Australia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, particularly for English speakers. However, more often than not, visitors to the ‘Great South Land’ generally opt for a journey to the East coast, drawn in no doubt by the artistic vibrancy of Melbourne and the sprawling cosmopolitan excess of Sydney. Which is fine however, by by-passing the West coast – as many do – you’ll be missing out on a trip to one of Australia’s most idyllic and naturally breath-taking locations: Margaret River.
Sand and Surf
For a long time, Margaret River was a well-kept secret; a sort of semi-isolated oasis populated largely by ex-hippies. Nowadays though, it is fast becoming an incredibly desirable holiday location, in no small part due to the surf. This town of only 4,000 people is home to some of the most brutal and notorious surf breaks in the world, with the Margaret River Masters, (an international surfing competition held there every year), a testament to this reputation. But even for non-surfers, the beaches have plenty to offer as well; sky-blue seas and picture-postcard sandy beaches that even a Californian native would be envious of.
Wine
Fancy a nice drop of red or white? Fortunately, wine production is the biggest industry in the Margaret River region, bar none. With a Mediterranean-style climate, and perfect humidity levels, the area is responsible for producing some of the most unique and powerful wines in the new world. Naturally, wineries have therefore become a central part of the tourist trade here. Throughout the region there are literally dozens of world-class wineries, each offering diverse, exceptional local cuisine and of course, a full range of some of the most delectable reds and whites you’re ever likely to taste. And if you want to share a drop with your friends back home, you can always send a bottle of Margaret River wine to your mates via TNT (or a similar service), just to let them know what they’re missing out on.
Everything You Could Wish For
There’s no denying that Australia has a lot to offer in terms of tourism, whichever region you head for. Yet so many visitors follow the well-trodden paths of the East coast. Here’s a tip: If you’re looking to escape from the cities and into a more tranquil and natural form of indulgence, Margaret River has just about everything you could wish for.
