The home of the Wadandi (Saltwater) People, better known as the Margaret River region, has supported the traditional owners of the land for over 50,000 years. Today, it has such strong cultural roots and connection between humans and the land. It is hard not to be engulfed by its beauty, whether you are a local or have been drawn there like so many people from across the continent, and indeed, the other side of the world.
The Margaret River is an oasis nestled in amongst state forests and national parks. Lush green hills flank the townships in the region that meets beaches and surf breaks; right now, you might even be lucky enough to spot a whale as they migrate through until November. Stretching over 130km from top to bottom, this unique region is home to many distilleries, breweries and wineries. Thanks to its incredibly rich soil, the fresh produce makes it the perfect spot for indulging in fine food and beverages.
We begin our road trip in Busselton to stop off for a splash with nature in the brilliant aquamarine waters of Geographe Bay. Unwind with your dearest, bring the kids or bring along elderly family members to create memories – with its long stretches of sand, this is the destination you’ve been dreaming of for your beach holiday. With its iconic 1.8km jetty and delicious locally caught fish and chips, it might even be an ideal spot to stay forever if it weren’t for the short 25 minute drive west to Dunsborough.
The towns of Dunsborough and Yallingup offer stunning coastal hinterland and priceless views. If you can though, we recommend that you pull yourself away from the pristine waters as the area is bustling with eateries, wineries and breweries. It’s also home to the unmissable architectural building and vineyards of Black Brewing Co. and Dune Distilling Co. You can spend time exploring or even stay a while to eat, drink and soak up the stunning surroundings. A day spent sipping gin over-looking the water and vineyard sounds like total bliss if you ask us!
Roughly 20 minutes south you’ll find yourself at the famous Margaret River where farmers, winemakers, surfers and artists all call home. This is the pièce de résistance in your road trip, so carve out plenty of time. In this sacred place you’re surrounded by towering treetops, vast ocean, rocky escarpments and breathtaking views. Enjoy the scenery on two wheels, four wheels, or no wheels and don’t forget to take a piece of the region home with you from the abundant array of craft makers and producers.
At the southern end of our road trip is the town of Augusta, where rivers and inlets meet the bay that leads to the point where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet. This is the ideal place to explore a river or whale watch. It’s also the home to the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse located at the most south-westerly point of Australia, on the tip of the peninsula.
It’s easy to see why Dune Distilling Co. are so proud to call the region home, why they are so passionate about building themselves up by supporting what the local people and land offer when nature’s finest is just at their doorstep.
