Margaret River

About Margaret River

Established as a townsite in 1913, Margaret River lies in the far southwest of Western Australia, wrapped by tall karri forest, limestone caves and world-class surf breaks. Commercial viticulture arrived relatively late, in the late 1960s, but the region's mild maritime climate and gravelly, free-draining soils quickly proved ideal for fine wine. Today Margaret River is one of Australia's most prestigious regions, producing a disproportionate share of the country's premium bottles from a modest planted area. It is best known for structured, ageworthy Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet blends, and for some of the Southern Hemisphere's finest Chardonnay, with pioneering estates such as Cullen and Leeuwin Estate setting the standard. The town itself is a relaxed gourmet hub, pairing cellar doors with beaches, breweries, cheese and chocolate makers.

Practical details

Wine tourism notes

Though it produces only a small share of Australia's wine, Margaret River punches far above its weight, making a large proportion of the country's premium wine. Its maritime, gravel-and-loam terroir is prized for structured Cabernet Sauvignon and benchmark Chardonnay.

Regional cuisine

Margaret River is a gourmet destination in its own right — grass-fed beef and Wagyu, fresh crayfish and marron, local cheese, olive oil, chocolate and venison, all designed around the region's Cabernet and Chardonnay.

Canonical attractions

• the surf breaks and beaches from Prevelly to Yallingup
• the region's limestone caves such as Mammoth and Lake Cave
• the Cape-to-Cape coastal walk
• the dense cluster of premium cellar doors along Caves Road

Editorial notes