Margaret River Wines
Margaret River is famous for the outstanding wines produced throughout the region. Today there are more than 200 vineyards and 60 wineries in the area that is known as Willyabrup Valley, one of the finest environments on earth for wine growing. Although only around 40 years old, the Margaret River wine industry has already been recognized as one of the world’s finest, producing award winning Sauvignon, Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz wines and produces the majority of premium wines in Australia.

Culture and Cuisine
Along with its winelands, the Margaret River region also boasts pristine beaches, lush forests and a climate reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The natural beauty of the area is complimented by a thriving arts and cultural scene. The rich culture of the native Aboriginal people is found alongside the cosmopolitan lifestyle of the art community as well as the free-spirited surfing crowd, creating the wonderfully diverse charm that is unique to the Margaret River area.

Connoisseurs of gastronomy will be right at home in Margaret River as well! Even the most discriminating diners will be delighted with the variety of fine dining establishments in the region. Throughout Margaret River are many award winning restaurants featuring some of the finest chefs found down under.

Margaret River culture personifies the personality and charm of the friendly, laid back lifestyle that characterizes Western Australia.

World-Class Surfing
Margaret River is synonymous with some of the best surfing on earth. Each year, thousands from around the globe gather along the beautiful coastline to challenge the outstanding waves and breaks that make this destination a favorite for surfers of all ability levels. There are two world-class surfing events held in the region annually: the Margaret River Masters and the Margaret River Classic. These events showcase the best surfers in the world as they compete in these World Qualifying Series events. Throughout the rest of the year there are several smaller competitions held in the area. You can also decide on a beautiful Margaret River cruise vacation if you’re up for it.

Natural Attractions
Margaret River is home to some truly breathtaking scenery and natural wonders that should not be missed. The Shire of Augusta offers the ideal place to experience Australia’s natural beauty at its finest. Pristine beaches where the Blackwood River meets the ocean offer the perfect location for diving, water sports, fishing or just lounging on the beach. For the more adventurous, the extensive system of underground caves that lie beneath the area offer some spectacular exploration opportunities. Many are closed to the public but near Yallingup and Cape Leeuwin are some excellent caves that are open and waiting to be explored.

One of the jewels of the Margaret River region is the Jarrah-Karri Forest. Located near Pemberton, the Valley of the Giants, as the forest is called, is home to many giant eucalyptus trees that include the karri and the jarrah. Wildflowers carpet the forest floor in the spring time, various shrubs and flowering vines add to the allure. Native marsupials including the Tammar Wallaby, the Numbat and the Quokka along with many colorful bird species make their home in this beautiful location.

Author Bio: Zac is a travel writer working for various Australian travel companies. For a perfect vacation he recommends cruises like Princess Cruises or sailing down Margaret River during sunset.

Today, Albany’s primary industry is tourism. The city’s rich and colourful history remains on display in its architecture and historical sites. This, combined with the area’s natural beauty makes Albany one of Western Australia’s premier tourist destinations.

One of the best ways to see many of the best of the more than 50 historical sites in Albany is to take the Amity Trail. It is an easy 30 minute self-guided tour and is a great introduction to this fascinating city. Also not to be missed is the replica of the Brig Amity, the ship that brought the first settlers and convicts into Albany.

While the whaling industry shut down in 1979, the whale watching industry is in full swing. You can often easily spot whales from the shore, but for a more exciting and close-up view of magnificent Southern Right and Humpback whales, you will want to take a whale watching cruise. While you’re at it, you will want to visit Whale World, a fascinating exhibit located at the site of Australia’s last whaling station.

Albany’s rugged coastline and sheltered white sand beaches make it a favourite with holiday makers in landlocked Perth. The Gap, a narrow, rectangular inlet flanked by 20 foot cliffs is a dizzying experience, especially when big waves sweep in and crash against the rocks. The nearby Natural Bridge is also an amazing sight. Another coastal attraction you won’t want to miss is the ruins of the Old Forts Lighthouse on King Point.

One of the more popular scenic walks in Albany is the Middleton Beach Boardwalk. Only about 2 miles or 3 kilometres long, it offers spectacular scenery and a chance to clear your lungs with the fresh ocean air. More adventurous explorers head for the rugged coastline in Torndirrup National Park.

