Dolphin Bay, EsperanceMARGARET RIVER Around three hours south of Perth by road, thebeautiful Margaret River region is famed for itsworld-class wineries, many of which are family-run, offering tastings, superb lunches and cellardoor sales. The natural beauty and peacefulpace of the southwest is intoxicating and thereare plenty of walking trails through sprawlingfarm pastures. It is stunning in the wildflowerseason from October to November, when thelandscape bursts to life in a kaleidoscope ofcolour. With the sophistication of the vineyardson its fringes, it's reassuring to see that thesmall town of Margaret River is relativelyunspoilt, just a sleepy main street with a diverserange of alternative galleries and craft studios,and a few small shops to help you stock up fora picnic on the beach. 48Cape Lodge, Margaret River Sitting pretty on the edge of a private lake, thismagical lodge is edged by vines and recognised asone of the finest in Australia. Of the twenty or soguestrooms, the Forest Spa suites are the mostluxurious with a terrace or balcony overlooking thelake, encircled by acres of sweeping lawns andforest. The lodge's renowned restaurant, rated insome surveys as amongst the best in the world,overhangs the lake, with an extensive cellar offeringthe finest of the region's wines. Basildene Manor,Margaret RiverThis gracious manor blends the grandeur of the pastwith contemporary style. In the heart of this lovelywine region, Basildene Manor is a short drive fromMargaret River township, neatly tended vineyardsand a range of stunning beaches. With justseventeen beautifully appointed rooms overlookingfarmlands, lake and gardens it has a delightfulambience, ideal for a relaxing stay. Guests canchoose between the traditional character Manorguestrooms with original features or spacious newwing suites with a private courtyard and balcony. FORESTS AND THE GREATSOUTH WEST South of Margaret River the landscape changesdramatically from rolling pastures to a denseforest of towering karri trees, some over 400years old. The sleepy town of Pemberton,originally the hub of the timber industry butnow with a new reputation for boutiquewineries, is tucked away in a karri valley, edgedby the coast and offering walking tracksthrough the forest, sprinkled with the vibrantcolours of seasonal wildflowers. The small townof Walpole, east of Pemberton, is entirelysurrounded by national park, in an area definedby the remarkable meeting of the sea andforest. The 'Valley of the Giants' treetop walkoffers the chance to venture along a suspendedwalkway amidst the awesome giant red tingletrees. Walpole gives way to peaceful Denmark,on the banks of the Denmark River, referred toas the 'back garden of Perth' for its sweepinglandscape and lush, temperate flowers. Thestunning coastal town of Albany is rich inEuropean history and offers some delightfulhidden natural gems including The Gap, NaturalBridge and beautiful Little Beach. The region isideally explored by car as distances are relativelyshort and there is plenty to see and do.Basildene ManorCape Lodge

WESTERN AUSTRALIA49Tall timber countryPeppermint Grove Retreat,PembertonPeppermint Grove is set amongst magnificent karriforests and vineyards 12 kilometres outsidePemberton, where you'll find restaurants specialisingin fresh local marron and trout, tiny wineries andgalleries. Each of the stylish spacious chalets is self-contained with your breakfast provisions provided.Large French doors open to a lovely deck with viewsof undulating pastures and forests dotted withkangaroo, and each chalet has its own barbequeallowing you to dine the Australian way. tailor-made travelAll our travel arrangements are on a private,individual basis to offer you complete freedom ofchoice. The itineraries and accommodation optionsthroughout the brochure are designed to give you aflavour of what is possible and can be tailor-made tosuit your preferences. Prices vary according toselected accommodation and season. Please callour Australia specialists on 01869 276 345 todiscuss your individual requirements.Tall Timber &Wine CountryLeaving Perth the drive south is relatively easy anddirect. Once out of the city you will pass through thetowns of Bunbury and Bussleton, past lush rollingfarmland and into some of Australia's best winecountry. Driving through beautiful landscape inlandfrom the pristine coast, you pass the limestone caveregion to reach the spectacular Cape Leeuwinlighthouse where the mighty Indian and SouthernOceans meet.Day 1:Arrive in Perth. Explore the city by footor on the complimentary CAT bussystem.Day 2:Full day in Perth to enjoy the heritagesights and attractions including shops,museums, galleries and markets. Day 3:Drive south to the Margaret River regionheading towards the thriving port ofBunbury, then on to Bussleton.Day 4:Full day in the Margaret River region toenjoy countless vineyards, beautifulbeaches, walking or caving. Day 5:Continue south towards Augusta forCape Leeuwin lighthouse where you canwitness the meeting of two great oceans.Head east into the tall timbers of thekarri forests to Pemberton.Day 6:Explore Pemberton's forests and take the'Valley of the Giants' treetop walk inWalpole before heading towards Albany. Day 7:Explore Albany's coast including lovelylittle beaches, coves, national parks, greatwalking and rich local heritage. Day 8:Drive back to Perth on the AlbanyHighway, stopping at Kojonup for a visitto the heritage centre.EXTENSIONSKeen walkers may wish to spend an extra day ortwo based in Mount Barker. Just a short drive fromAlbany, this is an ideal base for trekking across thePorongup and Stirling Ranges. To maximise your timein the south-west a fly-drive option is availablebetween Perth and Albany.Chimes Spa Retreat, Karri MiaThe winding route to Karri Mia treats you tomagnificent views across undulating hills, valleyspeppered with native bush and glimpses over theclear waters of the Southern Ocean. This smallretreat evokes a feeling of escape and peace, with ahandful of spacious rooms extending an atmosphereof casual sophistication and countless hospitabletouches that ensure your stay is memorable. Relaxin the comfort and privacy of your room, indulge inan organic spa treatment, stroll through thebeautiful tiered gardens or venture out to explorethe vineyards, forests and sandy coves. Memories of Albany, AlbanyBursting with charm this bed & breakfast isexclusive to Audley, a charming introduction to thedelightful town of Albany. Your warm and friendlyhosts ensure a home-from-home atmosphere thatextends from the delicious fresh breakfasts served inthe sunny dining room until the end of each day.There are just three delightful guest bedrooms setdirectly opposite a pretty park flanked by the ocean,and the town centre is a short walk away.Memories of AlbanyPeppermint Grove RetreatView from Karri Mia