Slosh and scoff your way through Margaret River wineries. Photo: Tourism WA

The tiny town of Margaret River and the surrounding region has long been a summer refuge for burnt-out Perth city slickers.

Located 272km south of Perth in Australia's southwestern corner, its within striking distance of some of Australia's best surf beaches and wineries.

About 40 years ago it became apparent that Margaret River's climate was similar to Bordeaux's and now the surrounding countryside is peppered with 200 vineyards and 90 wineries, many with adjoining gourmet restaurants. Big name-wineries worth stopping at include Vasse Felix (the oldest in the region), Evans & Tate and Cullen Wines. With the region's award-winning Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay, Shiraz and Semillon doing a fine jobs seducing international palates, the secret is now out on Margaret River's charms.

Margaret River itself is 12km inland, but the pristine coastline nearby offers up some world-class breaks at places like Surfers Point, Yallingup, Three Bears and Boranup. To boot, the area has about 350 underground limestone caves, a handful of which are open to the public for guided tours.