Cape Lodge

Margaret River Vineyard Retreat

Follow the surf three hours south of Perth and you will discover one of Australia’s finest boutique hotels – Cape Lodge – which sits on its own vineyard amidst 40 acres of manicured gardens and natural forest in the glorious Margaret River wine region, now world famous for its award-winning wineries and spectacular coastline. This stunning south-west corner of Australia has become a delightful revelation to those who are passionate about cuisine, superb scenery and fine wines.

A member of the exclusive ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’ and named in Conde Nast Traveller’s Gold List 2007 as one of the “World’s Best 100 Hotels”, Cape Lodge is tucked away at the end of a private driveway on the banks of its own serene lake. It is the perfect retreat for a romantic gourmet escape and not only boasts 22 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, but also a magnificent lakeside restaurant which specialises in innovative regional cuisine complemented by an impressive selection of premium local wines from the 14,000 bottle temperature controlled cellar.

The original homestead houses the lobby, a guest drawing room and the chic Lodge Suite with a main bedroom and separate living area, whilst the other rooms and suites are spread throughout the grounds in five detached wings, all specifically designed for ensuring privacy and relaxation. The recommended oh-so-spacious Forest Suites enjoy a woodland setting overlooking a second lake, just a short stroll from the restaurant. Families (or two couples travelling together) may opt for the charming two bedroom loft design Cottage which is set slightly away from the hotel.

Cape Lodge’s neighbours include the renowned wineries of Vasse Felix, Moss Wood, Pierro and Cullen – in fact, there are over 20 acclaimed Margaret River vineyards within a five minute drive, not to mention the nearby world class surf beaches of Yallingup and Prevelly and the clear blue waters of Geographe Bay. Tennis, croquet, fishing, horse riding and bush walking are amongst the other options available whilst the region’s towering karri forests are also a major drawcard.

The Vineyard Residence

This magnificent house on the Cape Lodge estate is secluded within its own private three acres and can luxuriously accommodate up to 10 guests in its five bedrooms which include a master suite, two kingsize rooms and a separate two bedroom guesthouse. The stylish interior, with expansive living area, is light and understated with timber floorboards – and the services of a Cape Lodge chef can, of course, be organised for exclusive dinner parties, a gourmet BBQ or a special celebration.

Award-winning Dining

Ranked fourth in the “Best for Food” category in Conde Nast Traveller’s “Best Hotel’s of the World” Gold List, Cape Lodge’s elevation into the culinary stratosphere has much to do with the work of WA born and raised executive chef, Mr Tony Howell, who believes in absolute freshness and uncompromisingly good ingredients – almost everything you can eat at Cape Lodge is made daily on the premises. Restaurant bookings are strongly recommended – and a full gourmet breakfast is included.

Margaret River Wines

Surrounded by open water on three sides between Capes Leeuwin and Naturaliste (ensuring it is almost completely free of pollutants and contaminants), Margaret River is fast emerging as one of the great young wine regions of the world. Its mild, wet winters and sun-splashed summer seasons, combined with the year round cool sea breezes, abundance of fresh air, unspoiled countryside and fruitful earth, all add to the viticultural equation – it is a vigneron’s dream come true!

PRICES Prices from £69 per person per night including gourmet breakfast, based on 2 people sharing. Flights to Australia vary in price considerably depending on date of departure though there are always good deals on quality airlines. Fares on Qantas/British Airways, for example can start from as little as £699 including taxes and fuel surcharges. From April 2008, Qantas will be introducing its all-new Premium Economy cabin. With dedicated check in, 40" seat pitch, extra width and enhanced meal service, all this extra luxury comes at a suprisingly low upgrade cost. Please ask your sales consultant for more details.