The original aboriginal name for the Albany region was Kinjarling, meaning “place of water.” It was an apt name, because rainfall is high during the winter months between June and September. During the summer, gentle rains keep the air fresh and the landscape green on an average of one out of four days. The climate in Albany is best described as Mediterranean.

Now that tourism has become Albany’s major industry, there is no shortage of Albany accommodation options to choose from. They run the gamut from comfortable budget accommodations to luxurious resorts. With a population of under 30,000 spread out over a wide area, Albany is a great place to stay. Everything is at your fingertips, but the city has a wide-open, spacious feel. To get the most out of your vacation in Albany, plan on staying awhile. There is just too much you will want to see to try to cram it all in in a day or two.

Irukandiji Jellyfish
This tiny but deadly jellyfish reaches only about 2.5 centimeters in diameter, but still causes various deaths each year. Symptoms of a sting can be delayed up to 24 hours, thereby increasing the danger.

Box Jellyfish
The toxin-covered tentacles of the Box Jellyfish can stop human cardio-respiratory function in about three minutes. Found around the Great Barrier Reef, jellyfish cause more deaths in Australia than snakes, sharks and salt water crocodiles.

Saltwater Crocodile
The ‘world’s largest reptile’ the Saltwater Crocodile can reach up to 7 meters in length. This protected species is difficult to see when its swimming, adding to the danger of a sneak attack.

Blue Ring Octopus
Found in the shallow waters of Australia’s reefs, the Blue Ring Octopus has a golf-ball sized body, and venom that can cause motor paralysis leading to cardiac arrest and death for which there is no known antidote. The Blue Ring Octopus, so-called for its blue ring markings, is both beautiful and deadly.

Stonefish
Lurking in the shallow waters of coastal Australia is the brownish-colored Stonefish, which appears to be a rock when in the water. Its thirteen sharp dorsal spines inject venom causing shock, paralysis, and even death.

Red Back Spider
Found across Australia, the Red Back Spider hides in common insect spots. Only about 1 centimeter long and recognizable by a red stripe down her back, the female Red Back’s venomous bite causes acute pain, but fortunately deaths by Red Spider bite are rare.

Brown Snake
The Brown Snake, found mainly in Eastern Australia, is famous for its deadly venom. Seeking treatment quickly is vital to survival after a Brown Snake bite.

Tiger Snake
The Tiger Snake’s venom when left untreated can result in death, but today deaths are rare because of widely available anti-venom. This non-aggressive snake is found in southern regions of Australia.

Taipan
The fast moving Taipan lives throughout Australia, and is famous for its extremely toxic venom, which could kill up to 100 adult humans with a single bite. A Taipan will attack aggressively when threatened.

Great White Shark
Along all Australian coasts watch out for the 3 Great White Shark and its 2,800 teeth. Great Whites attack by wounding their prey, then tracking the scent of the blood. The majority of human victims only suffer ‘test bites,’ not ‘full attacks’ …although they still hurt!

Australian and Animal Related Related
Australias Most Dangerous Animals on Hubpages
Australias Most Dangerous Animals on Squidoo

The capital of Western Australia, Perth, is a vibrant city with plenty to do. It is a place where you can look forward to excellent shopping, bustling markets, heritage architecture, beautiful parks, stunning beaches, fine wineries and relaxing river cruises. With is temperate climate, to provides you with an enjoyable holiday you will never forget and hope to go back many times. Below is a suggested 5-day easy and relax visit of this wonderful place which you can consider for your holiday.

On the first day, take a leisurely stroll and enjoy some of Perth city sights. You can explore several of Perth’s major cultural and historic buildings, such as Perth Concert Hall, Perth Town Hall, St Mary’s Cathedral, Perth Mint and Swan Bells Tower. If you like shopping, you will enjoy shopping in the city malls along the streets. The two main shopping malls in Perth are the Murray and Hay Street malls. Both of the malls are closed to traffic providing a safe walking environment and offer a wide range of specialty stores. Another venue for shopping is the shopping arcade known as London Court.

