Margaret River Indulgence 2024 Sydney to Perth

Departing Sydney’s Central Station, the anticipation builds for the trip ahead as you settle into your first evening on the Indian Pacific, enjoying the fabulous food, wine and service and the social atmosphere of this much-loved rail journey.

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Indian Pacific (D)

After breakfast, prepare for your first Off Train Experience in Broken Hill, exploring the beauty of the Silver City and discovering its mining history or the artistic culture that abounds in the area. Back on board, after approaching the southern tip of the Flinders Ranges, the train weaves its way into Adelaide. You’ll have more afternoon Off Train Experiences to choose from before returning to the train.
(B, L, D)

Today, wake up and marvel at the barren beauty of the Nullarbor Plain. Taking its name from the Latin meaning ‘no trees’, the ancient plain conjures a sense of limitless space and time, making this journey all about those amazing outback views as you cross this famous stretch of the Australian interior. Dinner this evening is under an outback sky on the edge of the country’s largest sheep station at Rawlinna (seasonal). (B, L, D)

Watch the delightful Avon Valley pass by as the final stage of your transcontinental crossing unfolds, heading into Perth, where your connection with the Indian Ocean begins. Check in to your accommodation and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

OVERNIGHT: 1 night DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront (B, L)

Your adventure starts with a picturesque drive south to the Margaret River region, with several stops on route. A coffee break by the foreshore in Mandurah is followed by a visit to the Featured Wood Gallery in Bunbury. At Busselton, walk off your delicious lunch with a stroll along the longest timber jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. After lunch, visit the Origins Market and enjoy a winetasting with Marri Wood Estate in collaboration with Jilyara Wines or explore the markets further and taste some of the local gourmet product on display. Next is a visit to the Margaret River Chocolate Company, with its beautiful handmade truffles. From here, we travel along the coast and visit the coastal town of Prevelly, before continuing along the coast to your overnight accommodation.

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Margaret’s Beach Resort (B, L)

Explore the region further, including Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, where the remains of megafauna over 50,0000-years-old is found at Mammoth Cave. Take a scenic drive through the majestic Boranup Karri Forest, with towering trees and continue south to Hamelin Bay, known for the friendly stingrays that cruise the shallow waters. Pass through the hilltop town of Augusta on the way to the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, where you will take a guided tour. Lunch will be at either The Colour Patch, overlooking the Blackwood River, or at Hamelin Bay Wines, with views over the Karridale vineyard. After lunch is a visit a small boutique winery for a wine tasting. In the afternoon, there is time to explore the town of Margaret River, before returning to your accommodation. (B, L)

Today is all about food and wine. Visit the Yahava Koffee Works, who are so passionate about coffee, they travel the world looking for the best coffee beans which are roasted in house. Indulge in delicious tastings while you learn how to make the perfect cup of coffee from the experts. Margaret River is famous for award winning wineries and cellar doors. Today we visit two different wineries for
tastings. At the second winery, your premium wine tasting will be accompanied with local cheeses from the Margaret River Dairy Co. You gourmet day continues at Olio Bello, an olive oil farm. Experience first-hand the subtle flavours of extra virgin olive oil including citrus pressed oils and sensations with a tasing of the incredible range of condiments. The Olio Bello Café has a menu inspired by their award-winning oils and fresh farm produce and is where we sit down for a delicious lunch accompanied by a glass or wine, beer or juice.
After lunch, your Margaret River Escape concludes as you return to your Perth accommodation for some time to relax. (B, L)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront

Make your way to Barrack Street Jetty, a short stroll from your hotel, and board the Rottnest Express bound for Rottnest Island, 22kms offshore. A 90-minute airconditioned bus tour around ‘Rotto’ takes you to some spectacular locations, including Wadjemup Lighthouse and the boardwalk lookout at the rugged west end. Enjoy a delicious lunch before exploring the island at your leisure – make sure you meet a quokka. Return to Perth by ferry in the afternoon. (B,L).

It’s time to check out of your accommodation after a rich and rewarding discovery of the southwest of Western Australia. (B)