Rails for Trails walk, southern end

Took Bella for a walk along the southern end of the old railway track that has been converted to a cycling/walking trail. This section starts at Gnarawary Rd and goes through magnificent forest including this stretch of karri trees. 

Yesterday I took Bella to the rapids in the Margaret River. It is less than 2 km away and if the wind is in the right direction, you can here the roar of the rapids from our house.

Cycling in Margaret River

Rob and Helen discovered that cycling to the Berry Farm was a very pleasant experience. They went via Rosa Brook Road, Rosa Glen Road then Davies Road and back into town and then back to us along the Wallcliffe Road cycleway. They really enjoyed the Berry Farm and some of the wineries they passed. The roads did not have much traffic and are very scenic. Rob is just posing here on his bike.

Morning time!

Dirk and Bella enjoying their morning start in the alfresco area in front of the flowering Hardenbergia

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Rails for Trails walk

Walking with Bella on the southern Rails for Trails section that starts at Boodjidup Road. It goes through beautiful forest and sections of bogs as well as grass tree pockets. The trail carries on south through a working farm which is also interesting.

Snail Orchid looking out

First Snail orchid is showing its pretty face. This is probably Pterostylis dilatata, the Robust Snail Orchid. It is growing just in front of our garden shed.

Feeding time!

Dirk and Bella are feeding our hens and rooster their morning weeds and grain. Yesterday we also did some weeding and they are now over loaded with green stuff! Bella loves visiting the hen house but she can get a bit bossy with them especially when they escape from the hen house and she has to get them back in! 

Lunch at King Trout in Pemberton

Visited Pemberton which is only an hour and a half drive away from us in Margaret River. The country side is very pretty at this time of year and you go through some magnificent Karri forests. We stopped first at The Warren Vineyard and tasted some of their excellent wines. We then went to King Trout which is a trout breeding and fishing farm as well as having a lovely restaurant. I had the best trout I have ever had. You can also get a platter of trout and yabbies that looked really delicious.

They have a large lake stocked with trout. You can hire a fishing rod and have a go at catching the trout yourself. The scenery around the lake was very pretty and Bella of course had to go in for a swim. 

We drove back via Nannup which was very lovely as well.

Sue and Pam enjoying some trout. 

I'm about to get stuck into mine

Marron and Trout Platter that they were serving to another couple

View of the trout pond

Another view of the trout pond

1001 extraordinary experiences

What do you get when you cross extraordinary Western Australia landscapes with a bunch of brilliant photographers – 1001 extraordinary experiences and an amazing film showcasing the best of the state in 90 seconds; that’s what! Check it out at www,westernaustralia.com/1001. 

Received a lovely review on Tripadvisor from LizzylambUK who stayed with us in March. She even included a few pictures.

“Amazing place, so peaceful but with everything you need!”

Reviewed May 26, 2013 NEW

I stayed here with my mum for just one night, although we both wished we could have stayed longer. It was such a lovely place, with amazing amenities! The bedroom was a good size, and possibly the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in. This is no exaggeration, as there is even something the compendium that emphasises the importance of a good nights sleep. There is a chance if you are quiet that kangaroos will come and visit just outside your window too!
We loved Bella the dog, and the breakfast was fantastic. It was so nice to sit outside in the morning under the trees. If you prefer to be inside, the lounge is so big and comfortable, with plenty of magazines, a massive tv and plenty of tea/coffee and muffins to help yourself to. They really have got it right, and it just couldn't get any better.
The bathroom was also amazing, with a massive spa bath! I hope I will get to visit again and stay longer next time :)

Illustrator guests from Germany

A couple from Hamburg stayed for two nights and showed me their blogs and I've enjoyed looking at their work. They are halfway through a 4 month visit to Australia. Check out http://dieterbraun.blogspot.com.au, www.brauntown.com and http://www.ju-s.blogspot.com.au/.

Special on Food Wine Sleep

Food Wine Sleep have just posted a special offer to their Facebook fans. Stay 4 nights mid-week and get a full day wine tour for 2 including a scrumptious lunch. http://bit.ly/VX3Po5.

