Just 20 minutes outside of Perth, a small-town food-and-wine trail winds through Swan Valley, presenting a more intimate taste of Western Australia
In recent years, Margaret River has basked in the spotlight as Western Australia’s golden child. The region has become known for its gourmet stops, located some three hours by car from Perth.
But an equally delicious discovery even nearer to the city lies waiting. Fed by the Swan River, vineyards just 20 minutes from Perth stretch across the slopes of Swan Valley. Cosy wineries line up side by side, each barely five minutes from the other, their grape fields sprawling out into the hilly horizon.
We hopped on a day trip with D’Vine Wine Tours and spent six hours sipping and chomping our way through Swan Valley. Here are four stops that left a lingering impression.
The Margaret River Chocolate Co
As its name suggests, the Margaret River Chocolate Company originates from farther south, but you don’t have to travel all the way out to get a taste of these ridiculously addictive nibbles. There is a factory and tasting centre in the middle of Swan Valley where you can view chocolate truffles, sauces, pastelles and more being made before your eyes.
Our tour brought us to a corner where we could enjoy a helping of white, milk and dark chocolate pastelles, as well as samples of the brand’s famous Chocolate-coated Delights. These not-so-sweet treats were a perfect break from the drinking; one bite into the sweet honeycomb chunk and I found myself gathering bags of different flavours, including the crunchy and flavourful Chocolate-coated Nougats.
The Swan Valley outlet comes with The Chocolate Cafe, which overlooks the scenic gardens and vines in the back, and shares grounds with the popular home-made spreads brand, Providore.
5123 West Swan Road, West Swan WA 6055, Australia.
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