At Perth’s Cultural Centre and Northbridge, you will find the Western Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. The Art Gallery of Western Australia has one of the finest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia with superb pieces of painting and sculpture.

Kings Park, Perth’s premier tourist attraction is another place worth while to visit. It provides spectacular views of Perth City and Swan River. The Park’s Botanic garden presents a display of Western Australia’s unique flora throughout the year. You will enjoy trekking on the tree top walkway which has a glass and steel arched bridge.

On the second day, you can visit Fremantle, a short trip from Perth city centre. This is a major tourist attraction for visitors from all over the world. It is situated at the mouth of the Swan River. This city port enables you to enjoy a range of cultural activities in a relaxed atmosphere. You can explore places such as Western Australia Maritime Museum, Round House, Western Australia Maritime Museum’s Shipwreck Galleries, Fremantle Prison and Fremantle Arts Centre. With its maritime history and architectural conservation, Fremantle is a place you can discover both the past and the present. The two popular markets here are the E-Shed Markets and the Fremantle Markets. The E Shed Markets has more than 80 specialty stores offering unique gifts, souvenirs and fresh produce. Fremantle Markets, which is a larger market, has more than 150 stalls selling seafood, gourmet items, clothes, jewelry, antiques, souvenirs, fruits and vegetables. You can explore the city by foot or by free shuttle buses.

You can travel to Fremantle by taking a river cruise. You need to book the cruise (one-way or two-way) from a cruise company. The cruise via the Swan River to Fremantle will allow you to relax and enjoy the river scene. Alternatively, you can get to Fremantle by taking a taxi or train ride. If you are traveling by train, you need to take a train from Perth Central Station and stops at Fremantle Station.

On the third day, you can go to Sunset Coast and visit some of the popular beaches near the city. Sunset Coast, which is located in the metropolitan area on the outskirts of Perth, stretches from Cottesloe in the south to Two Rocks in the north. A tour along the stunning beaches of Sunset Coast gives you some magnificent views of the coastline. You can start visiting Rockingham Beach, and then proceed to Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough Beach, City Beach, Trigg Beach and finally ends at Hilarys Marina Beach. Cottesloe Beach is famous for its stretch of pristine white sand. The open-air cafes and pubs along the beachfront and the pine tree lined paths contribute to the relaxing atmosphere of the place. Scarborough Beach and Trigg Beach are popular surfing beaches for holiday makers. Hilarys Marina Beach is a bustling tourist area with a large number of restaurants, cafes, retail shops and beach shade shelters. You can obtain art and gift ware, as well as, beach and surf wear from here. The leisure park in this place has water slides and mini golf.

On the fourth day, you can make a trip to Caversham Wildlife Part and some wineries at Swan Valley.

A visit to the Caversham Wildlife Park gives you the chance to have close-up encounters with a wide variety of Australia animals. The park has animals such as wallabies, emus, quokkas, parrots, galahs, cockatoos, koalas, wombats, kangaroos, dingoes and echidnas. If you want to, you can hold a wombat, pat a koala or feed the kangaroos and take picture with them.

The Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine growing region. Two of Western Australia’s largest wineries, together with many smaller family owned wineries, are located in the Swan Valley. The valley is renowned for its range of premium wines. You can taste some of their premium wines during your visit. Some of the larger wineries have restaurants, cafes or tea rooms. At Swan Valley, you can also visit the Margaret River Chocolate Factory and sample some delicious locally made chocolates.

On the fifth day, you can do your last minute shopping at the city malls before you leave this beautiful city of Perth and head for the airport. You can purchase gifts, souvenirs, local products, post cards, etc at the shops at Murray and Hay Street malls. They have plenty of retail shops with all kinds of products available. You will certainly be able to get what you want from here.

This 5-day easy going schedule covers most of the highlights of Perth that can give you a delightful vacation experience. If you want to take a short break from work and are looking for an enjoyable and relaxing trip, you can consider this 5-day visit of Perth. It will provide you exactly what you need. You will certainly feel refreshed and revitalized! For more information on travel, you can refer to Cheap Airfare

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rose_Mary

Perth Related Resources
Perth Accommodation
Perth Bicycle Hire
Perth sightseeing tours
Swan Valley Wine Tours