Margaret River, Western Australia Australia

Australia’s Margaret River, called Margs by locals, has developed into a prestigious wine region and foodie destination. The Mediterranean climate, rich soil and cool sea breezes combine for ideal grape-growing conditions. Scores of vineyards draw visitors from near and far to this beautiful spot, bordered by towering karri trees.

Margaret River is located just inland of the rugged Indian Ocean coast in the state of Western Australia. The state is sparsely populated and vast. Western Australia covers nearly a third of the country. Its state capital of Perth, a three-hour drive northeast of Margaret River, is considered one of the most remote state capitals in the world.

The region was the traditional land of the Noongar people. The British settled the area in the mid-19^th century, developing it as a timber, agricultural and eventually viticultural region.

The town offers a lot more than premium cabernet sauvignons and chardonnays. It’s equally known for its surf breaks.  Surfers chase the waves here and compete in elite competitions. Margaret River even has its own museum dedicated to the sport, the WA Surf Gallery showcasing surfing memorabilia and vintage surfboards.

Landlubbers enjoy Margaret River’s public art along main street, bike trails and coastal hiking trails. A stretch of the gorgeous Cape to Cape Track meanders across the Margaret River region coast and through Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. Below ground is a spectacular complex of more than 100 limestone caves. The reward for an active day in Margaret River is a breathtaking sunset.

Margaret River offers traditional homes, modern farmhouses, ultra-modern gems, vineyard villas and beachy “Hamptons”-inspired estates with expansive indoor and outdoor spaces for entertaining. Some homes in the Margaret River bushland region offer a rare bonus—wildlife views of kangaroos and cockatoos.