Here are eight unmissable luxurious experiences to try in Margaret River Region before the end of winter.
With the arrival of August it means that this year’s wintry days are limited.
That’s right, the clock is ticking and time is running out for woolly jumpers, rainy afternoon naps and evenings spent by the fireplace with a glass of warming red wine. If your dream destination includes beach views, delicious food, a little hands on learning of new skills and plenty of luxury; here are eight unmissable luxurious experiences not to miss out on before spring is on the doorstep.
Private Properties has some of the most luxurious options when it comes to choosing a place to rest your head. Go all out and take your pick from one of their ‘Prestige Collection’ options. La Forêt Enchantée is just a few minutes’ drive from the town of Margaret River and is resplendent with French and Italian inspired gardens and furnishings, each villa complete with an outdoor bath and fireplace. Oceanside views more your thing? Try Injidup Bay House in Yallingup, filled with uninterrupted views of the sapphire blue Indian ocean, as well as an infinity lap pool, and hidden poker room and wine cellar. James Bond attire optional. Eagle Bay also has spectacular seascapes, and Jahangir is the jewel in the crown when it comes to luxe stays. Of course there is an infinity pool, but for the winter months you can warm up in the sauna or chill out in the home cinema if the ocean views get too tiresome.
For those that like to learn about their wine in style and in the finest of surrounds, head straight to Howard Park’s elegant Wine Chapel. Yes, here in Margaret River wine is very much a religion. Every piece of the décor is hand-picked to share the story of Howard Park Wines, so you’ll be fully immersed as you work your way through a private wine tasting and gourmet platter. Alternatively, enjoy a flight of Howard Park’s sparkling wines – ideal for those that associate bubbles with indulgence. Be sure to look up as the chandeliers in the main room are hand crafted from 40 year old vines from the estate’s Abercrombie vineyard. You can also choose to dine here with a private chef and perfectly matched wines. Choose from marron and native foods or a seafood lovers delight – both are bound to whet the appetite and provide a wining and dining memory to treasure.
Step up to the plate…the hot plate that is! You may be familiar with Cape Lodge and Chef Tony Howell’s cooking demonstrations, but you can now roll your sleeves up and get in the mix with a private cooking class from 2-10 people. A hands on experience, you’ll not be sitting back and taking notes. Instead, learn from one of the region’s top chefs and be proud as punch that the meal on the table at the end of class is one created by your very own talent. You’ll walk away with new found skills and tips, and enjoy a feast matched with Cape Lodge wines once the cooking is completed.
‘Tis the season to be jolly. Well, that is if you are a fan of truffles. Otherwise known as black diamonds, Périgord truffles are a gourmand delight and the winter months are the only time you’ll be able to savour their umami earthiness on your palate. Head out with Australian Truffle Traders to take things to the next level and enjoy a truffle hunt, complete with the excitement of uncovering one of these intensely flavoured fungi from the soil. With the help of their ever-so-cute truffle dogs, it will bring a new found awareness and respect for this uber luxurious ingredient.
Seriously, who hasn’t wanted to be the magician behind your favourite of bottle of red? There is a real art to getting just the right level of juiciness, tannin, oak; the perfect balance of flavours and textures for your own palate. Hop on down to Clairault Streicker Wines for their wine blending experience and you’ll be able to live out your fantasy for a day. Let their knowledgeable team guide you through the blending process and help you create your own estate-grown Margaret River wine. Put theory into practice as you learn how and why wines are blended, as you measure, mix and taste until you’ve found your own personal blend.
An indulgent experience is not complete without some scintillating scents. Just think about it. Would that bath be nearly as relaxing without a lavender spiked candle melting away? How about that special perfume that makes you feel a million dollars? An afternoon at Vasse Virgin is filled with opportunities to succumb to the world of scent. You can fill your basket up with goodies to get creative in the kitchen back at home, but we’d recommend taking things one step further and try one of the classes on offer. From a simple lip balm through to a full afternoon of natural perfumery creation, you’ll leave with your own piece of artistry and a head scintillated with sublime smells.
What could be more luxurious than a spa experience in the middle of winter? Let the rain be your soundtrack as skilled hands work away the stress knotted in sore muscles. Try the region’s ultimate spa with a view at the eco-luxe Bodhi J Wellness Spa Retreat. With each room looking out over the surf breaking on the rocks at Injidup beach, it’s almost too beautiful to shut your eyes on. Up closer to Dunsborough sits Empire Spa Retreat, a tranquil estate which is ideal to cosy up in on a wintry day for a spot of pampering.
Vasse Felix is Margaret River’s founding wine estate, and you’ll be feeling on top of the world as you survey the vineyards from the balcony of their fine dining restaurant. Under Head Chef Brendan Platt’s expert supervision, the menu is an expression of place and season with decadent and soul hugging dishes. Don’t miss the black pudding bun swirled with burnt butter and shavings of truffle, or the handmade pappardelle, mushroom XO and yolk. For the ultimate day out, enjoy a private wine tasting prior to lunch, and follow up with matched wines at the dining table to really see how food and wine can bring out the best in each other. Be sure to enjoy every morsel at the table – even the bread and butter is divine here: daily baked sourdough served with house churned beurre noisette, lightly whipped into a sweet and nutty butter heaven.