New review in Food Wine Sleep

Discovered someone had left a review for us on Food Wine Sleep http://foodwinesleep.com.au/accommodation/margaret-river/bed-breakfast/loaring_place_bnb.html which was very nice of them:

Lille Hammer, May 29, 2012

Quality (18/20)

Service (18/20)

Atmosphere (20/20)

Value (18/20)

Stayed at that small b&b 2 nights, it actually could not get any better! excellent location, close to many vineyards in Margaret River, yummy homemade breakfast and very friendly hosts. Staying there you feel like home and that's what we really like! Highly recommended!

CinéfestOZ

A four day film treat in Margaret River and Busselton from 23 August to 26 August with .

The main event is in Busselton but there is lots happening here.

CinéfestOZ Margaret River

Thursday23 August	FREE Community ScreeningsMargaret River Cultural Centre	1.05pm	Brain Development in Younger ChildrenRated G	For parents and professionals
		2.00pm	The Smile WithinRated G	An examination of humour
		2.35pm	Life in MovementRated M	Biography and dance
	Premiere Red Carpet eventMargaret River Cultural Centre	6.30pm	Last DanceA MIFF@CinefestOZ film.	Pre-screening drinks and canapés, followed by screening and Q&A with filmmaker.Ticket $40
Friday24 August	FREE Community ScreeningsMargaret River Cultural Centre	12.30pm	I Told Them I Was Ill; Spike MilliganRated PG	Biography with humour
		1.40pm	Joe Camilleri; Australia’s Maltese FalconRated M	The life and tunes of an Australian musician
	Side Bar – Upstairs at the Margaret River Hotel	6.30pm	Sick	Comic fantasy fiction, interaction with filmmakers, and cool tunes from Rainbow and Lancelot who will play downstairs (music free to all patrons)$15
Saturday25 August	FREE Community ScreeningsMargaret River Cultural Centre	10.00am	Skate AustraliaRated G	Sport and fun
		10.35am	I, WombotUnrated	Robot-build competition
		11.30am	Short film selection:The Flying KicksMobileWadembahMy Uncle BlueyAll unrated	Various
		12.20pm	The Grammar of HappinessUnrated	Exploration of Amazon tribes’ happiness
		1.20pm	The Matilda CandidateRated PG	Aussie humour / reality
		2.20pm	Last ParadiseRated PG	Extreme sport and nature
	Side Bar – Upstairs at the Margaret River Hotel	6.30pm	Chateau Chunder	World premiere -Recent history of wine in Australia. $15
Sunday26 August	FREE Community ScreeningsMargaret River Cultural Centre	10.00am	The First InterviewRated G	Historical recreation French Australian
		10.30am	Tea with Madame ClosRated G	Biography with charm – French with subtitles
		12.00	Une Vague AustralienneUnrated	French review of Australian film culture
	General ScreeningMargaret River Cultural Centre	2.00pm	The First Fagin	Charles Dickens’ character of Fagin in Oliver Twist was possibly based on the real life character of Ikey Solomon. A MIFF@CinefestOZ filmTicket $18

For more information about the FREE screenings click here.

Ticketed sessions can be booked online, the Margaret River Visitors’ Centre and at Arts Margaret River. Download our iPhone App. Have you considered a festival Gold Pass or Weekend Gold Pass – it’s the best way to see the festival.

Wanneroo Hash visits Loaring Place B&B

 A group from the Wanneroo Hash House Harriers visited on the weekend. We took them for some walks, tastings and lunches in the region.

 We visited the Ellensbrook Homestead that fortunately was saved by firefighters during the November 2011 fire that devestated Margaret River. The house was built in 1857 and has been restored (http://www.margaretrivervista.com/ellensbrookhomestead.html). 

This is the walk to the Meekadarabie Falls. The fire has killed many trees but they many suckering from the bases and will re-grow. The boardwalk around the falls was burnt but is being rebuilt and will re-open shortly.

Margaret River has lots of walks laid out for visitors. There are thee walks from the Carters Road car park and this walk is called The Pines. It goes through along the Rails to Trails path for a while then through a majestic old pine plantation with magnificent pine trees but also lots of really tall karri and marri.

