Liberty by Louise Farnay

Margaret River isn’t just about wine, food, surf and natural beauty. It’s also home to numerous artists tucked away within the region’s stunning surrounds. In fact, you’d be surprised where you might find an artist painting, sculpting, photographing, glass blowing, crafting jewellery or creating unique artworks. That is unless you’ve joined the Margaret River Region trail this September when 140 talented artists throw open the doors to their private studios.

Artist Carmen McFaull

Artist Trish Waters

You’re invited to this annual event in collaboration with the Margaret River Open Studios spanning from Busselton to Witchcliffe from 11 to 26 September. As well as popular art forms such as painting, ceramics, sculpting, illustration, photography, jewellery and glass, this year’s Open Studios will also feature several unusual creators including a milliner, hand-woven rug maker, two tattoo artists and a handcrafted bookmaker.

Christian Fletcher out in the field

Everlong by Josh Windram

Lesley Meaney in her studio

Art lovers have the rare opportunity to enjoy exploring the studios and homes of some of their favourite artists as well as discovering new talent. Popular artists Leon Pericles, Rebecca Cool, Rachel Coad, Lauren Wilhelm, Christian Fletcher, Fi Wilkie, Gerry Reilly and Ian Mutch are returning, with more than 40 artists new to the event, which makes it exciting for visitors who enjoy the event each year.

Leon Pericles in his studio

Spring is the perfect time to see the Margaret River region in all its glory, capturing the vibrant colours of the wildflower season. Take a road trip through the region and visit the studios of artists you know and love, and some you don’t, but who might just be the next big thing. While you’re in the region, why not explore the Cape to Cape trek or stay at one of these luxurious Margaret River properties.

Wild Flower Reef by Delfina Monteverde

Rebecca Cool and Ross Miller’s Studio

You can pick up an event guide from your local Jacksons Drawing Supplies store or visit mrropenstudios.com.au to plan your itinerary. Studios typically open from 10am to 4pm daily, but please check the website or event guide for details.

As well as the event, there is also a book available. As the author of the Artists of the Margaret River Region, in 2016 I had the daunting task of interviewing and crafting the profiles of 80 artists from the Margaret River region. I entered a kaleidoscope of paint, ink, pencil, pastel, aerosols, timber, textiles, metal, glass, mixed media, collages, sculpture, art installations, clay, ceramics, collographs, etchings, jewellery, printmaking and photography. I’m thrilled to share that The Artists of the Margaret River Region won a gold IPPY award in the Non-fiction Australia/New Zealand category at the 2017 Independent Publisher Book Awards in New York City. If you’d like a copy of this book please get in touch with me at carmen@fluffytowel.com.

Here is a ist and map of galleries in the Margaret River Region:

The post An Artistic Adventure in Margaret River appeared first on Fluffy Towel Travel.

The Margaret River Region is every Western Australian’s favourite destination. I know, it’s a big statement,  but I can back it up with wine, a stunning coastline, enchanting forests, world-class cuisine and luxurious accommodation.

Private Properties is known for its unforgettable properties in amazing locations ranging from sleek and contemporary designs to pre-loved bungalows, many boasting coastal, vineyard and bush views. They have recently released five new properties for those yearning to escape to Dunsborough, Yallingup and Margaret River.

Dunsborough

Situated on the tranquil banks of Geographe Bay, Dunsborough offers white sandy beaches, gentle walking/cycling trails and a bustling café culture. The bay is a popular for water sports including diving, snorkelling, kayaking and swimming. On the north-western point is the top end of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, which is known for the stunning Cape Naturaliste, the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and the Cape to Cape Track.

Forest Beach House

Just as the name suggests, you’ll be shrouded in the bushlands of Meelup Regional Park and the sparkling Geographe Bay. Architecturally designed in industrial chic, the polished concrete floors, charred timber and plush leather couches make for a stylish coastal stay for eight. It’s only a stone’s throw to the rockpools and coves of Dunsborough’s coastline.

Yallingup

Surrounded by the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Park, Yallingup is famed for its spectacular views over Yallingup Beach and the Indian Ocean. A world-class drawcard for surfing, snorkelling, swimming and caving, as well as galleries, food and wine, it’s easy to understand why it was named after the Aboriginal word for ‘place of love.’

Apricus, Yallingup

With sweeping views of Yallingup’s coastline, Apricus encapsulates the region’s coastal charm. Light and bright and bathed in modern white furnishings and timber details, family and friends won’t be able to resist gravitating towards the open-plan living area and balcony. Sunset views are guaranteed to a backdrop of bush and turquoise hues. Sleeping eight, it’s a short walk to Yallingup Beach, the new Lagoon Yallingup café and historic Caves House Hotel for pub grub and live music.

Barefeet Retreat, Yallingup

You might be cocooned in luxe decor at the Barefeet Retreat, but the casual coastal vibe invites plenty of barefoot luxury. Almost every room across its three levels promises ocean vistas and the sheltered BBQ deck on the top floor will keep all eight guests (plus your furry friends) satiated as the sun slips into the Indian Ocean. It’s a leisurely stroll down to the family-friendly Yallingup Lagoon and bustling Caves House Hotel.

Sundowner, Yallingup

The Hamptons comes to Yallingup at the Sundowner where you can luxuriate in Western Australia’s famous sunsets slipping into the Indian Ocean from your balcony – or your bed. Sleeping six people across three bedrooms, there’s plenty of space to relax within its crisp and coastal décor. From here you can walk to the Caves House Hotel or to the new Lagoon Yallingup restaurant.

Margaret River Region

The Margaret River Region is approximately a three-hour drive south of Perth and synonymous with towering forests, rugged granite outcrops and jaw-dropping coastline. It’s also famous for its wine and food and the entire region is dotted with wineries, restaurants, cafes, breweries, cideries, distilleries and world-class produce. You could say there’s something for everyone. The township of Margaret River is currently undergoing a make-over but most venues are still open, including the Margaret River Farmers Markets on Saturday mornings.

Bushland Retreat, Margaret River

Overlooking bushland on the outskirts of the Margaret River town, you’re well-placed to enjoy the region’s many eateries, wineries, breweries and attractions. Nestled among towering eucalyptus trees and the river, there are bush trails winding through the forest, along the river and even into the Margaret River Brewhouse. Sleeping eight, this wooden chalet is the perfect spot to cosy up in front of the fireplace.

Private Properties manages over 100 exclusive properties across Western Australia ranging from Perth to Albany including Margaret River, Mandurah, the Swan Valley, Toodyay and the Great Southern Region.

For prices and availability please go to www.privateproperties.com.au

The post 5 Luxurious Margaret River Properties appeared first on Fluffy Towel Travel.