EXPLORING one of Western Australia's most diverse destinations has become much easier thanks to Jetstar's new direct flights between Melbourne and the Margaret River region.
The airline now operates three direct services between Tullamarine Airport and Busselton-Margaret River Airport, making it possible for visitors from "t'otherside" to travel non-stop to one of Australia's premium wine regions.
As an added bonus, visitors who book the new route from now until November 30 will also receive a South West Wanderer Pass - a $100 credit towards participating tours, experiences and attractions around the Margaret River and South West region.
Margaret River is the only premium wine region in Australia where visitors can hop from award-winning wineries, breweries and restaurants to stunning beaches, tall-timber forests, world-class surf breaks and ancient caves.
Food and wine lovers can visit more than 90 cellar doors, with many offering restaurants with vineyard views. Taste the creations of boutique breweries and distilleries, or tour farmers markets and providores.
The region is home to many of WA's top producers and suppliers of cheese, chocolate, olive oil, craft beer, spirits, seafood and world-class chefs.
Beyond the great food and wine, there's the picturesque walk trails, dazzling limestone caves and pristine beaches, alongside a thriving art scene, ancient stories from traditional owners, kid-friendly attractions and an underwater playground at the longest timber piled jetty in the southern hemisphere, Busselton Jetty.
Accommodation ranges from chalets and villas to farm stays and B&Bs, caravan parks and camping to family-friendly hotels and resorts, luxury retreats and glamping to secluded private property getaways.
The new direct flights operate Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, departing Tullamarine Airport at 9.35am AEST and arriving at Busselton-Margaret River Airport at 11.40am WST; then returning to Melbourne at 12.40pm WST.