Discover the Margaret River Region: New Direct Flights from the East Coast

Introduction

Margaret River is a region of Western Australia, renowned for its beautiful landscapes, laid-back beaches, caves and wine, with more than 150 vineyards located in the area. These factors make the Margaret River region an attractive proposition for both domestic and foreign travellers. Historically, however, there has been a problem, as Margaret River has been something of a blind spot for travellers from Australia’s East Coast. Recently, new flight routes have opened up with Jetstar, connecting Sydney to Margaret River and Melbourne to Margaret River with direct flights, meaning the region is better connected than ever before.

This new air link offers almost daily flights from Melbourne (3 hours 30 minutes) and thrice weekly flights from Sydney (4 hours 10 minutes) to Busselton Margaret River Airport.

In this article, we’ll discuss why this new air link is such a big deal and find out why visiting Margaret River is such a great idea. We’ll talk about the must-visit Margaret River attractions and find out more about Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge, one of the best places to stay in Margaret River.

The New Direct Routes: How the East Coast Meets the Margaret River Region

Until recently, anyone wanting to travel from Australia’s East Coast to the Margaret River region had to fly via Perth, a detour that added hours to the journey and was off-putting for many travellers. Aussies and foreign travellers alike simply chose to visit somewhere they could fly to directly. However, thanks to the new flight routes, Margaret River and all of its attractions have opened up to the biggest cities on the East Coast.

And even on arrival at Busselton Margaret River Airport, travellers will find themselves well connected to the region’s main towns and attractions. It is just a 10-minute drive from the airport to Busselton, 40 minutes to Margaret River town, 15 minutes to Vasse and 30 minutes to Dunsborough. Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge is centrally located in the heart of the region in Yelverton, a 30-minute drive from the airport.

Time is money, as the saying goes, and the new direct flights to Busselton are saving travellers hours on their travels.

The Best Place to Stay in the Margaret River Region: Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge

While travellers are not short of places to stay in the Margaret River Region, Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge offers the perfect spot for those looking to embrace nature and enjoy an eco-friendly stay in the heart of the Margaret River region. Don’t take our word for it, check out some of the recent guest reviews.

Forest Rise offers a selection of one and two-bedroom chalet accommodations nestled amongst the wildlife and tranquil forest. Accommodations at Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge are equipped with king-sized beds, log fireplaces for cozy evenings and sky-view windows to name just a few amenities. These self-contained units offer everything anyone could want for a few days in the Margaret River Region, with kitchens, washing machines, Wi-Fi and television. Mountain bikes are provided to aid in exploration of the 240 acre private property and there are BBQ facilities, board games and an outdoor shower for guests to take advantage of.

For larger groups, The Lodge features its own private driveway and four ensuite bedrooms, including a master bedroom equipped with a private spa. The Lodge has its own private swimming pool and outdoor spa, as well as a private veranda which happens to be a popular meeting spot for local kangaroos.

Aside from the luxurious accommodation, Forest Rise has a partnership with a local award-winning in-house chef and offers a range of indulging activities such as yoga and private spa treatments in the comfort of each chalet.

Sustainability is at the heart of Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge. Green energy powers much of the operation, with carbon offsets used in order to reduce any carbon footprint. Rainwater is collected and reused, there is a paper and cardboard recycling program in place and electric vehicle chargers have been installed at The Lodge and several of the chalets.

The best part? You are right in the heart of the Margaret River Region, with easy access to local wineries, beaches, and outdoor adventures. Spend your days exploring the nearby attractions, and then retreat to your chalet for a peaceful night in nature.

If planning a trip from Melbourne or Sydney to the Margaret River Region, Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge offers a stay steeped in nature, designed to relax and recharge. Rates are extremely competitive and can be booked online today.

Why the Margaret River Region is a Must-Visit

So, you know how to get to the Margaret River region from Australia’s East Coast, and you know where to stay, but why should you visit? What is so special about this slice of Western Australia?

This picturesque part of the Australian continent offers everything from world-class wine to unspoiled natural beauty, quiet beaches and a relatively mild climate. There are more than 150 wineries nestled amongst the rolling hills of the region, many offering tours and tastings to visitors. The sheltered beaches of Dunsborough are perfect for families whilst the more rugged coastline of Augusta offer prime surfing conditions. There is plenty on offer to tempt the nature lover too. The Boranup Forest is located about 25 minutes south of Margaret River town and is known for its walking trails and scenic viewpoints. Wildlife to be spotted in this unspoiled region includes kangaroos, possums and bandicoots, whilst humpback and southern right whales can be seen at the coast.

Here are some of the best places to visit in the Margaret River region.

Busselton

The closest town to the airport, Busselton is tucked into Geographe Bay, making it a prime spot for water-based activities including whale watching. The famous Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory is a must see and a popular spot for families. It allows children to get a glimpse of the underwater world from dry land. A train ride along the jetty is also a popular activity. Busselton is also home to two of Western Australia’s best beaches: Geographe Bay Beach and Meelup Beach.

Margaret River

The most well-known town in the area and a popular tourist destination even before the inauguration of the new direct flight routes, Margaret River, or ‘Margs’ as it is often known, offers yet more world class beaches. These include Prevelly Beach and Surfer’s Point, where international surfing competitions take place thanks to a reliable and challenging surf. Sandalford Wines  and Voyager Estate are two of the area’s top wineries. Those looking to enjoy an evening on the town will find plenty of late-night bars, restaurants and pubs on offer.

Yallingup

Yallingup is another of the Margaret River Region’s coastal gems, with more great surf beaches and natural wonders to explore. Explorers can delve into the limestone formations of the Ngilgi Caves and the Injidup Natural spa is spectacular. Yallingup is also renowned for its world class sunsets, perfect for those on a romantic break. Hollywood legend Nicholas Cage recently filmed a movie here, adding a bit of A-list pizzazz.

The Best Time to Visit Margaret River

If planning a visit to the Margaret River region in Western Australia, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). These months avoid Western Australia’s most extreme climactic conditions and its busiest periods, such as the school holidays. The weather at this time is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, and wine tours. These seasons also see fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed experience. If you’re looking to put the log fireplaces at Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge to good use then consider travelling in winter (June to August), when days of exploring can be followed by cozy nights in the chalet.

Have we Convinced You? Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip

If those direct Sydney to Margaret River and Melbourne to Margaret River flights are tempting you to plan a trip, then there a few things to keep in mind.

For the best price, consider booking your flights directly with Jetstar, as the only airline currently offering these routes. And the same goes with Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge, it’s advised to book early and to book direct in order to secure your chalet.

Conclusion

The new direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Busselton make the Margaret River Region more accessible than ever before. This region has always been something of a hidden gem, now it has finally been opened up to the Australian East Coast. There’s nowhere better to stay during your Margaret River trip than at Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge, an award-winning Margaret River chalet accommodation option, where luxury meets nature.