Spotlight On: Redgate Forest Retreat | The Margaret River Region

Everyone loves a good trip down south with the family, especially to the beautiful Margaret River Region which is home to some of the most spectacular scenes of nature, world class wineries, and cosy retreats.

However, accessing this region as a wheelchair user can sometimes be a little challenging: that’s why I was stoked when the Margaret River Region reached out and asked whether I’d be interested in spending a weekend in one of the newly renovated accessible chalets at Redgate Forest Retreat.

Thanks to these new renovations, two of the retreat’s chalets have totally accessible footprints, taking the hassle out of organising accommodation. Situated on a stunning 167-acre property, with 50-acres of native forest to explore for those who are mobile enough, the Wongin and Kanana chalets are the place to stay. Featuring a fully accessible bathroom with a shower bench and roll under sink, a spacious wheelchair-friendly bedroom, and rolling access to a huge front garden and backyard BBQ space, this place is a wheelchair user’s dream. Let me tell you, it’s awesome.

Other accessible attractions in the area include the ‘Access for All’ section of the Cape to Cape, where upgrades to the section between Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Sugarloaf Rock car park means that stunning views of the Cape to Cape can be enjoyed by all. The 3.7km section easily caters to wheelchair users, those with limited mobility, and parents with prams, and there are also accessible toilets at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse complex and Sugarloaf car park.

The fun at Amaze’n is also a go, with all paths having been designed for easy pram and wheelchair access – so be sure to check out the giant 25-year-old hedge maze and the adjoining five hectares of landscaped gardens, which thrive with native birds and butterflies. Then there are the wineries that the Margaret River Region is famous for. There are obviously quite a number but Voyager Estate and Redgate Wines are both accessible and just a short drive away from Redgate Forest Retreat. Both wineries are family owned and situated on stunning properties.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in Margaret River and taking the time to relax at Redgate Forest Retreat. I hope that these tips will help other wheelchair users in WA to plan a trip that is just as successful.