Thursday, May 16, 2019
Winter wonderland
Can you smell it in the air? It’s the unmistakeable scent of fireplace smoke gently wafting by, ocean air tinged with sea salt, and delicious hot coffee.
Winter is definitely here.
It’s a shame that holidaying in this season is often overlooked in favour of a summery escape, because the cooler months have so much to offer. It’s the perfect time to escape the city and take advantage of smaller crowds, lower costs, and the things that summer doesn’t do so well. Plus, the weather is pretty amazing all year round.
Embrace the winter spirit with these holiday ideas
Festivals, festivals and more festivals
There are more popular events during this season than you might think. The Margaret River Pro surfing competition kicks things off from 27 May to 9 June followed by the heady Jazz by the Bay from 31 May to 3 June. Later in June is Truffle Kerfuffle – a celebration of the luxurious and sought-after delicacy – which is usually a sell-out. The next month from 19-28 July, there is the raucous all-round fun Cabin Fever with more than 30 events revolving around food, drinks and music. And in August, CinefestOz showcases national, international and Indigenous films.
Cosy up in your dream home
Booking the right holiday accommodation is extra important in winter. You’ll probably spend more time there and you’ll want all the creature comforts. A home with an opulent fireplace and soft sofas to sink into, a big library or plenty of puzzles and games? Or maybe you prefer an outdoor firepit for toasting marshmallows. What about cooking in a kitchen you’d give anything to have at home? Or, maybe you want to be like in the movies and sink into a bubble bath or spa with a glass of wine in hand, and not care in the world.
Hint: we have all the above. Get some inspiration and browse our portfolio of homes.
Waterford, Margaret River
Try the best restaurants in the region
Low season mean more opportunities to sample the best menus on offer without jostling with the crowds. And often with reduced prices. From long lunches and degustation at fine dining restaurants, to the newest casual hotspots, breakfasts and outstanding coffee shops. You could also make the WA Day long weekend special and celebrate at Xanadu for their 40th anniversary.
Feel small while whale watching
You might think activities on or in the ocean belong to summer. Not so. Actually, winter (and spring) is the perfect time to go whale watching, and Western Australia has some of the best vantage points to see some 35,000 of our ocean giants migrating up the coast. Here’s where to find these beautiful creatures from Busselton to Albany.
Photograph by David Ashley. Courtesy of Australia’s South West
Book a private chef
Your winter holiday down south is the perfect opportunity to really spoil yourself. Organise a private chef to come to your holiday home and whip up a gourmet three-course meal. Or try dinner with a twist; be like a Masterchef contestant, get a blindfold on and sample beautiful food crafted by Epicuriosity cooked up in your kitchen.
Get in touch with nature
While the rest of the world is hustling, bustling and crammed with people wherever you turn, Western Australia is an escape. Get out onto tracks such as the Meelup coastal trails, Cape to Cape Track, the iconic Bibbulman Track, or The Gap, Natural Bridge and Stony Hill Lookout in Albany. There is also the ancient Porongurup National Park and the towering forests of Denmark and Walpole to gaze at in wonder. Lots of these are off the beaten track so pack snacks, water and a jacket before you lace up your boots.
Take a foodie tour
Take advice from the locals and let them show you the very best of the best. And with cooler weather, this is the perfect time to take a cheese or wine tour. You are on the doorstep of one of the greatest wine-producing regions on the globe, so it would be sacrilege to miss out. Margaret River does most wines well, but the cabernet sauvignons and chardonnays are legendary. Don’t know much about wine? No problem.
Learn about Albany’s importance to Australian military history
Albany has a special place in the hearts of all Australians and New Zealanders. It was the last place of home that many would ever step foot on again, with more than 30,000 servicemen and women departing Albany bound for the WWI battlefields. Find out more.
Visit local producers
There is a huge push to buy local and avoid the environmental cost that comes with shipping foods in from around the world. As luck would have it, we have access to unbelievable local produce in all our southern regions – Peel, the South-West and the Great Southern. Chocolate, cheese, ice cream, olive oils, breads, coffee, condiments and meats; you name it, we produce it.
Photograph by Frances Andrijich. Courtesy of Australia’s South West
Wander through farmers’ markets
Like the above, go local wherever you can. If it’s a lazy meander outdoors you’re after, visit the region’s many farmers’ markets. Bring a big bag because we guarantee you’ll be leaving with an armful of fresh goodies.
Don’t lift a finger
When was the last time you did absolutely nothing? Really relished your surroundings while rugged up watching movies or reading (and with everything you could possibly need at your fingertips). We offer you the option to simply arrive at your accommodation, drop your bags and relax. Private Properties will organise the rest.
For lots of family-friendly options, you’ll want to read School holiday activities for all personalities and 35 indoor holiday ideas.
Embrace the beauty of winter in Western Australia’s South-West. Cosy up at night in one of our homes – browse our portfolio to discover your dream winter property now.
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