Voyager Estate white roses in the Margaret River region Australia

10 of the Best Wineries in the Margaret River Region in Western Australia

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Winery in the Margaret River Region in Western Australia with text overlay Winery in the Margaret River Region in Western Australia with text overlay Winery in the Margaret River Region in Western Australia with text overlay Winery in the Margaret River Region in Western Australia with text overlay

Indulge in incredible Australian wine and food in one of the most picturesque regions down under – read on for some of the best Margaret River wineries!

The Margaret River region in Western Australia is world-renowned for its delectable wine and food. The region produces less than 3 per cent of Australia’s wine, but accounts for more than a fifth of its premium wine according to Tourism Australia.

Amelia Park Margaret River Region

The climate of the Margaret River region creates the perfect conditions for vines to thrive during the growing and ripening period, and the region’s proximity to the Indian Ocean means that any intense summer heatwaves are tempered by the sea breeze.

Aravina Estate vineyards in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

There are more than 120 Margaret River wineries to explore and most of them will allow you to wander around to admire the beautiful grounds and taste their finest wine. Many also serve lunch and dinner so make sure you brace yourself for a day of gluttony!

Grapevines in Margaret River region in Western Australian

When there are so many vineyards to choose from, how do you narrow it down? Here are some wineries that I truly loved and would recommend to get your fill of delicious Australian wine and food. First things first…

How to get to the Margaret River wine region

Kangaroo road signs in Margaret River region

The Margaret Region is located 3 hours away from Perth in Western Australia. The entire Margaret River wine region starts from Busselton and Dunsborough in the north down to Augusta in the south. The closest international airport is in Perth: from Perth your best option is to rent a car (we have used Keddy by Europcar, Budget and Thrifty in the past) to make the drive down south.

Alternatively, if you are headed to the Margaret River region from the east coast of Australia, Jetstar operates direct domestic flights between Melbourne and Busselton 3 times a week. As of March 2024 there are also flights between Sydney and Busselton 3 times a week.

Driving in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

Remember, you drive on the left in Australia (the steering wheel is on the right). There are also a limited number of buses that you can take via South West Coast Lines. I’ve also heard good things about this shared airport shuttle service between Perth Airport and the Margaret River region, though it appears to only operate Monday to Friday, and not on the weekends.

Looking for the best prices for rental car companies around the world? Click here to book your rental car ahead of your trip. Bookings can be cancelled or amended if your plans change!

Wildflowers in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

If you don’t want to self-drive, get in touch with DBM Drivers, a locally-owned wine tour and airport transfer business. Their rates are extremely reasonable compared to other companies, and were very reliable when we used them for a one-way airport transfer. One-way airport transfers are approximately $400 for up to 7 people but this may go up during the peak travel season.

Is it possible to do a day trip to the Margaret River region from Perth? Yes, but be prepared for a long day of traveling. If you are planning on drinking, you’re better off spending a few nights in the region and exploring its pristine beaches, checking out the caves and Boranup Karri Forest, climbing the lighthouse at Cape Naturaliste or going whale watching along the coast. Only have a day or two to spare and need to stay close to Perth? You might want to consider visiting the Swan Valley wine region instead – it’s a short 30-minute drive away from Perth’s city centre.

Looking for another great day trip destination from Perth? Check out my guide to Rottnest Island!

How to get around the Margaret River region

Car driving through Boranup forest in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

Have a car? Great! Step 1: Find yourself a partner who understands your love of wine and is willing to miss out so that you can guzzle down that glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Alternatively, find a mate who is willing to be designated driver!

In Australia, it is an offence to drive while your blood alcohol concentration is 0.05 or above but there are exceptions where a 0 blood alcohol concentration applies.

If no one wants to be left out of the winery fun, then you will need to organize a tour and driver. Going on a winery tour is one of the most popular activities in Margaret River, and the good news is that there are plenty of tour operators in the region!

Here is a list of Margaret River winery tours, or get in touch with DBM Drivers – full day wine tours are $350-400 for up to 7 people.

There is no public transportation in this area, so you’ll have to organize some sort of private transportation by yourself.

Looking for other things to do and see in the Margaret River region? Click here for stunning Margaret River attractions that you must visit!

Looking for the best prices for rental car companies around the world? Click here to book your rental car ahead of your trip. Bookings can be cancelled or amended if your plans change!

Once you are in the area, public transport is pretty much non-existent and private tours and drivers are pricey, so the best way to get around is to self-drive. Parking is plentiful and Google Maps is very accurate – just stick to the speed limits and be alert when driving (especially at dawn and dusk) as kangaroos are known to jump into the middle of the street out of nowhere.