 

Margaret River in Flow

The river called the Margaret River is flowing beautifully. It is only a 20 minute walk from Loaring Place B&B. Bella loves water and immediately jumps in for a taste and a splash.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Smiths Beach and Canal Rocks

Visited Smiths Beach. Bella loved running through the sand and splashing in the creek. There were about 30 surfers in the water.
On the way we did some tastings at Credaro cellar door. It was Virgin Block but now run by the Credaro family who are largely grape growers in the region. Their wines are very young but pleasant. The building is very good and has a magnificent outlook.
 

Then had lunch at Lamonts at the Smiths Beach Resort. Actually we didn't feel like a large meal so sat in the patio of the deli also run by Lamonts. Pam had a really yummy toasted sandwich with goats milk cheese and spinach. I had a great steak pie.
 

Visited Canal Rocks. This is spectacular coastal scenery and great watching the waves crash onto the rocks

Tree Top Walkers

Cliff and friends stayed with us and then moved on to Walpole where they enjoyed the Treetop Walk. They sent us this picture and also one one of Bella. Cliff also left us a great review on TripAdvisor.

“Excellent B&B, Excellent Host, Excellent Value”

Reviewed May 26, 2012

The property is located in a quiet corner surrounded by lush greenery and the room luxuriously furnished. The layout of the property allowed us to enjoy absolute privacy in the room while catering for interaction opportunities with other visitors with a huge dining/common area.

The host, Dirk, was very warm and helpful. On our arrival, he gave us great suggestions on where we should head out to in the Area and on the day of our departure, he pointed out the various places of interest along the way to our next stop in Pemberton.

To ensure a great start to the day, the host serves up a delicious spread for breakfast (eggs done to your liking, bacon, ham, toast, tomato, cereal, fruits, juice, coffee, tea). And for company, the host's got a friendly and playful dog.

Reviews on Loaring Place B&B from Google Places

These are seven reviews we have received on our site on Google Places. I thought I would share them around a bit further.

Franco ‎ - a month ago

Nice little spot just out of town. Rooms were of a good standard, bedding was comfy and clean, in fact my GF and I had one of the best sleeps ever (we're both insomniacs) so it was notable just for that!! Breakfast was... well shall I say as good as the sleep was! Omelettes are absolutely fantastic way to start the day and Dirk's dinner venue suggestions were spot on. Couldn't fault the whole weekend so thanks to all there, highly likely that we'll be back 

Jannene ‎ - a month ago

Margaret River is just a lovely place to get away from it all. With accommodation prices slightly on the high side I found that Loaring Place bed and breakfast very affordable especially the wide selection of breakfast we could choose from. Modern bathroom with the spa bath is always attractive to me. If I would have to pin point anything it would be the blinds in the bathroom need fixing. The surrounds of Loaring Place is lush with endless forest and wild life and Dirk and Pam friendly and inviting, it will be my first choice when I go back to Margaret River. 

B.P. ‎ - a month ago

Got more than I expected. To play golf at nearby Margaret River Golf Club one can´t find a better location to stay and to enjoy Mother Nature (kookaburras, kangaroos, parrots etc.visiting daily), excellent freshly prepared breakfast according to your likings, calm and modern accommodation with far above average TV programming and DVD. Good advice readily availabe by the hosts to spent the time left besides golf including outstanding restaurants and vineyards, caves and interesting places to visit. All nearby. Thanks for a great Australian experience. 

TBFB ‎ - 2 months ago

A wonderful B&B in attractive surroundings. Location was an excellent base to tour the Margaret River area. Facilities were modern, clean and well finished. Service was excellent with a cooked breakfast menu and advice from the owner on touring locations for the day. One of the highlights on the holiday. Thank you. 

Liked: Service, Value

Charmaine ‎ - 3 months ago

Cosy bed and breakfast with well maintained rooms and homely guest lounge. Situated in a quiet area within the bush just minutes from Margaret River town centre. Cooked breakfast was wonderful, and surroundings were nice and peaceful. Thank you Dirk and Pam for having us! 

