Margaret River Natural Attractions
A leisurely drive down scenic Caves Road will not only reveal a charming patchwork vista of vineyards and farms, but also a wonderful pristine natural landscape.
Most of the land to the west of this gently meandering north-south route is given over to the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, famed for its wild caves, towering forests, rare flora and fauna and striking wild coastline.
It is here you will find the majestic Boranup Forest with its stands of karri reaching for the sky. Karri are among the world's tallest trees, and forest walks are guaranteed to take the breath away, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
This area is a bird watcher’s paradise. Brilliantly coloured parrots and sapphire-like splendid wrens flit among the timbers. In spring time, blazing wildflowers and spectral blossom adorns the way. The Cape is also renowned for its rare orchids and attracts botanical enthusiasts from the world over to view the unique spectacle.
The forests are home to a wide variety of Australian native wildlife including kangaroo, emu, chuditch, ringtail possum, brushtail possum and woylie. Although shy and timorous many of these animals are regularly seen in their natural habitat within the National Park.
Beneath this sublime terrain also lies the region’s world famous hidden wilderness, or limestone cave systems. Jewel, Lake, Mammoth and Calgardup caves are among the most impressive caves in Australia and are open for guided tours year-round. For well over a century visitors have travelled here to witness the vast chambers and stunning crystalline decorations, and to experience the profound tranquillity and peace of this amazing subterranean world.
The seascapes on the western side of the ridge are regarded as some of Australia's most splendid. Rugged rocky bays, secluded white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters and magnificent crashing surf grace the length of the 130km Indian Ocean coast.
The Capes region is blessed with some of the cleanest air on earth with fresh, bracing breezes blowing in off the desolate expenses of the Indian and Southern Oceans year round.
The clean ocean breezes and relative lack of human impact also brings an ancient glory to the region’s night skies. Cast an eye heavenward on a clear night on the Cape and a blaze of billions of stars, constellations, galaxies and nebulae fill the void. Indeed the great southern arc of the Milky Way galaxy seems to enwrap the void like a vast glowing, coruscating sash.
Come the winter and spring months the great whales migrate north from Antarctic waters to seek sanctuary and give birth in the waters surrounding the Cape. The most commonly observed species are humpback and southern right whales, however in recent years increasing numbers of the giant blue whale have been seen by lucky whale watchers in the area, living proof that these waters provide safety and sanctuary to these gentle giants.
These magnificent yet threatened mammals can be viewed up and down the coast, or visitors can venture out on a whale watching boat for a closer look. It’s an experience you will never forget!
Situated at the most south-westerly tip of the country visitors will come across the historic Cape Leeuwin lighthouse. This is also the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. There are regular tours of the lighthouse and interpretive centre and the seascape views from the top of the tower are fabulous.
Augusta is also where the beautiful Blackwood River meets the sea. Visitors can take daily eco tours up the river which is renowned for it spectacular scenery and birdlife.
The sheltered waters of Geographe Bay in the north and the Augusta river mouth in the south offer ideal conditions for family bathing and sailing. All in all, the Margaret River Wine Region has something for everyone who enjoys the grandeur of nature and the great outdoors.
|
