Stays We Love - from retro charm to laid-back country

Jul 6

At Forage Safaris, we believe a truly premium travel experience doesn't stop when the tour ends - it carries through to the space where you unpack your bags and unwind for the night. A place to reflect on the days experience, and recharge for the next adventure ahead.

‍That's what our Stays we Love series is all about: spotlighting the local accommodation providers whose properties feel like a genuine extension of the South West lifestyle we share on tour. This time, we've picked two stays that couldn't be more different from one another - one is all about social energy and retro cool right in the heart of Busselton, the other is a total escape into nature just outside Margaret River town itself. Wherever you land, you'll be perfectly placed for a day of foraging, tasting and exploring with us.

‍ Option 1: The Social Riverside Retreat – The Timothée

‍ Best for: Couples, friends, and anyone who wants their downtime to have a bit of buzz.

‍Think of The Timothée as the cool, older sibling of your favourite 80's motel - they've kept the nostalgic charm but ditched the bright carpet for a serious makeover. Backing onto the Vasse River and just minutes from the iconic Busselton Jetty, this is a social riverside escape that's as cool as it is comfortable.

‍The Vibe: Retro-inspired and unapologetically social. The 33 thoughtfully crafted rooms highlight local artwork and coffee, plus homewares made from recycled plastic lids and generous workstations for guests who want to mix a bit of work into their holiday.

Why We Love It: The resort is built for mingling - a heated pool, fire pit, bocce and tennis courts, and an onsite Indian restaurant all encourage guests to socialise rather than disappear behind a closed door.
The Forage Connection: With an easy drive from the Busselton Margaret River Airport and only minutes from the Busselton Jetty, The Timothée is a brilliant base before or after a day with us. Come back from tasting your way through the region, throw your feet up by the fire pit, feast on your foraged items, and let the evening roll on.
The Busselton Effect: within a short stroll you are amongst some of the best dining and food options the region has to offer. Select a table with a view of the ocean or one with live music, or both, that’s Busselton – with plenty on offer.

Option 2: The Lakeside Nature Escape – Tanah Marah

Best for: Couples, families, and anyone chasing total peace and quiet.

‍Head further south, and a little inland and the mood shifts entirely. Leaving the Bussell Highway the road winds your way through picturesque farmland and forest, leading to a peaceful haven. Set on 350 acres of forest and farmland between Cowaramup and Margaret River, Tanah Marah's six rammed-earth chalets overlook an 18-acre lake fringed by karri, marri and jarrah forest - and yes, there are resident sheep, a couple of very affectionate cows, and three friendly dogs to say hello to.

‍Stock up on local essentials to enjoy during your stay so that you can take in the walks, scenery and indulge in the back to nature peace that is felt here.

The Vibe: Relaxed luxury with your feet in the dirt. Each spacious, eco-accredited chalet has its own kitchen, sitting area and terrace looking out over the lake, with room for up to six guests.

Why We Love It: There's so much to do without ever leaving the property - walking trails along Bramley Brook, tennis, a nine-hole golf course, kayaking on the lake, or simply watching the resident kangaroos and abundant birdlife go about their day.
The Forage Connection: Tanah Marah is the perfect basecamp for guests wanting to slow right down between tour days. After an afternoon meeting our local growers and winemakers, there's nothing quite like heading back to a private lakeside terrace with a bottle of wine and some delicious nibbles you discovered along the way.

‍ ‍Which stay matches your style?

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