As I mentioned before, Margaret River is the name of a famous wine region about three hours’ drive south from Perth but the area takes its name from the river and associated town of the same name.
You’ll find all the places below on my Google map.
After I checked out of my Dunsborough AirBnB, my friend Karen and I rented a nice place for the weekend, just outside the town of Margaret River which is in the southern part of the wine region.
From the veranda we had a view of the sea in the distance while the Margaret River itself flowed past us down in the valley below. Video here.
It’s a magical spot, especially at night when all the stars are out.
In the mornings we drove the short distance to the sea…
…and ate breakfast here.
White Elephant Cafe (High Elementary B+), Gnarabup Rd, www.whiteelephantcafe.com.au
This café is in prime position overlooking Gnarabup Beach. It’s very popular so you may have to queue for a short while. The food is worth the wait though.
Surfer’s Point at the end of Gnarabup Beach is a famous surf spot.
However on the day we went there was a swimming competition going on in the sea. Videos here and here. It made me feel healthier just watching them!
I’m told the hat made me look very ‘ocker‘!
In the evening we went into town…
Morries Anytime (Intermediate A-), 2/149 Bussell Hwy, www.morries.com.au
This is a great little spot in Margaret River itself. I was too busy chatting with Karen to grade anything but we both agreed that the food, the wine and the service were all really good.
We had the Pork Belly and the Grilled Haloumi to start…
…followed by the Chorizo and the Burger Board (in order of preference; beef, prawn and chicken).
With two glasses of SBS and an extra Rosily Grenache Shiraz and a Negroni for me, the bill came to a paltry (by our standards) A$112.
The minus grade was due to the live jazz combo who made it a bit difficult to have a conversation, but otherwise this is a great spot.
From here we drove south to take in the Boranup Forest, videos here and here, and Hamelin Bay here, which is famous as a breeding ground for stingrays, although not on the day we went.
Even more good food next…