NOW EXPERIENCING:An unbeatable 24 hours in Margaret River, Western Australia’s premier wine region
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An unbeatable 24 hours in Margaret River, Western Australia’s premier wine region

Read time 5 Mins

Posted 09 Mar 2023

By
Madeleine Horrigan

Make the most of a day out in Margaret River.

Margaret River has made a name for itself as a slice of heaven for all things food, wine, beer and nature. From its world-famous wineries to stunning beaches and tasty local eateries, Western Australia’s most famous wine region has proven itself to be far more than an isolated outpost. Visitors are spoilt for choice here when it comes to wineries, restaurants and coastal escapes, so, with that in mind, we’ve pulled together a 24-hour itinerary with a few of our favourites for those who want to get the most out of a day in the region.
Breakfast at the WEST Coffee Co Espresso Bar
Start the day at WEST Coffee CoJumpstart your morning with the best coffee in town at the WEST Coffee Co Espresso Bar. Tucked on the outskirts of Margaret River township, WEST was founded in 2019 by Jorja Webb, who turned a casual barista job and passion for specialty coffee into a local hub for coffee lovers. It’s not just the expertly prepared espresso that has locals and tourists queuing for their daily fix ‒ the enticing  brekkie menu alone makes a visit to WEST worthwhile. Choose from a selection of freshly baked muffins and pastries, or order from their short and simple menu, which features all the classics – granola with fresh fruit, a thick slice of sourdough toast topped with scrambled eggs or chunky smashed avo with feta.
Contos Beach and hikeWith bellies full and a gentle caffeine buzz going, you’re ready for the next stop of the day: Contos Beach. Just a 30-minute drive south-west of Margaret River, this extremely scenic strip of coastline is imbued with a magical sense of remoteness and rugged beauty. Jewel-blue water and fine white sands extend from a crescent-moon coast, lined with towering limestone slopes and wild native scrub. Its relative isolation means you may have the beach to yourself, which on calm summer days is ideal for swimming and rockpool exploration. Walking tracks can be found above the beach, winding along the cliffs, and are perfect for hiking and cycling in the cooler months.
Contos beach and hike near the Margaret River wine region
Best lunch at the Leeuwin Estate
Lunch at Leeuwin EstateHiking around stunning coastline can be pretty hungry work. Fortunately, next on the itinerary is lunch and a wine tasting at Leeuwin Estate’s award-winning restaurant (you’ve earned it). With sweeping verandahs, the restaurant overlooks a meadow surrounded by a forest of majestic karri trees. The menu changes with the seasons in accordance with chef Dan Gedge’s vision, combining exceptional produce with an emphasis on flavour, texture and aromas. Diners have the choice between a three-course and six-course seasonal menu, with the option to taste current and museum release wines from the Leeuwin Estate range.
BeerfarmNext on our exploration of Margaret River is a guided tour and tasting at Beerfarm, a brewery with a commitment to a more sustainable future. Welcomed by the Beerfarm team with a fresh brew on arrival, the tour takes you around the farm and production facilities to learn all about the brewing process, as well as the farm’s history, sustainable practices and raising Black Angus cattle. Complete your ‘exbeerience’ by sharing a tasting paddle of four refreshing beers ranging from refreshing lagers to complex IPAs and sours packed full of rescued fruit to help reduce food waste and support Aussie farmers. If beer isn’t your thing, they also make a mean cider packed with local Manjimup apples.
Tour and tasting at Beerfarm
Best pizza at Pizzica, Margaret River
Slices at PizzicaNestled on the outskirts of the Margaret River township, Pizzica is possibly the cutest pizza place you’ve laid eyes on. Originally from Leverano, a small town on the heel of Italy, owners Ivan and Anna bring traditional southern Italian cuisine to the Australian bush with their woodfired pizzas and charcoal grill. Step inside and you'll feel like you’re at nonna’s house, with charmingly kitsch red-and-white chequered placemats, antique wine racks and rustic communal tables ideal for sharing a few slices. The menu is a pizza-lover’s dream, packed with all the classics as well as a few more adventurous offerings ‒ hello cacio e pepe! Made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and cooked to perfection over a blazing hot wood fire, these pies are so good they may ruin you for all other pizzas. Round out the meal with some lush antipasti and refreshing amari cocktail ‒ it’s simply perfetto!
After more intel on Margaret River? Check out our Margaret River Guide for everything you need to know about this fabulous wine region, including the low-down on the best wines, food and cellar doors.
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Authour image
Madeleine HorriganMadeleine Horrigan is a Melbourne-based writer and all-round drinks enthusiast. When her nose isn't in a glass, it's in a travel guide planning her next adventure in a wine region.
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Vine GuideWineWine RegionsMargaret RiverFood pairingsWineryVine GuideRed WineWhite WineTravel
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