The Absolute Best Things to Do in Margaret River This Spring
Western Australia occupies an entire third of Australia and most of the population is concentrated around Perth. A naturally and culturally blessed state, WA is a place you have to see to believe. It’s said the first inhabitants arrived as many as 60,000 years ago, the flora includes 10,162 native plants and the coastline stretches a massive 20,781 kilometres (islands included). The reasons to visit WA are infinite, and the Margaret River region is home to many of the state’s most charming assets. These are a few things you must do on your first visit to Margaret River.
Go Whale Watching
Margaret River’s whale watching season is one of the longest in the world. Visitors can enjoy some of the best whale watching in the country from May through early December, which means you don’t have to visit in the heart of winter to marvel at the majestic ocean creatures. It’s not necessary to travel far from Margaret River’s coast to see the abundance of whales that inhabit the area, and many times you’ll be able to see them breach the water’s surface from shore.
However, there’s nothing like seeing the whales, cruising along what has been named the “Humpback Highway,” up close and personally with an experienced guide (local favourites are Legend Charters and Naturaliste Charters). Bring your camera, because you’ll likely see countless sea birds, Bottlenose Dolphins, New Zealand Fur Seals and other Aussie sea creatures too.
Eat, Eat and Eat Some More
Australian Traveller Magazine recently named Margaret River Australia’s №1 Must-Visit Food Destination. Margaret River has long been known as one of the world’s top wine regions, but restaurant owners were happy to see the food praised alongside the fermented grapes. Visitors will be welcomed by a long list of restaurants serving fresh seafood, local produce and chefs that have come from around the world to display their dishes in this unique part of the country and the world.
Dine on everything from delicious pub grub to several-course degustation menus, all while pairing your meal with some of the world’s best wine or carefully crafted beers. Find many of the area’s most famous restaurants along the Bussell Highway or plan your visit around the four-day foodie festival, Gourmet Escape, taking place from16–19 November, this year.
Discover the Indigenous Culture of WA
Western Australia offers an entirely different look into the ancient cultures of Australia, and Margaret River is one of the coolest places to discover it. Even the most anti-tour travellers will love an adventure with Koomal Dreaming, walking in the ancient footsteps of the Bibbulmun and Wardandi people. Explore the Ngilgi Cave, taste native foods, make fires like they did thousands of years ago and meet the spirits that inspired the lives of the Aboriginal people who once called the beautiful Margaret River region home.
Originally published at www.flightnetwork.com.au.
