by Yvette Peverell
After completing Coastrek Margaret River - blisters, sea spray, and all - I can confidently say there’s no better reward than sinking into the region’s gourmet delights and relaxed coastal charm. The trail is breathtaking, but so is what comes after: the chance to slow down, indulge, and soak up everything this incredible corner of WA has to offer.
First up – Event Day tips:
Let’s start with the business end of things. My tips to get the best out of Coastrek Margaret River event day consist of the ‘4 S’s’ – shoes, snacks, sand and scenery:
Shoes – the route is a tricky one, with gnarly rock formations and potential trip hazards underfoot. I highly rate wearing hiking boots with ankle support, so you’re fully equipped for all terrains – including some rock scrambling and a healthy dose of sand (see below ?).
Snacks – while the Luv Stops provide ample sustenance, if you take some easy snacks to enjoy along the way, there are so many beautiful spots to stop, eat and enjoy the view – and you’re likely to have it all to yourselves! This is us on Bunker Bay enjoying an impromptu snack with a million-dollar backdrop. Think vegemite wraps (not sandwiches) which can slide into small spaces (and not get squished) for a salty fix, carrot and celery sticks, and some lollies for a sweet boost.
Sand – yep there’s sand and lots of it. Don’t let it daunt you – take one step at a time and enjoy the shared challenge as everyone around you is finding it hard too! This is where shoes come in – ankle height to keep sand at bay, or if you don’t have ankle height boots, gators are a must, plus an extra pair of socks if those pesky grains manage to penetrate your sole (and soul!).
Scenery – oh the glorious scenery! ‘Tis the season, so make sure you look up and smell the wildflowers. They are in abundance, and amongst the heart pumping challenges make sure you soak up the magnificent views at Cape Naturaliste, the world-class stretch of beach at Bunker Bay, and the deep red rock against azure blue seas you’ll find along the way, most notably at Sugarloaf and Three Bears surf break.
Time to Treat Yourself
Once you’ve smashed the Coastrek Margaret River challenge, it’s time to reward yourself. Here’s my recommendations for best ways to unwind, indulge, and soak up the best of this gourmet food and wine region:
Casual Dining
You’re going to want something easy on Friday night after the trek – minimal thinking involved. In Dunsborough, Occy’s is a local institution offering relaxed dining under the stars. In case you’re wondering, yes it’s named after Mark "Occy" Occhilupo by the owner-brewer Bill Annear, who is a big fan of surfing.
Or head to the Margaret River Brewhouse for casual share plates, and a welcoming, outdoor space. Try the cheeseburger roti – yes you read that right – it’s exactly what you’re indulgence seeking body will relish!
Wineries and a long lunch
HOT TIP: Book in advance. With over a thousand trekkers descending on the region, you’ll want to get in early!
The Margaret River Region is home to more than 150 wine producers and 100 cellar doors, and produces more than 20 per cent of Australia’s premium wine. Some of the original wineries still in operation today include Vasse Felix, Leeuwin Estate, Cullen Wines, Moss Wood Wines and Cape Mentelle, all with superb restaurants attached.
You can’t really go wrong, but we chose Cullens Wines for our long lunch. Take me back!:
Sunday Brunch and Salty Swims
The ultimate swansong to a good weekend away – the Sunday brunch.
It’s whale watching season in October and Augusta is a prime spot for some action. The Colourpatch Café is perched atop the whale highway below and both the menu and location will leave you with an indelible impression of your time in the region. A visit to Augusta will allow to explore some of the other spectacular beaches you wouldn’t have seen on the Coastrek trail including Hamelin Bay, Redgate and Prevelly.
Likewise, the Meelup Farmhouse is a gorgeous experience. Home to an adorable family of farm animals, you can share a moment with silkie chooks, a gaggle of geese, a family of alpacas, beautiful highland cows, Lizzie and Sir Raymond, and a pair of cheeky twin goats. The Farmhouse are also home to Mila, the beloved chocolate labrador, who roams the grounds freely, making friends wherever she goes.
We followed up our Meelup Farmhouse brunch with a visit to Meelup Beach – we had trekked her sands but this time we just swam in her blissful waters (slightly chilly, but blissful all the same)...
The options are endless to indulge and explore in this stunning region. Check out www.margaretriver.com for more ideas on how to get the most out of your stay.
Tempted to take on Coastrek Margaret River? Sign up here
