As one of the world’s premier biodiversity regions, and with over 24,000 square kilometers of forests, farmland, vineyards and orchard the South West of Western Australia is not to be missed. You can explore the area from any one of a number of towns and villages dotted throughout the region.
If you’re heading to the South West for a spot of birdwatching and are also looking for a great place to stay that offers peace, serenity, bird and animal life we have found a number of options from which to choose.
Stoneridge Cottages, Balingup
Balingup is a tributary of the Blackwood River Valley, an area of rolling, fertile timbered country with rich pastures and historic towns. Private, secluded and tranquil, Stoneridge is separated from the winding valley drive by 200m of timber, and looks along and across the valley of the Balingup Brook. The slopes, face north and west, and climb quickly from the valley bottom and the road, to form a ridge that runs back into the hill, distinguished by beautiful rock outcrops, hence the name of Stoneridge.
Kangaroos, emus, and over 40 other species of birds come to visit, forage, and sometimes nest in the area.
Wyadup House, Yallingup
Wyadup House offers spectacular views of the brook, valley, ocean and olive grove. The House sits upon the stone foundations of the original farmhouse, now completely rebuilt. From the moment you arrive, you feel the aura of the coastline and the seclusion of the valley. The House itself overlooks a freshwater brook and natural bushland, surrounded by extensive terraced lawns and enduring Marri and Peppermint trees. Originally a pastoral property, it now is a working olive farm covering 38 acres.
Karri Lake Hideaway, Quinninup (near Pemberton)
Quinninup is enveloped by picturesque dairy and sheep farms. Karri Lake Hideaway is situated close to the freshwater Karri Lake. Enjoy walking the full circumference of the lake on the Orchid Walk (1.8kms), walk through the ancient King Karri forest (4.2kms), or take the Ridge Back walk (5kms) where an abundance of bird life can be found and magnificent wildflowers in the spring time.
Nestled in a majestic Karri forest Karri Lake Hideaway provides an ideal base for exploring this magnificent region. Come and escape to the peace and tranquility of the natural bush land, relax by the fire or sit on the verandah taking in the clean fresh air and the sounds of seclusion.
Craythorne Country House, Margaret River, WA
Wake up to an undulating vista with native birds singing, ducks on the dam, sheep and cattle grazing and an elegant country breakfast. Craythorne Country House is an adults only establishment set on 60 acres and located only minutes from the Margaret River region's excellent wineries, restaurants and attractions.
Craythorne Country House is an Australian farm-style home surrounded by a beautiful garden that includes over 500 roses and a croquet green for your enjoyment and relaxation. There are also eight Mini Ponies, along with an Alpaca, sheep, chickens, silkies, guinea fowl and Sam the cat.
Middleton Bay Retreat, Albany WA
Middleton Bay Retreat boasts comfort and style. Each beach house is air-conditioned and fully self-contained with all modern conveniences, DVD and linen. Adjoining the beach reserve, the Retreat is just a stone's throw from nature walks, cycle paths and the pristine waters of Middleton Beach, or meander along the famous Albany boardwalk, look out for whales and relish the freshest ocean air.
Whether you choose to base yourself in the Margaret River, Blackwood River Valley, Pemberton, Augusta or Albany, or sample a few over time, there are a huge variety of different places you can stay.
TakeABreak.com.au lists accommodation right across the Margaret River and South West. You can search using ‘birdwatching’ as a category on TakeABreak.com.au using the Quick Search menu, or go directly to http://www.takeabreak.com.au/birdwatching.htm for listings Australia-wide. For a complete list of places to stay in the South West, go to http://www.takeabreak.com.au/margaretriver/accomodation.htm