On the road: Where to eat, drink and stay in the Great Southern

Going by area size, Great Southern is the largest wine region in Australia, and the second-largest producer of grapes in Western Australia. But despite its size, this wine region often finds itself in the shadows of its famous neighbour, Margaret River. Today, we're here to shine a spotlight on this sensational region.

With its landscape of forested cliffs and epic mountain ranges, grazing pastures and historic towns, Great Southern is a must-visit destination for foodies, oenophiles and outdoor adventure seekers alike. Although the region is a relative newcomer to wine production, with a trial vineyard being established in the 1960s, there are now over 70 wineries in the area.

Below, we highlight the best places to eat, drink, stay and go in Great Southern, so that you can hit the ground running on your next trip.

Winery to visit in Great Southern: Ironwood Estate Wines

Situated in the heart of the Porongurup subregion, Ironwood has world-class views of the Stirling Range, a fantastic soil profile and a track record of award-winning cool-climate wines. With premium wine, customer service and grounds with great gardens and sculptures, there's no better place in the region to sit down for a glass of wine and lunch while marvelling at the stunning view.

The Porongurup subregion built its reputation on riesling, so if you're not sure what to drink we recommend the 2024 Ironwood Riesling. Or, as we head into winter, the Ironwood Shiraz is a great pick; it's lighter-bodied cool-climate excellence.

2191 Porongurup Road, Porongurup WA 6324 | 0430 111 006

ironwoodestatewines.com.au

Where to eat in Great Southern: Monty's Leap

Taste the quality of Great Southern and Western Australian produce at Monty's Leap restaurant, which looks out over the estate vineyard along the banks of the ancient Kalgan River. Monty's Leap prioritise sourcing the freshest regional ingredients (think wagyu beef, green range lamb, eggs, mushrooms, truffle, duck and marron) from local and family-owned businesses, so the menu evolves with the seasons.

All food is designed to be shared, and offers a wide range of dishes to suit everyone. The restaurant is open Friday to Sunday 11am–4:30pm.

45821 South Coast Highway, Kalgan WA 6330

montysleap.com.au

Where to drink in Great Southern: Woodlands Distillery

Nestled in the base of the 1200-million-year-old Porongurup Range is where you'll find Woodlands Distillery. Housed in a converted shearing shed, the distillery offers panoramic views of the mountains and landscape before it.

With products including vodka, gin, brandy and whisky, Woodlands Distillery is the perfect place to try your favourite spirits and chat to the knowledgeable distiller and staff.

1455 O'Neill Road, Porongurup WA 6324

woodlandsdistillery.com

Where to stay in Great Southern: Karribank Accommodation

Blending heritage aesthetics with modern comfort, Karribank is Western Australia's oldest country retreat. Here you'll find a range of accommodation options, including self-contained chalets for five guests that are perfect for families, a two-bedroom mud brick cottage with a kitchenette and verandah offering sweeping views of the Porongurup Range, or historic en-suite rooms with warmth and character.

Located within the Porongurup National Park, Karribank is the perfect home base for exploring the surrounding wineries, eateries, outdoor activities and more.

1983 Porongurup Road, Porongurup WA 6324

karribank.com.au

What to do in Great Southern: Granite Skywalk

In the words of the locals from Ironwood Estate Wines, the Granite Skywalk is a "must-do" while in the Porongurup region. Over 1100 million years in the making, the granite outcrop of Castle Rock is located in the heart of Porongurup National Park, just a 45-minute drive from Albany. The suspended walkway perched on the 670m peak offers an unparalleled experience to take in breathtaking views of Albany, Mount Gardner and Mount Manypeaks.

Castle Rock Road, Porongurup WA 6324

westernaustralia.com

Top image credit: Ironwood Estate Wines

Join Halliday Wine Club to drink the very best of Australian and New Zealand wine 

Are you an explorer, enthusiast or collector? No matter the Halliday Wine Club plan you choose, each month we'll deliver two bottles of 95+ point wines direct to your door. From $89 per month. You can skip, pause or cancel anytime. Join now.