Rústicoq, Cowaramup, Western Australia
The blend of an historic property, central location and the convenience of a Stay & Play package make for the ideal wine country retreat whether you’re taking one room or gathering a food-loving crew and taking the whole property. Cowaramup’s original bakehouse, complete with its oven (now more ornamental than practical), is the scene for a stay that has southern hospitality at its core. The property, set back from Bussell Highway, has long been a landmark in a town which trades on its charm as much as its location close to Wilyabrup and many of the region’s founding wineries. This lovingly restored property is the work of the team behind Rustico at Hay Shed Hill, renowned for its seasonal tapas and views over the Hay Shed Hill vineyards, first planted back in the early 1970s. A boutique aesthetic alongside original features slows the pace if you’ve exited the city hours before. While you can simply book a room without the dining add-ons, the packages are crafted for guest experience including transport to and from Rustico. And if your mind wanders to the origin of the name, it’s a reference to a rusted weather vane found during the renovation. Hence, the Rusticoq.
Need to Knows
- Rooms: Four guest rooms, each with a queen bed
- Check-in / Check-out Times: Check in 2 pm, check out 10 am
- Bar fridge
- Private ensuite bathroom
- Smart TV with Netflix
- Access to shared lounge and kitchen
What’s There
After a drive you may want to take a moment after checking in to enjoy the lounge with Republic of Fremantle gin and quality Fever-Tree tonics while you plan the days ahead. While the rooms are comfortable, the property and stay packages are designed to get you out and about.
What’s Around
Centrally located in Cowaramup, there are the classic spots that regular visitors would know, such as the bakehouse. You can also take to spotting as many of the 42 fibreglass cows scattered around town as you can. One of those quirky country activities that you’ll find as many adults as kids undertaking with fierce competition. For those who are here to explore the wealth of cellar doors (there’s over 100 in the region), Cowaramup is the ideal base. It’s just 8 minutes’ drive west to a cluster of Wilyabrup wineries that define the region for many, such as Vasse Felix, Cullen Wines, Juniper Estate and Woodlands. Cowaramup Bay and Gracetown is just 12 minutes’ drive for those who want to infuse some surf into their stay.
Breakfast
Choice abounds at breakfast. You may have opted for the Stay & Play package complete with a gourmet breakfast hamper, or you may choose to take to the well-equipped guests’ kitchen to whip up your own if you’ve grabbed a selection of the region’s best produce. Close by there’s the Cowtown Cafe and Bakeshop, or you may swing into the Red Feather drive-through for your caffeine fix and a jaffle to go.
Eating and Drinking
The Stay & Play packages aren’t just about showcasing Rustico. Expertly planned, guest needs have been anticipated across a stay. A bottle of Vineyard Series Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir NV from Hay Shed Hill is chilled and waiting in the fridge on your arrival. You can choose to toast your stay or keep it for later. A guided tasting experience awaits at West Winds Gin just down the main street, while a $50 voucher is provided for Servo Taphouse where you can grab a casual feed and sample a few of the south-west’s renowned craft beers. Transport in the region is always a concern, whether you’re drawing straws for designated drivers or trying to book a transfer to a winery lunch (which can be expensive and in short supply). Rustico Ride is more than just a pick-up and drop-off. As you’re collected from Rusticoq, the red carpet is literally rolled out. Drivers are restaurant staff, well versed in the region and happiest when they’re able to impart a little bit of local knowledge. Arriving at Hay Shed Hill, you start with a cellar door tasting before a leisurely lunch that highlights both seasonality and the quality of Margaret River wines.
Children
Not suitable for babies or children under 12.
Notes
Want to stay more than two nights? Additional nights can be booked for just $199. A seasonal Hunt & Lunch package is available during the black season, which includes a truffle hunt at The Margaret River Truffle Farm before a truffle degustation lunch for two.