Before moving to West Australia I had never heard of Margaret River. With no surfing background and an Italian passport, I had no idea what to expect from this former hippy enclave.
All I knew was that they produce a passable wine.
It turns out their wine is actually good and the area is regarded as one of the best surfing spots
in the southern hemisphere. Now Margaret River is now one my favourite escapes in the whole
world.
The 300km ride from Perth to Margaret River, passing through Dunsborough, Eagle Bay, Yallingup, and Cowaramup is a succession of infinite and desolated white sandy beaches, forests,
fire devastated landscapes and endless surf spots. Surfer or not, you'll fall in love with this piece
of beautiful wilderness. With over 130km of coastline and consistent swells the year round, it’s
easy to see why so many are drawn to this paradise like I was.
As a european, my knowledge of sharks is limited and unfortunately there are sharks to contend
with in these waters. The proximity of these beasts both amazes and terrifies me yet somehow
we never seem to worry when it's time to go to the beach.
My personal tips to avoid to being eaten by a shark: never wear black (I'm screwed!), don't act
like a seal, avoid grey days, hang out with dolphins and don't go too far out in the water!
Bodyboarder Alex Turoy’s tip: turn your back and paddle back to the beach as fast as you can!
Laura Manganaro
Photo: Alexander Turoy