Caves Road
Australia
A short but extraordinary drive through the limestone karst of Western Australia's Margaret River region, above ground, the world's largest karri forests and a hundred world-class wineries; below, four show caves of stalactites and crystal formations accessible on guided tours along a single winding road.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse
An 1904 limestone headland lighthouse above turquoise Indian Ocean water. Humpback whales pass the bay below from June to August.
- Ngilgi Cave
The northernmost show cave on Caves Road, formed 500,000 years ago. Ornate helictites spiral in every direction inside the lit chambers.
- Margaret River
The wine and surf capital of WA, over 120 cellar doors within 30 minutes. World-class Cabernet and surf at the rivermouth break since the 1970s.
- Mammoth Cave
A self-guided fossil cave with megafauna bones in the floor: Zygomaturus and Thylacoleo species that roamed WA 35,000 years ago.
- Lake Cave
A 62-step descent into a chamber with an underground lake reflecting a stalactite table formed 350,000 years ago. The mirror image is flawless.
- Jewel Cave
The most spectacular cave on the road: a 75 m chamber of straw stalactites and a thylacine skeleton visible in situ in the cave wall.
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
Australia's most south-westerly point, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. Flinders charted this coast in 1801 from this exact headland.
Where to Eat
- Eagle Bay Brewing Co.Brewery
Enjoy craft beers and gourmet pizzas with panoramic views of the countryside.
- Clancy's Fish PubSeafood
Savor fresh seafood and local wines in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Settlers TavernPub
Experience live music and hearty pub meals in the heart of Margaret River.
Things to Do
- Cape to Cape TrackHike
Embark on a scenic coastal trek offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.
- Boranup ForestScenic Viewpoint
Wander through towering karri trees in this enchanting forest setting.
- Margaret River Chocolate CompanyFood Experience
Indulge in handcrafted chocolates and witness the art of chocolate making.