Nestled in the heart of Western Australia’s Margaret River region, Dunsborough is a picturesque coastal town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local charm.
Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery, Dunsborough is becoming an increasingly popular destination for those seeking a tranquil and relaxing getaway.
The town itself is roughly 2.5 hours south of Perth, making it easily accessible for a weekender to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The town is situated on the shores of Geographe Bay, which is renowned for its calm and clear waters, making it the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching.
One of the highlights of Dunsborough is the nearby Ngilgi Cave, a stunning limestone cave system that is more than 500,000 years old. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, explore its intricate network of tunnels and chambers, and learn about its history and significance to the local Indigenous people.
You’ve also got the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse which sits atop a rugged headland overlooking the Indian Ocean. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, or take a walk along the nearby Cape to Cape Track, which stretches for over 100 kilometres along the coast.
In addition to its natural attractions, Dunsborough is also known for its thriving food and wine scene. The region is home to a range of local wineries and breweries, many of which offer tastings and tours for visitors. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the town that serve up delicious local cuisine, using fresh, seasonal produce from the surrounding area.
Accommodation options in Dunsborough range from cozy cottages and bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts and beachfront villas. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
Dunsborough Accommodation
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Pullman Bunker Bay Resort is one of the region’s most popular and sought-after venues. Often booked for weddings and other special occasions, this five-star resort is just a two-minute walk to the turquoise waters of Bunker Bay Beach and has 150 luxury villas, dining areas, a fully-equipped spa, tennis courts, and a private lake. Feel free to drop in on your helicopter to make use of the resort’s own landing pad.
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If you’re looking for private, self-catering accommodation with an eco-friendly spin and the ability to book in-house massages, Bina Maya Yallingup Escape is the place for you. Set on 7.5 acres of bushland in the hills between Dunsborough and Yallingup, Bina Maya is close to everything while being far enough away from it all to relax. The Stonegaze and Vintners Ridge wineries are both a stone’s throw away but if you don’t feel like going out, a private chef or meals on arrival can be arranged.
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In a restored farmhouse, on 5 hectares of vineyard, the romantic Empire Retreat is a beautiful spot for an adults-only weekend getaway. Roughly equidistant between Dunsborough and Yallingup, Empire Estate has 11 guest rooms and is centred around its spa which offers massages, facials, and a range of skin treatments. Complimentary breakfast is made each morning and served in the communal, glass-surrounded second floor with views across the valley.
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For something a bit different, check out Barn Hives. These ultra-cool, eco-certified pods sit on the Barnyard Estate with access to their cellar door and restaurant. Each is built across two storeys with its own private deck and views of the ocean and the vines. The pods are powered by roof-top solar and use collected rainwater with special attention paid to the impact of their construction. For sull serenity, they don’t come with TVs.
Back to Dunsborough itself and you’ll find Lanterns Retreat situated in the heart of the old town. The four suites in this heritage estate make up the number one bed and breakfast in the region, according to Tripadvisor rankings. It’s a great choice if you don’t have a car as the best of the region is right on your doorstep here. Relax on your own private verandah overlooking the gardens or ask Sally and Serge to book you a winery tour, a kayaking trip, or an in-room massage.
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Situated in the heart of Dunsborough, Melo Studios will have you feeling a world away. Gust can stay in the chic Eucalypt or the Caesia Studio, each designed with inspiration from the Western Australian tree of the same name and complete with Margaret River Roasting Co coffee, truffle bath bombs, and Leif skin care products. Both ultra-modern, self-contained studios come with complimentary breakfast delivered by local cafes and 1.5m hot tubs.
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To cap it off, Regency Beach Club is one of the top-self contained luxury beachfront offerings in the region. With dozens of accommodation options to choose from, this place is more like a laid-back village at the water’s edge of west Dunsborough Beach. It comes packed with all the activities and equipment you could ever need plus a pool and tennis and basketball courts. The staff here are highly attentive and willing to accommodate your every need.
Related:Â From Spa Resorts to Vineyards Stays, 6 of the Best Accommodations in Margaret River
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