area including Naturaliste Charters and Legend charters. Different companies offer different tour locations, so be sure to shop around.
Whale watching from the shore

However, if watching from the shore is preferable, depending on what time of year visitors are looking there are options for that as well. Those visiting in June can view both Humpback and Southern Right whales from Flinders Bay, which is just 40 minutes south of Margaret River. In July to early August, the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse provides a great viewing location for whales. Finally, towards the end of the migration season in September Geographe Bay is the best location to seek out. This is also an ideal place to spot Blue whales. Geographe Bay is within a day north of Margaret River and makes a wonderful stop for whale watchers.

No matter how viewers choose to go whale watching in Margaret River, its sure to be an experience that will not soon be forgotten—and may have to be had again!

6 Things to Do in Margaret River

Whether you’re looking to view the grandeur of nature, enjoy fine dining, unique shopping, sample world-renowned wine or just relax, there is no shortage of wonderful things to do in Margaret River. In fact, the list of possibilities is extensive enough you could stay for months and not check off every option. Here is just a brief sampling of the many things you could put on your travel agenda this trip.

Cave exploration: The Margaret River region is home to over 150 natural caves. The three most popular options include Lake Cave, Mammoth Cave, and Jewel Cave. Each gorgeous natural wonder has its own interesting history and can be viewed self-guided or by tour. If that interesting back story is of interest to you, you may want to consider the guided version. Your guide will be able to not only lead you safely through the caves, but also share fascinating stories and factual information along the way.

The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse: Standing 39 metres high and 56 metres above sea level, the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is a historical landmark ocean lovers shouldn’t miss. The lighthouse is located where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet on the western point of the most southern region of Australia.

Wineries: While a less historic attraction on the list of things to do in Margaret River, the regions over 150 wineries are world renown. The first grape vine was planted in Margaret River a mere 45 year ago, however, since then the fantastic growing conditions for the area have lend to the production of delicious chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, other cabernets, shirazs, and sauvignon semillon blancs. Many of the wineries are open to the public for tours as well as wine tasting.

Breweries: If wine just isn’t your style, Margaret River also houses several breweries. Margaret river breweries are famous for producing unique and creative local blends in numerous styles that beer lovers have to visit just to try.

Surfing: The Margaret River region has an impressive 130 kilometers of surf-able, and rather popular, beaches from Cape Leeuwin to Cape Naturaliste making enjoying the beach makes a great addition to the list of things to do in Margaret River, especially if you’re a surfer. A world-wide surf completion, The Telstra Drug Aware Pro Margaret River, is even held each year around March or April.

Galleries: For the art lovers of the traveling world, Margaret River also has numerous art galleries and dealers which include the work of talented painters, wood and metal workers, glass blowers, jewelers, and other artisan goods. You’re sure to find the perfect memento to take home from your visit.

This is only a short sampling of things to do in Margaret River, as for what else you can see, you’ll have to come see for yourself!

Go visit MargaretRiver.com for more information and tips on things to do Margaret River.

A Short Clip on Margaret River from The Lonely Planet

A Clip on Wine Touring at Margaret River

Wine Touring in Margaret River, Western Australia by radiolynxcontent