Margaret River & Southern WA, where some of the best wines in the world meet some of the best surf breaks on earth. Is it any wonder that today it was named the number 1 Asia Pacific destination to visit in the year ahead?
Upon announcing Margaret River & Southern WA’s top-ranking, Lonely Planet said: “take one look at Meelup Beach and you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life”.
“The West Australian bush parts to reveal ocean the hue of a Bombay Sapphire bottle, which is typical of the coastline stretching from Margaret River to the state’s south”.
Image: Australia.com
Beyond the sand, some of the country’s slickest wineries, breweries and restaurants lie between tracts of tall-tree forest and kangaroo-dotted farmland,” Lonely Planet said.
Lonely Planet gave a nod to Qantas’ new connectivity to WA with their 17-hour direct flights from London to capital city Perth – putting it “at Europe’s fingertips”.
The area’s coveted food and culture-amped festivals added heavily to its winning title – from the Gourmet Escape to Truffle Kerfuffle and Taste Great Southern events.
Also noted was the amazing surf, whales aplenty and DIY coastal hikes with paved sections (improving accessibility for all).
Image.: Margaretriver.com
When it came to Lonely Planet’s 10 hottest picks in Asia Pacific Shikoku, Japan came in second place followed by Bay of Islands & Northland, New Zealand; Singapore; The Cook Islands; Central Vietnam; Fiji; Palawan, Philippines; Beijing, China and Cambodia.
Click here to see the full rundown on the Asia Pacific destination awards.
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- READ: Lonely Planet reveals the top 10 countries to visit in 2019