Margaret River Visitor Guide

Tours and Attractions All ages, interests, budgets and tastes are catered for with the region's abundance of natural and cultural attractions. On land, underground, out at sea or in the vines, be sure to allow enough time to explore the region's many highlights. WinE TOuRing Wine tours take the decision-making out of which of the area's 150-plus cellar door outlets to visit. By limousine, mini bus, vintage car or air, they can get you behind the scenes at a winery, or one of the region's classy winery restaurants. Combine a wine tour with a cooking class for a complete gourmet experience. Or take your taste buds on a more comprehensive tour of the region's offerings, including cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and olives. WATERSPORTS On the water, charter boats cater to the whims of deep sea fishermen, scuba divers and whale watching enthusiasts. Surfing, kite surfing or canoeing on the river and ocean are among the get-wet activities that cater for beginners or veterans. nATuRAL WOndERS On the land, take an eco-tour to where the kangaroos and wildflowers inhabit the landscape. Tour the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the tallest on mainland Australia, for a touch of maritime history, or descend into the coastal limestone to visit one of the magically-lit caves lying beneath the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge. Jewel, Lake, Moondyne and Mammoth Caves offer some of the most breathtaking cave experiences in Australia, and are open for guided tours year round. SELF dRiVE AdVEnTuRES If you're self driving, design your own itinerary with the help of the comprehensive free map and expert advice from the Augusta or Margaret River Visitor Centres. The trusty map is packed with all the region's attractions, from gourmet food and wine stopovers to artisan's studios, walking trails, beaches, shopping and wineries. FAMiLY Fun When family-friendly is your requirement, the Margaret River region delivers. The region is brimming with appeal for the whole family. There are beaches, forests and caves, and a bounty of low cost, high-impact treats in between. Kids can't go past a visit to one of the fun food factories, from chocolate to cheese and nougat. And there are plenty of activities to burn off the extra energy. Horse riding, cycling, bush walking, abseiling and swimming are all memory making activities for a childhood holiday. Enrol in a surf lesson, visit an animal farm or tour a limestone cave. They're not only fun, but educational too. In this fresh coastal air kids can connect, learn and grow while enjoying the holiday of their lives. And there's always the local ice cream and fudge for afters. Delivering a family holiday without breaking the bank is entirely possible here. Families of nature lovers, adventurers or budding gourmands can find plenty to amuse themselves, from building sandcastles to swinging off the playground equipment at the many wineries and breweries. Who said child's play and adult time don't mix? information & bookings +61 8 9780 5911 or margaretriver.com | 33

• Cover