Bella at Gnarabup Beach

Bella is no surfer dude. Went for a walk along the beach south of the White Elephant Cafe. The surf was really pumping but the reefs break it up so it is quite gentle at the beach. But Bella did not want to go anywhere near the water. she was just happy frolicking in the sand and chasing the odd seagull.

Bella loves a swim in the Margaret River

Bella met a friendly Jack Russel on the way to the Boat Shed but he didn't like swimming. Bella just goes straight in and then waits for me to throw a stick.

 

 

Unfortunately the boat shed on the banks of the Margaret River got burnt down during the November fire but I believe there are moves to rebuild it. It is beautiful stretch of the river and has a shallow rock platform ideal for launching boats and of course going for a swim.
 

Recent guestbook entries

25-4-12
Very relaxing, peaceful &enjoyable- see you again.
 Cheers, Bonnie & Sharon-Perth WA

21-4-12
Fabulous location and time spent here.thank you for your warm and gracious hospitality.
Bill & Harmony, Omaha NE USA

20-4-12
Beautiful surroundings, excellent facilities. We will recommend it to all our friends and family.
Thank you Mark, Lorena

18-4-12
Enjoyed our stay. A great location & place yourself in the middle of it all.
Will be back! Roy & Christine

18-4-12
Highly recommended! Thank you for a pleasant stay!
Monika & HK

15-4-12
Thank you for sharing your lovely BnB. We loved the quiet & beauty of the forest & roos. We hope to see you again!
Eugene & Rebecca. San Deigo.

18-4-12
Thank you Pam, Dirk & Bella for a lovely stay. Breakfast was very nice,
Charlie & Kathy Russo

12-4-12
Dirk, Pam & Bella- This has been one of our most comfortable stays in a BnB. your warmth, caring and special tips on what to see & do in Margaret River made all the difference to our holiday. The high standard of cleanliness and quality & finish of the rooms & bathrooms and the generous breakfasts added to a great homestay! Most importantly, making our 2 year old Sana feel at home here was reassuring for us!
Certainly a place we will recommend to friends!
Ashwani & Anita - Singapore
Avantika, Ashish & Sana - Hong Kong

25-3-12
Dirk, Pam & Bella, Thank you for a lovely, relaxing long weekend! The facilities & service have both been outstanding & I would definitely recommend this place to all of my friends! You will definitely see us again one day!
Donna & Allan -Perth

15-3-12
Thank you both for a very nice stay it was more than we expected and would love to stay again.
Toby & Maureen

13-3-12
Quiet & comfortable- cracking breakfast!
Thank you, Stu & Gina - Hong Kong

4-3-12
What a wonderful stay- very relaxing and it is so great being pampered. Love the bush surrounds, lovely garden and very comfortable! Great,
Kathleen & Max - Kalgoorlie

21-2-12
Dirk, Pam & Bella, Thank you for a wonderful stay, we were pleasantly surprised and should we be back this way we will definitely be back! Great room (comfy bed) great spa! Food was exceptional especially those gorgeous muffins! Thanks again & all the best!
Augusta & Alan - New Zealand

12-2-12
Dirk, Pam &Bella, Thank you for being so hospitable! Beautiful place to stay & great service. Highly recommended, make you feel right at home!
Rob & Kylie

First orchid for the season

The first Bunny Orchid has appeared. We had 12mm of rain and this was obviously enough of an indication for it to flower. Bunny Orchids are always the first orchids to appear but they only last about 3 weeks, then there is a gap before the other orchids start to flower.

Bella given a hamburger by guests

Bella was given a squeaky hamburger toy by guests Joy and Rod, who stayed for two nights. She now drops it at your feet and implores you to throw it.

The hamburger is now her favourite toy supplanting the squeaky rugby ball. Her other toys are two squeaky balls and a squeaky octopus.  She also has a variety of tugs and she never tires of wanting to play.

Sunset at the mouth of the Margaret River

Sunset at the mouth of the Margaret River is always a spectacle.

Sunset at the Mouth of the Margaret River

Sunset at the mouth of the Margaret River is always a spectacle.