Last Updated on October 24, 2023 by Home in the World
Despite having been born and raised in Perth, I am embarrassed to say I had never been to this popular south-west region prior to this trip (it’s a 3-hour drive each way). So my friends and I decided to put this right and go for the day. Many people of course spend several days down here, primarily in the main town of Margaret River, which boasts a wide range of accommodation options, gourmet dining and world-class beaches. I therefore barely scratched the surface in my few hours there, but got a taste for the area nonetheless.
The drive down passes through some of Western Australia’s dairy country, where the open landscapes of green fields and blue skies are often dotted with herds of black and white cows. One of the towns on the way, aptly but coincidentally named Cowaramup, is indeed famous for its cow-themed attractions. Sadly, we didn’t have time to stop, as we were on a mission to reach our first destination: Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in Augusta.
Constructed from local limestone in 1895 and still in operation today, the striking white lighthouse stands proudly as the tallest of its kind on the Australian mainland, soaring up 39 m (128 ft). As we made our way up the exposed path to meet it, the surrounding shrubland rustling in the strong spring breeze, it felt like we were walking to the end of the earth. And we kind of were. Because the lighthouse sits at the far tip of Cape Leeuwin, the most south-westerly point of mainland Australia, and the unique point where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet.
You can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the panoramic views of the two oceans and sweeping coastal landscape, but, as we were pushed for time, we just stuck to the ground-level boardwalk, which was just as spectacular.
Having spent the morning soaking up the fresh air and ozone at Augusta, it was time to head back up towards Margaret River itself to indulge in something the region is best known for – world-class wine and dining. Its approx. 215 wineries grow respected varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, and the area also hosts the final stage of the Gourmet Escape food and wine festival held every November, attracting some of the planet’s most renowned culinary connoisseurs. So it’s basically heaven for foodies who appreciate exquisite, fresh, locally sourced produce and premium drops.
With so many wineries and so much quality to choose from, it was difficult to decide where to stop for our long, lazy lunch. In the end we opted for Leeuwin Estate, and were not disappointed. Sitting on the outdoor deck area overlooking the lush, manicured garden, it was the perfect place to enjoy a delicious seafood meal and Riesling.
By the time we rolled out of the estate, the sun was already beginning to set, and we still had a 3-hour drive ahead of us. All in all, it had been a lovely day and I could certainly see why this region has always been such a popular holiday destination for locals and foreigners alike. I am fortunate to have it virtually in my backyard, and next time I will no doubt spend longer there to further indulge in all its culinary and scenic wonders.
Trip facts
When I visited: October 2012
Weather: Visiting in the spring (October), as we did, was lovely (approx. 25°C/77°F), though weather can be fickle, especially in the south-west. In general, October to April (spring/summer) is a recommended time to visit. The Australian winter down there (from approx. June-Sept) is likely to be cool and rainy, though it can also have some stunning clear, crisp days.