Top Three Reasons to Visit Margaret River

Already been to the Sydney Opera House? Visited the State Parliament House in Melbourne? Or seen the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns?

Luckily for you, Australia has many more must-see destinations to offer. Case in point: West Australia’s Margaret River, a seemingly quaint town which promises many great activities for tourists to enjoy. What are the top three things you should do on your visit?

Wine Tours

Australia is fast becoming a powerhouse in the wine-making industry, thanks in large part to Margaret River’s famed wineries. As the leading wine region in the country, the area produces many world-class vintages, from sparkling whites to brooding reds, along with other beverages like liqueurs and ciders. A wine tour of the many vineyards in Margaret River will surely be a wine enthusiast’s dream come true.

Catch the Waves

There’s a reason why the surf film Drift was shot in Margaret River—it boasts some of the best beaches and waves in all of Australia. In fact, the area also hosts many prestigious surfing competitions, like the Margaret River Pro. If you want to practice your hang fives, this is the place to go.

Cave Excursions

Did you know that honeymooners once camped inside the Ngilgi Cave? Such is the beauty of this cavern that even today, tourists from all other country—and around the world—book excursions into it.

Tasting Room Etiquette

Wine tasting sessions are often the highlight of visits to Australia’s wine growing regions, such as Margaret River. While such events might sound like nothing more than an excuse to get inebriated on high quality wine, there is a certain etiquette that is followed in the wine tasting room, as is with most other aspects of high culture.

First, there is the manner of dress, which should be appropriate for such a sophisticated outing. Participants should dress in comfortable, casually, yet elegant clothing respectful of the winery’s standing. Strong perfume should be avoided. Strong scents overwhelm the aromas in the wine and can ruin the experience for everyone involved.

Second, there is the mode of conduct. Despite alcohol being the theme of the evening, wine tasting events are generally meant to be more relaxed and conversational in nature. Loud banter and rowdiness are atonal with the intended atmosphere and should be avoided.

Third, there is the observance of proper wine tasting technique, which, as the name suggests, should be more about tasting than consuming. The wine is first aerated by swirling it in the glass so that it gives off its bouquet of aromas. It is customary to inhale deeply before taking a sip, and thereafter, to swirl the wine in your mouth to coat all surfaces of the mouth.

Finally, there is the exercise of moderation. The goal is not to get inebriated, and participants are expected to take advantage of the provided spittoons for precisely this purpose.