Looking for another great day trip destination from Perth? Check out my guide to Rottnest Island!

The best places to stay in the Margaret River region

Margaret River region Western Australia Yallingup

Accommodation prices tend to be higher in this area, with nightly rates reaching as much as AUD$300-500 during the peak season (December to February). To get bang for your buck, make sure you stay in a convenient and picturesque town so that you can explore more of the beaches and coast.

I would recommend staying in Dunsborough, Quindalup, Margaret River town, Yallingup, Eagle Bay or Bunker Bay. Here are some personal recommendations:

Melo Studios in Dunsborough: Perfect for couples or families with children and bang smack in the heart of Dunsborough town – you can walk to coffee shops, the grocery store, restaurants and even the beach. There are 2 ultra-luxe villas available – this 2-bedroom Caesia Studio or 2-bedroom Eucalypt Studio with kitchen, BBQ area and lounge. The Melo Studios are almost always fully booked during the peak season and holidays, so book early! Click here to see availability and rates at Melo Studios.

Dunsborough Hideaway: A cozy studio attached to a charming “French provincial” house, located a short 5-minute drive from Dunsborough town in a quiet residential neighborhood away from the hustle and bustle. There is a beautiful garden out front as well as a full kitchen if you feel like preparing your own meals. Elaine’s studio is often booked up months in advance, so check availability and book early.

Lakeside glamping at Olio Bello in Cowaramup in Margaret River region in Australia

Lakeside glamping at Olio Bello in Cowaramup: Perfect if you’re looking for something a little different. Olio Bello offers 6 stunning glamping tents about 10 minutes away from Margaret River town. The tents are luxurious and incredibly spacious, and are fantastic for couples looking to retreat into nature and experience some serious peace and quiet. Their on-site restaurant serves handmade pasta, but is only open for lunch at the moment. Click here to see rates and availability at Olio Bello!

Chambre Estate suite rooms in Margaret River in Australia

Chambré Estate in Margaret River town: For an immersive “Australian bush” experience, check into the luxurious Chambré Estate just a 5-minute drive from Margaret River town. The brand-new property offers cozy suites and multi-room cabins and kitchens for those traveling with friends and family, and certain suites have access to their stunning outdoor wood-fired hot tubs (just so you know, these may not be used when fire bans are in place, typically December to March). Click here to see rates and availability at Chambré Estate.

Looking for something else? Click here to find the best deals on accommodation in the Margaret River region!

The best wineries to visit in the Margaret River region

Voyager Estate in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

There are more than a hundred Margaret River wineries to choose from, and there’s just no way you can visit each and every one (unless there is, in which case I commend your tenacity!).

These 10 are some of the best wineries in Margaret River, and I’ve done the extremely “hard work” of trying all of them out so you know which ones are worth your time and money. Read on for some of the most beautiful wineries in Margaret River!

1. Vasse Felix

Vasse Felix restaurant in the Margaret River region Western Australia

Vasse Felix is considered one of the top wineries in Australia and offers everything from wine tasting to the full dining experience. It was established in 1967 and is sometimes known as the “founding wine estate” in the Margaret River region.

Vasse Felix in the Margaret River region in Western Australia vineyard

Their cuisine is a modern take on classic Australian dishes and the wine is delectable. My fave? The classic dry white.

2. Barnyard 1978

Barnyard 1978 is one of the best boutique Margaret River wineries and one of the tastiest lunch spots that will keep you coming back time and time again for their handmade pasta and gourmet wine. Their menu is seasonal using fresh produce so you will never get bored! The first vines were planted on site in 1978 – we love their SBS (Sauvignon Blanc Semillon) and SSB (Semillon Sauvignon Blanc).

They are also open for breakfast on Saturday/Sunday if you’re looking to line your stomach before your wine tour. Looking for the best winery in Margaret River for lunch? You can never go wrong with Barnyard!

We also love popping by for a coffee before a busy day, and this is a great place to pick up some gourmet Margaret River region gifts for loved ones back home – the honey from their in-house honey farm is delicious. Traveling with children in the Margaret River region? There is a small on-site playground and you can sometimes even see rabbits grazing on the grass between the rows of vineyards.

