Margaret River Day Tour: Wine, Jetty Train & Canal Rocks

If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in Western Australia’s stunning coastal scenery, incredible wines, and unique local attractions, this tour promises just that. While we haven’t personally taken it, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a clear picture of a well-rounded, authentic experience. From scenic train rides along the Busselton Jetty to exploring the dramatic granite formations of Canal Rocks, there’s plenty to delight nature lovers and culture seekers alike.

What really stands out are the breathtaking views of the coast, the sipping of top-notch Margaret River wines, and the quirky charm of lavender products and ice cream. The best part? The tour is designed to combine these highlights into one seamless day, making it an efficient way to see the region without the hassle of planning each stop independently. On the flip side, the duration does mean a long day on the road, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, some might find it a bit packed.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of scenic beauty, wine, and local culture, especially those with a limited amount of time in the area looking for a curated taste of Margaret River’s best. If you’re eager for authentic, picture-perfect moments and are okay with a busy schedule, this tour could be just what you’re after.

Good To Know

• Diverse experiences: Combines wine tasting, coastal scenery, a scenic train ride, and lavender products.
• Breathtaking views: Highlights include the dramatic granite formations of Canal Rocks and the exploration of Busselton Jetty.
• Value for money: Offers a comprehensive day out, making the most of your time in Margaret River.
• Long but fulfilling: An 11-hour tour that covers multiple attractions, ideal for those wanting a full experience.
• Guided convenience: Live guides in multiple languages add a personalized touch.
• Weather considerations: Some activities, like the train ride, may be affected by weather, with refunds offered if impacted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with convenient pick-up options from three central Perth hotels: The Ritz-Carlton, Duxton Hotel, and Pan Pacific Perth. From there, the journey to Margaret River takes approximately 2.5 hours by coach, giving you a comfortable motorized escape from the city buzz. The coach is described as smooth and spacious, ensuring a pleasant ride with views that gradually change from urban to rural landscapes.

The Wine and Lunch Experience in Yallingup

Once in the Margaret River Valley, the first major stop is at a renowned winery for wine tasting and a delicious lunch. Guests typically spend about 80 minutes here, giving enough time to sample local varieties and enjoy the regional cuisine. Reviewers appreciate the quality of wines and the friendly knowledge of the guide explaining the nuances of Margaret River’s terroir.

You’ll love the relaxed atmosphere, with some mentioning that “the wine tasting felt genuine and not rushed,” allowing for a real appreciation of the region’s premium offerings. The lunch, often highlighted as hearty and locally-sourced, complements the wine perfectly, making this a satisfying start to your day.

Exploring Canal Rocks

Following the winery visit, you’ll head to Canal Rocks, a highlight for lovers of nature and dramatic coastal features. Named for its natural canals carved over millions of years, this spot showcases rugged granite formations and powerful waves crashing against the rocks. Expect about 45 minutes here, which is enough time to walk along the viewing platforms, snap photos, and soak in the natural beauty.

Reviewers frequently mention how stunning the scenery is, with one noting, “The views of the rocks and ocean are jaw-dropping, and you get a real sense of the raw power of nature.” It’s an ideal stop for photographers and those wanting a memorable scenic experience.

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Lavender and Local Treats at Cape Lavender

Next, the group visits a lavender hut, where you can browse a wide array of lavender products, such as essential oils, skincare, and teas. This stop usually lasts around 40 minutes. Visitors love the chance to pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy the calming scent of lavender.

A fun twist—many sample the lavender ice cream, a surprisingly delicious treat that balances sweetness with floral notes. Multiple reviewers have enjoyed this quirky, local specialty, describing it as “a lovely surprise and a perfect refreshment after the scenic stops.” The shop often features local snacks and teas, providing a relaxing break before the journey continues.

The Busselton Jetty Scenic Train Ride

The final major highlight is the scenic train ride along the Busselton Jetty, one of the longest in the world. The train takes you out over the Indian Ocean, with panoramic windows offering spectacular views of the water and coastline.

Guests appreciate the relaxing ride and the opportunity to capture stunning photos en route. The train stop allows a quick visit to the jetty itself before heading back. The entire experience lasts about an hour and is often praised for its unique perspective of the coast. Reviewers mention that “watching the waves crash below from the train is mesmerizing,” making it a fitting finale.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

After the scenic ride, the coach heads back to Perth, with the return journey taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Drop-off options are again convenient, including the same central hotels to suit various travelers’ schedules.

Practical Details for Travelers

Duration and Group Size

This tour runs for around 11 hours, making it a full but rewarding day. The groups are generally moderate-sized, which helps keep things intimate and allows the guides to personalize some of the commentary. The coach is comfortable, and the guide speaks multiple languages—including English, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese—adding a cultural touch for international visitors.

Cost and Value

While the tour isn’t inexpensive, it offers a lot for its price. Covering transport, multiple attractions, wine tastings, and a scenic train ride, it consolidates several must-see spots into one day. The value lies in the convenience, guided commentary, and curated stops that might otherwise take days to arrange independently.

Accessibility and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old. Also, activities like the train ride are weather-dependent; if canceled, a full refund is provided. It’s a long day, so be prepared for a full schedule and some bus travel.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This trip offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. The stunning coastal views ensure memorable photo moments, while the wine tasting allows a genuine taste of Margaret River’s acclaimed vineyards. The quaint lavender shop and ice cream add local charm and a bit of whimsy, rounding out the experience.

For travelers wanting a comprehensive day tour that covers both scenic and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning, this package delivers. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time in Perth who want a taste of the region’s best, all in one well-organized trip.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts around 11 hours, including pickup, travel, stops, and return to Perth.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included at the winery in Yallingup, along with tastings. You can also enjoy lavender tea and local snacks during the visit to Cape Lavender.

Is the coach comfortable?
Yes, the coach is spacious and designed for long-distance comfort, making the 2.5-hour ride to Margaret River quite pleasant.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese, catering to diverse groups.

Is the train ride weather-dependent?
Yes, if poor weather causes the train ride to be canceled, a refund for that portion will be issued.

Final Thoughts

This Margaret River day tour is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a structured, yet varied, experience of Western Australia’s stunning coast and renowned wine region. The blend of scenic landscapes, wine tastings, and local treats offers a well-rounded taste of what this famous region has to offer.

While it’s a full day and some may find the schedule a bit tight, the highlights—especially the jaw-dropping views of Canal Rocks and the scenic jetty train—are worth it. If you’re after an engaging, authentic introduction to Margaret River, this tour delivers on many fronts, making it a memorable addition to your Australian adventure.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, nature lover, or someone eager to tick off iconic sights, this day trip promises a mix of everything, all organized for your convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby