Recently updated on April 30th, 2024 at 05:50 pm
Our new Australian ‘Near Not Far’ limited series guided holidays have been created specifically with Australian travellers in mind. And knowing how much locals enjoy experiencing regional food and wine, the Ultimate Wonders of the West itinerary is a treat for all tastes.
1. Enjoying a private vineyard tour & degustation lunch at Hay Shed Hill Winery
[I have requested from resource space – Cat]
Hay Shed Hill is one of a small, prestigious group of vineyards that established Margaret River’s reputation as a world-class wine region. Located in the Willyabrup Valley, the premier sub-region of Margaret River, owner-winemaker Michael Kerrigan produces single vineyard wines rated 5 stars by the famed James Halliday Wine Companion reviewers – a 100% value strike rate with its wines between 94 and 96 points.
Enjoy a guided walk through the vineyard with some of the oldest chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon vines in the Margaret River area. Before sampling the very best of the winery and region, over a 7-course degustation lunch paired with matching premium wines.
After which, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for some of the country’s finest wines, why the cultivar is so popular and what it takes to run a modern winery in Australia.
2. Tasting the native foods of the Wadandi and Bibbulman people
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For over 50,000 years, the Wadandi and Bibbulman people of the Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River have walked this ancient land. Wadandi custodian Josh “Koomal” Whiteland will introduce you to the native bush foods of the world’s oldest living culture with his authentic, personal interpretation.
You’ll learn about the six Noongar seasons and how they influence what is hunted and gathered. From kangaroo, emu, quandong, emu plum and salt bush, you’ll take home a new perspective on truly Australian cuisine.
EXPERIENCE THIS ON: Ultimate Wonders of the West
3. Taking in the ocean views at Other Side of the Moon
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You’ll celebrate the bounty of WA’s South West during your time at the Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, make the most of breathtaking ocean-views and terraces with stone fireplaces that come alive during the winter months.
Named after the nearby ‘Other Side of the Moon’ surf break, you’ll share a farm to table dinner where the menu reflects the indigenous ingredients that flourish in Bunker Bay. You’ll see how native pepper berry and foraged herbs play well with locally bred Big Red pork belly and marbled magyu beef – along with local Denmark mushrooms, Manjimup truffle oil and Cambray pecorino. You can trust the team here to use the very best seasonal ingredients, they were recently awarded a WA ‘Gold Plate’ for their use of fresh produce.
4. Indulging at the Intercontinental Perth
In Perth, you’ll stay at the InterContinental, where they are as passionate about food and wine as we are. In fact, the chefs are so enthusiastic they have personally visited the farm for their dry aged Butterfield Beef from deep in the Stirling Ranges and walked the olive groves in Cooladerra Farm where their extra virgin olive oil is sourced. They take a holistic approach to sourcing local, seasonal ingredients in order to create innovative dishes that are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, while showcasing some of Western Australia’s finest produce. Be it during your Welcome Reception or your included breakfasts, you’ll certainly be treated to dishes prepared with pride and plated to perfection.
EXPERIENCE THIS ON: Ultimate Wonders of the West
5. Dining at POST in Perth’s original General Post Office
[Image to be requested]
POST is named for its unusual location, it’s situated in the franking room of Perth’s original General Post Office in the State Buildings. Carefully selected for one of our first dining experiences together, Executive Chef Kim Brennan’s reputation for excellence is well known across Perth’s foodie scene.
6. Relaxing at Pinky’s Beach Club, Rottnest Island
[Image to be requested from Pinky’s / Thomsons Rottnest]
Rottnest Island is a bucket list destination for most Australians, and Pinky’s Beach Club boasts one of the most spectacular beachside views on the island. Serving up locally inspired dishes and cocktails, the restaurant is one of the most celebrated dining experiences on Rottnest.
Pinky’s menu is inspired by the best of Western Australian produce, sustainably sourced where possible, with a distinctly Rottnest flavour. Sister-restaurant to the famous Thomsons, Pinky’s shares a seafood focus, with both restaurants under the leadership of revered chef Karl Wulf. What a way to taste the best of island life!
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7. Feasting on local produce from the Freemantle Markets
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Your final day is timed perfectly for a relaxed visit to Western Australia’s famous Freemantle Markets. With over 100 years of delighting travellers and locals alike, it’s a feast for your eyes as well as your tastebuds, you’ll find it very hard to choose what to try first! From gourmet adobo brined fried chicken and egg brioche burgers to salted caramel vegan brownies – there’s definitely more than enough for everyone. And with this being your final stop on the Ultimate Wonders of WA itinerary, you can stay as long as you like to make room for more, and stock up on fresh food or snacks for your onward journey.
Wow, what a trip! Has our Ultimate Wonders of the West got your taste buds tingling? Well if so, take a look at the full itinerary for more information. Have you had an unforgettable foodies experience in WA? Let us know below.