Want to be right at the centre of the Margaret River action?

There is one major choice to be made for visitors to Margaret River. 

Given it is a three-hour drive from Perth you are likely to need accommodation for at least a couple of nights (and for several to explore this beautiful region properly).

So do you want to stay out in the vineyards? Or where the restaurants and bars are, in Margaret River township. 

My preference is to have a long lunch at one of the many excellent winery restaurants (Voyager Estate, Leeuwin Estate, Vasse Felix, Hay Shed Hill, Cullen, Knee Deep, Aravina Estate and Xanadu among them) and then spend my evenings in town, where there are plenty of options right on the doorstep and driving is not necessary.

A new discovery (for me, anyway) is the delightful Traill apartments, directly above The Dome eatery and across the road from the Margaret River Visitors Centre. 

Whether you want to dine at Muster or Swings Taphouse, enjoy a beer or a glass of wine at one of the two pubs, or sample a range of ethnic foods, everything is but a stroll away. 

Deco Aparttment bedroom

Known as the Deco and Marine penthouses at The Traill, the two apartments are in contrasting styles but both beautifully equipped for a short- or long-term stay, including for self-catering. 

Housed in a French provincial-style building to reflect the South West’s connection with the French explorers, the two upmarket penthouses each have two bedrooms and plenty of room in which to relax and entertain.

The Deco Penthouse has a classical Art Deco style with French doors leading out to an expansive terrace that's ideal for a late afternoon aperitif or a cocktail party, while the Marine Penthouse has blue and white decor, French shutters and a definite seaside vibe.

Marine Apartment lounge 

Both are equipped with air conditioning, TV and DVD systems, cooking facilities, wi-fi, laundry facilities, Foxtel channels, private phones and bath/shower/spa in each en suite bathroom.

This adults-only accommodation features luxurious king-size beds and is surprisingly quiet given the location - and also has its own off-street parking. 

The Traill, 99 Bussell Highway, Margaret River, 6285. (0409109241). www.thetraill.com.au. There is a two-night minimum stay requirement.