A winemaker’s ultimate guide to Margaret River

It goes without saying that Howard Park Wines is a must-add to your list – the family-owned winery has maintained their ranking as a Top 5 Red Star Winery on the Halliday Wine Companion for 25 years. Not sure where to start with your tasting? Howard Park is well-known as the home of Western Australian sparkling, with méthode traditionnelle wines that compete with the finest around the world. The Jeté Sparkling Wine Flight is the perfect introduction – for just $30, you'll try six elegant pours showcasing varietals like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Glera. You can also complement your luxe experience in the architecturally awarded cellar door with a gourmet platter. Cheers!

If you like your vino served up with a hearty meal, pull up a chair at the Settlers Tavern. It may come across as a typical Aussie Country pub but don’t be fooled – they’re serious about their wine, and frequently get awarded Australia’s Wine List of the Year. There’s a great beer garden where you can enjoy your American barbecue or local line-caught catch of the day. Brekkie is covered at Margaret River Bakery, which you’ll smell before you see. Colourful cakes and sandwiches dot the display, but don’t go past one of the European-style pastries. Celebrating a special occasion? Book ahead at De’sendent which is Margaret River’s newest intimate and refined dining experience with renowned chef Evan Hayter.

You don’t need to travel far to feel like you’ve discovered an untouched stretch of Greek Island shores. Meelup Beach is consistently calm and iridescent – perfect for a relaxing dip. If you’re up for more of an adventure, take a swim at the equally-turquoise Smiths Beach and then meander through Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park on the walking tracks. Pack a bottle of Howard Park’s Jeté Premier Brut NV, and you’re good as gold (like your wine) for a sunset picnic.

Beat the glorious WA heat with a scoop of Mai Tardi Gelato. The pastel sage-hued gelateria on Margaret River’s main street produces 20 artisan flavours daily in store like Sicilian pistachio, biscottino with vanilla and cookie, and peanut choc caramel. Get your cone coated in the chocolate or pistachio fountains and don’t leave without trying one of the cannoli filled fresh to order. 

Olio Bello isn’t just an olive grove – it’s a destination in its own right. The 320-acre certified organic olive farm has an Italian pressing facility, Mediterranean café and restaurant, and a gourmet tasting room so you can get a taste (literally) of why the liquid gold is such a hot commodity right now. If the place wasn’t picturesque enough, there’s also luxury glamping bungalows along the Margaret River for a touch of luxe. 

Ready for a trip to the Margaret River region? Start your itinerary with Howard Park Wines here.