Ready to book your Margaret River region getaway? Here are some conveniently-located accommodation options to consider booking: Melo Studios in Dunsborough (perfectly stylish and cozy 2-bedroom villas right in the heart of town), Dunsborough Hideaway (a modern studio with kitchen a 5-minute drive away from Dunsborough town in a quiet residential area), Olio Bello in Cowaramup (lakeside glamping immersed in nature with an amazing attached restaurant) or Chambré Estate in Margaret River (luxe studios and cabins minutes away from the heart of Margaret River town). Click here to find the best deals on accommodation in the Margaret River region!

3. Aravina Estate

Aravina Estate has a stunning garden that wraps around their vineyards in Margaret River (180 acres of which about a third is under vine), and for some reason it is also home to a beautiful vintage sports car and motorcycle collection! This Margaret River winery is located in Yallingup, just a stone’s throw and short drive away from Dunsborough town.

Surf fanatics should also check out the surf gallery here for a display of local surf memorabilia – it showcases the rich surf history in the southwest region.

Surf gallery at the Aravina Estate in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

If you’re a fan of sparkling wine, try their sparkling chenin blanc. On a warm summer’s day they also offer pizza fresh out of the oven, live music and picnic throws so that you can lounge on their lush and perfectly-manicured front lawn – the perfect lazy Margaret River region day.

Margaret River weather: don’t forget, Australia’s summer season runs from December to February! The Margaret River region can be bitterly cold during the winter months from June to August.

4. Voyager Estate

Rose garden at Voyager Estate in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

Voyager Estate is probably the most beautiful working vineyard you will ever see in your life and one of the absolute best wineries in Margaret River – you can’t go wrong with their signature Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. The beautiful estate is covered with rose gardens and lush vineyards.

Voyager Estate in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

Don’t be surprised when you see rows and rows of vine, each with a bright red or crisp white rose bush at the end of the row. Apparently, roses are able to show signs of pests and disease more quickly than vines, therefore acting as a warning system.

Cape Dutch manor house at Voyager Estate in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

There is a small fee for tastings, but the fee is redeemable against product. Take the time to explore the estate grounds and iconic Cape Dutch manor house – this is one of the top Margaret River vineyards to explore on a sunny afternoon.

5. Flutes

Flutes Winery in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

Flutes is an award-winning winery with a stunning view overlooking Wilyabrup Brook on the winding Caves Road. The gorgeous dining room is perfect for special occasions – come here to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries!

In my opinion, it’s one of the best wineries in Margaret River for lunch – come here for a delicious meal and try the Brookland Valley Sauvignon Blanc.

Ready to book your getaway to the Margaret River region? Here are some highly-rated accommodation options to check out: Melo Studios in Dunsborough (lovely 2-bedroom villas right in the heart of town – within walking distance of many shops and restaurants), Dunsborough Hideaway (a quiet and modern, brightly-lit 1-bedroom studio with a kitchen a quick drive away from Dunsborough town), Olio Bello in nearby Cowaramup (lakeside glamping tents for a unique, nature-filled stay) or Chambré Estate in Margaret River (luxe studios and cottages surrounded by peaceful bushland). Click here to find the best deals on accommodation in the Margaret River region! Tip: stay in Dunsborough, Yallingup or Margaret River (town)! Need some flexibility? Double check the cancellation policy – most places offer free cancellation.

6. Wills Domain

Wills Domain vineyard in the Margaret River region in Australia

Wills Domain is a family-owned winery and has an incredibly relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. It offers fine dining with seasonal produce from the region and has won awards for its Shiraz and Cabernet Merlot. It’s also a perfect coffee spot, and even offers the perfect photo spot that frames the rolling hills and vineyard across Gunyulgup Valley perfectly.

Related article: Read this if you’re looking for even more wine regions around the world that will spark your wanderlust!

7. Amelia Park

Amelia Park winery in the Margaret River region in Western Australia

Amelia Park is one of the best places to go for a fine dining experience in the Margaret River region. Its dining room is exquisite and is the perfect place for special occasions.

Its cellar door is just adjacent to the restaurant and offers wine flights paired with cheese and charcuterie plates. If you’re looking for picturesque vineyards in Margaret River this is the place to be.

8. Leeuwin Estate

Leeuwin Estate in the Margaret River Region main building
Photo credit: Leeuwin Estate

You can’t really write an article about Margaret River wineries without mentioning this particular institution that dates back to 1973: Leeuwin Estate is one of the most well known Margaret River wineries, and is famous for its award-winning “Art Series” Chardonnay.

In addition to an on-site restaurant and tasting facilities, it also hosts concerts from time to time with artists such as Diana Krall, Sting and James Taylor.

