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Australias Margaret River Wine Region
Looking for a vacation destination that is off the beaten bath? Perhaps you hunger for something unique. Well, add Western Australia to your bucket list. According to Lonely Planet this is one of the top 10 regions to visit for 2010. The Margaret River Wine Region is largely the product of a very successful experiment that began in the late 1960s. It was at this time that the first significant planting of vines occurred. Chosen for it’s perfect Mediterranean climate The Margaret River Wine Region now produces 20 percent of today’s premium wine market. With more than 200 grape growers in the region it is a wine lover’s paradise.
However don’t let the name fool you. Located off the coast of the Indian Ocean Margaret River is known for a lot more than just wine. Locals and regulars are well aware of the beautiful beaches for all sorts of water sports and diversions that include surfing, snorkeling and whale watching. Besides this there are many ways to enjoy nature such as limestone caves, nature trails, wildflowers, horse riding, mountain biking, rock climbing, bush walking, you can even get up close and personal with the kangaroos.
If you just want to relax and well, eat. You’ve picked the right place. There are award winning restaurants and cafes all over the region. Chef’s from around the world make use of plentiful local produce, seafood, olive oil, cheeses, venison, beef and vegetables. Not to mention handmade chocolates. Whether it’s a picnic among the wildflowers or a first class eating experience paired with your favorite wine. You will not be disappointed.
Wondering when to make your getaway? Most activities are open year round however do your homework if you have specific adventures in mind. For example, whale watching can be done from June to September. Flinder’s Bay in Augusta is the first stop for many whales that make the long trip from Antarctica to the Margaret River Region. From September to December Geographe Bay is the perfect place to spot endangered Blue Whales. Though wildflowers and orchids are on display all year round, guided wildflower tours are only available September 11th – November 12th.
If you’ve been dying to try some of the most high quality surf anywhere in the world then experience the biggest swells in winter and spring. Also, party goers shouldn’t miss the Annual Margaret River Wine Region Festival March 17th – 21st. Here you can find your favorite diversions all in one place, wine, food, music and art. So, while the region welcomes tourists all year long be sure to investigate times and seasons for your favorite hobbies and sports.
It is rare to find so much variety in one place. Come alone or bring the family there is literally something for everyone in the Margaret River Wine Region. Write it on your bucket list and book your vacation today.
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The Margaret River Wine Region Western Australia
At the southern most tip of the grand continent and country of Australia is the gorgeous Margaret River Wine Region. The lush region is home to over 60 sprawling wineries, hundreds of delicious restaurants, and entertainment for the whole family. Margaret River Wine Region is predominately boutique wineries producing only one percent of the countries wine, however the region produces over 15 percent of Australia’s premium wine. Wineries use anywhere from 2.5 tons of grapes to 7000 tons of grapes. The boutique wineries are able to control the quality of their wine better than the larger commercial wineries found in other part of Australia. Many of the wineries offer free or reasonable pricing on their delectable wine tastings. The vineyards are the main attraction in this historical surfing area but they are not the only side to this beautiful region.
Among the luxurious and delightful wineries are the great restaurants for all appetites. Cuisines range from fresh fish caught right off shore to the italian and even native Australian food. Restaurants are mostly casual but there are plenty of fancier establishment for a romantic evening overlooking the green wine region or the powerful ocean. Local restaurants serve wine from around to region, giving guest another opportunity to try a new type or winery while at dinner as well. After a warm meal, gaze at the beauty of the region around you with a glass of rich desert wine or liquor from the Margaret River Wine Region.
Yes, that is right throughout Margaret River are distilleries of all types of alcohol. Most are smaller brands, that rarely leave the country for as an export but they all offering tasting and many have tours for the interested guests. Unlike the wineries the distilleries are fully operational throughout the year, therefore tours and purchasing can be done at any time. Scattered around the distilleries and wineries are unique specialty producers including sweet chocolate houses, fudge, and ice cream factories. As with the distilleries they offer an insiders view on the making of their sweets from start to finish.
For the more adventurous tourist, Margaret Wine Region boasts majestic hills and cliffs for hiking, rock climbing, and extreme bike riding. It is suggested visitors consult or hire a guide to travel on the beaten trails due to changing landscape and wildlife found in the area. Heading down to the shore, massive waves pound the shore year around creating a surfers paradise. Locals are usually surfing the waves and visitors are welcomed to join in on the fun or bask in the sun on the gorgeous beaches which line the coast.
The Margaret Wine Region is only a short jog from the city of perth, folks can travel by bus, train, plain, or personal vehicle to the gorgeous region. Traveling through the region there are hotels, bed and breakfasts, and select wineries have accommodations for guests. When visiting Australia, the wineries, distilleries, sweet factories, and fining dining found in the Margaret Wine Region are a must.