If you’re planning on jumping on one of the brand-new direct Jetstar flights from Sydney to Busselton Margaret River, Ampersand Estates is where you’ll want to stay when you arrive. The three-times-weekly service will launch on March 26th, 2024 and will make Australia’s South West much more accessible to Sydney-siders. Not that you need another excuse to explore the gorgeous region celebrated for its enchanting forests, world-class wineries, and magnificent scenic drives.

Stay

Nestled amongst vibrant gardens and fruit trees, Ampersand Estates is where luxury meets unparalleled natural beauty. The breathtaking estate is located near the South West town of Pemberton — a destination synonymous with towering trees and picturesque valleys. An added convenience is that it’s only one hour by car from Busselton Margaret River Airport — the perfect home away from home for those looking for a getaway in nature, but don’t want to compromise on luxury. 

Each of the three premium private residences — Settlers’ Cottage, The Homestead, and Vitner’s Residence — combine country charm with classic Hamptons style. From the white weatherboarding and timber features to the brown leather couches, the fittings are both elegant and dreamy — enough to convince you to stay forever.

With two of the homes each featuring five ensuite bedrooms, lofty kitchen and dining spaces, outdoor entertainment areas, fireplaces, and a small library, Ampersand Estates well and truly fits the brief when it comes to an exclusive, intimate, off-the-grid nature escape. Whether you’re staying with your partner or a larger group of friends and family, the location on the doorstep of the breathtaking Southern Forests region is unrivalled with hundreds of hidden gems and natural phenomena to explore. 

The estate also features a collection of opulent offerings to elevate your stay. With a resident cellar door and distillery on the property, days will be spent indulgently. You’ll also dip your toes into wellness and spa offerings, with an assortment of beauty treatments and packages available for a healthy dose of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. If you really want to spoil yourself and leave the work to the professionals, there’s the option to hire a private chef from the renowned culinary establishment, Rockpool Bar & Grill. It’s safe to say you’ll want to stay here forever. But, if you do manage to tear yourself away from the blissful paradise that is Ampersand, the property is a gateway to pristine beaches, fine wineries, and hidden truffières.

Wine

When it comes to ways to while away the hours, a visit to the resident Rainfall Distillery and winery cellar door is a must. Bound by the Donnelly River and ancient Karri forests of Easter National Park, Rainfall Distillery is located at the exquisite Ampersand Estates. Here, you can embark on a tasting experience that’s equal parts entertaining and educational, hosted by the owners of Ampersand. This isn’t your typical rushed format, but rather a slow, almost degustation-like journey through Ampersand’s premium artisanal vodka, gin, and wine range. Settle into the comfort of the outdoor Cellar Door lounges while you’re guided through a tasting. You’ll also learn about the distilling process — which incorporates 16 copper plates, rainwater captured in the Southern Forests, and fresh and seasonal produce from local farmers — how to pair the different spirits, and when to drink them. 

For a gourmet picnic and cellar door experience, you couldn’t be in a better place. Ampersand and picnics are like two peas from the same pod, and who doesn’t love a picnic? You can enjoy a full private wine, gin, and vodka tasting experience, thoughtfully paired with a gourmet Southern Forests lunch hamper, personalised table setup, and a bottle of your choice of wine from the cellar door.

Dine

Elevate your nature escape with the culinary genius of your very own private chef. At Ampersand Estates, you can indulge in one of the South West’s most exquisite dining experiences, without leaving the comfort of your own space. What more could you possibly want? One of Australia’s most highly-rated steak restaurants, Rockpool Bar & Grill has exclusively partnered with Ampersand Estates to bring you an extraordinary fine dining experience. For an unmatched blend of luxury and fine dining, let Executive Chef Brendan Owens curate your own personalised menu using locally sourced, seasonal produce. Each menu showcases a line-up of fresh produce in a custom-crafted celebration of the changing seasons. Expect flavour combinations starring succulent marron, fragrant black truffles, and exquisite Lake Janis beef.

Reconnect

The exquisitely beautiful estate works in harmony with the natural surroundings, delivering immersive holistic treatments to pamper, restore, and revitalise your mind, body, and soul. Spend a day luxuriating in the wealth of wellness and spa packages on offer at Ampersand. Expect everything from massage therapy and kinesiology, to sound bathing, nature healing, and yoga sessions. You can rest assured, knowing you’re in good hands.

From the mesmerising natural landscape surrounding the property to the several national parks nearby, if walking or hiking is your thing, there couldn’t be a better place for it. Check out the Donnelly River Walk, Forrest Walk, and Ampersand Trail on the property.

Lock in your off-the-grid nature escape

Now that the direct flights from Sydney to Busselton are live, there’s no better time to explore the accommodation on offer at Ampersand Estates. If you’re already sold — and why wouldn’t you be — visit their website to book.