Margaret River rambling

Just 260 kilometre south of Perth, Margaret River’s vineyards are renowned. Arrive at your lodge and you’ll be treated to a wine tasting. For the rest of the afternoon, unwind in bucolic scenery with little to disturb you but the sound of kookaburras. The manicured gardens are perfect for a stroll and you’re never far from a cellar door (tasting room). In the evening, dine on regional specialities like hapuku (cod-like fish) and lamb shoulder with charred aubergine. 

After a hearty breakfast, you should be raring for a walk. Start your six-hour gentle hike at the amber granite rocks of Redgate Beach. The trail takes in craggy cliffs, limestone caves and lofty pale-bark karris trees – some over 60m tall. With a private guide leading the way, you can admire the thrashing surf and sprawling wild forest without concern. Refuel on your gourmet picnic and relax before returning to the lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Your starting point today is Canal Rocks where years of crashing waves have chiselled out picturesque channels in the granite rock. From here, walk along the coast to Smiths Beach where you can rest on white-powder sands and take a dip in the sea. Lunch is served at Vasse Felix, an iconic winery featuring one of the region’s slickest tasting rooms boasting a signature cabernet sauvignon. A visit to the on-site gallery is a must, as well as a meander through the beautiful gardens.