Margaret River and Great Southern Info
Introduction
Few other areas on the island of Australia, or in any part of the world for that matter, can claim to have the particularly exceptional and pleasing natural characteristics that the Margaret River Region has. This scenic and bewildering natural paradise, nestled in the South West tourist area of the Australian state of Western Australia, is an enchanting and spell-binding place that will lure visitors in with its many delicious aromas and tastes, perhaps never to let them go. Famed for the spectacularly successful (on a global scale) wines that come out of this part of the country, and especially out of the many historic and bountiful wineries that dot the shores of the Margaret River itself, the region has got the perfect blend of treats for the senses...all of them.
The lazy Margaret River meanders its way through this remote corner of Australia, pouring out into the warm and calm expanse of the Indian Ocean. The best surf conditions in the whole country are to be found precisely in this part of the South West, with people from all over the world flocking to the region to experience the tall waves that crash in perfect unison and rhythm on the gentle shores.
Visiting Margaret River & The Great Southern
This part of Australia is ripe with mystery and enchantment, being so far away from the hustles and hassles of major metropolitan and urban areas that tend to dominate the eastern part of the island. The South West is one big getaway, and it seems like more and more people are trying to “get away” every year, as the frequency of tourist visits is on the rise quite noticeably (though without harming the tranquil beauty that characterizes the region). The actual town of Margaret River (as opposed to the region, which is what people refer to when they talk about wines) is a wonderful and peaceful place, one that has been much more successful than other towns of its sort that, after decades and decades of non-existent economic activity finally hit a major boom (in this case because of the success of the wineries); instead of turning itself into a gaudy and tacky resort town full of high rises and condos, this place remained truer to its roots and controlled its development, opting instead for discreet and suiting chalets and bed and breakfasts, as well as some countryside lodges and even an affordable circuit of cute motels.
The long history of economic stagnation and lack of productivity were shaken off in the last 20 years or so thanks to the spectacular boom occasioned by the success of the many varieties of wine developed in the region, and the tourism has just exploded (again, in a good way) ever since. Today, the town is active in a colloquial sort of way, with plenty of artisans and local shop owners proudly running their stores on the main promenade. Among the most common activities for visitors to undertake is a tour of the local winery circuit, which will result in an afternoon of relaxation and perhaps mild inebriation—it turns out that the wines are just too good to say no to, even after you've tried practically every kind that is produced locally.
If you're just looking to take it easy, however, Margaret River has got you covered in that sense, too. The town has a good culinary reputation, with several excellent fine dining restaurants as well as several more typical cafes and diners, even an English pub or two. Then, to help all the good eats settle nicely in your belly, there are beautiful and scenic walks to be enjoyed in the mystic forests and along the untamed bush.
History and Items of Interest
This part of Australia is proud of its history as a rugged terrain that only the brave and strong of heart had the tenacity to endure. There has always been a pioneer's keen sense of survival and outdoorsmen spirit to the local culture; something the newly developed wine industry has only mellowed in the smallest, most beneficial way. In addition to attracting people from all over the globe to enjoy the coveted products of the winery cellars, there are also significant surfing reunions, like the Margaret River Masters, which meets right outside of town on the Indian Ocean coast every year to take advantage of the incomparable surf conditions.