9. Swings & Roundabouts

There’s a reason why Swings & Roundabouts is always packed, especially during the weekends and school holidays – it’s one of the best Margaret River wineries for families traveling with kids! Come here for the wine, stay for the incredible view and live music.

The children will love the huge outdoor playground – it will keep them entertained for hours while the parents can pop over to the cellar door for a cheeky wine tasting. The Cabernet Merlot and SBS (Sauvignon Blanc Semillon) are particularly popular.

Pizza at Swings and Roundabouts in Margaret River region in Australia

Swings & Roundabouts has a large café and outdoor seating area with an extensive menu, so it’s a great option for a hearty lunch – the wood-fired pizza is a no-brainer. The picturesque view of the sweeping Margaret River landscape from their outdoor terrace is also to die for.

10. Windows Estate

Windows Estate Margaret River region

Windows Estate is a small family-owned boutique winery in Yallingup and one of the best small wineries in Margaret River. The last time we visited, there was no restaurant but the tasting facilities are fantastic – they offer a range of both reds and whites including Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and more. There’s also an outdoor playground area and deck if you are traveling with family and young children.

Have some time on your hands? Sign up for an exclusive tour of the Windows Estate certified organic vineyard with one of their founders.

Ready for your trip to the Margaret River region? I recommend staying in Dunsborough, Quindalup, Margaret River town, Yallingup, Eagle Bay or Bunker Bay.

Melo Studios in Dunsborough is perfect for couples or families with children looking for a stylish and boutique stay. Click here to see availability and rates at Melo Studios.

Dunsborough Hideaway is ideal for couples or families looking for some solitude away from the hustle and bustle without losing the convenience of being close to town. Check availability and book early – especially if you are planning a visit during long weekends and holidays.

Lakeside glamping at Olio Bello in Cowaramup is perfect if you’re looking for something a little different and want to retreat into nature without sacrificing any creature comforts. Click here to see rates and availability at Olio Bello!

Chambré Estate in Margaret River town for a peaceful and luxurious stay in the Australian bushland. The brand-new property offers cozy suites and 2 or 3-bedroom cabins for those traveling with friends and family. Click here to see rates and availability at Chambré Estate!

Bonus!

If you’re a longtime reader you’ll know that I’m all about handing out bonus recommendations, so here we go! If these Margaret River region wineries weren’t enough to keep you busy, you’ll also love Gabriel Chocolate and Bettenay’s if you have a sweet tooth or are looking for some great edible souvenirs for friends & family back home.

Gabriel Chocolate is Western Australia’s first bean-to-bar chocolate makers and Bettenay’s offers an amazing selection of handmade nougat bars. Looking for something less sweet? Head to Olio Bello or Eagle Bay Olives to pick up a few bottles of their handcrafted olive oils.

Margaret River vineyards

These 10 wineries only scratch the surface of fantastic vineyards to visit in the Margaret River region, but it’s a great place to start if you’re short on time! Click here for even more things to do in Margaret River!

Have you visited the Margaret River region? What are your tips to travelers visiting the area and what are some of your favourite wineries?

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50 Comments

  1. I’ve actually never tried Australian wine but am a huge wine lover. One of my dreams is to go to all the big areas of the world and see vineyards. Would love to visit some of these.

  2. Oooh love your bonus about Gabriel Chocolate… I might go and visit and taste sometime soon 🙂 The Margaret River Region looks absolutely gorgeous!

  3. I love visiting wineries. Those on your list look just gorgeous. Especially I liked what you were saying about Voyager Estate. If I ever would go back to Australia, this would be a great trip to make. Thanks for sharing!

  4. These are some great and picturesque vineyards and wineries. The Margaret river region seems to be a haven for wine and vineyards. Though all of them look irresistible, I was bowled over by Aravina Estate, it looks straight out of a fairytale. Another fascinating point is that it has a collection of vintage cars and motorcyles which make it so fascinating.

  5. I just got into wine so, this is great! The pictures are fantastic! I’m a little shocked to see that Australia is an up and coming wine region. I would think that the wine is a little acidic?

    1. Australia’s been a massive wine region for ages! 🙂 It has a long history of winemaking – I hope you get to visit soon, I think you’d really enjoy the wine tours!

  6. We love the vineyard that looks over the sea. It’s very scenic. We’ve never visited a vineyard/winery before, but it would be really great to order some of the finest wines (sweet, of course) and pair it with cheese. Barnyard 1978 will probably be our first stop because it serves delicious food! Hehehe!

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