margaret river

Summer at Smiths

April 9, 2023

Photography – Bobby Bense | Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Smiths Beach Resort

Recommended tours – Sailing Charters WA | South West Eco Discoveries | Lake Cave

Smiths beach is arguably the best beach in the Margaret River region, a region dotted with incredible white sand beaches. What makes Smiths stand apart is its grand topography. It has a very long stretch of pristine beach with breathtaking national park as a backdrop. No matter how busy it might get, there is always a private space to enjoy. Head south and explore the hidden rock pools along the cape to cape track or north for surfing and dolphin spotting. As the sun goes down, enjoy a beach picnic from the beach, the staircase viewing platforms, or right from your very own balcony at Smiths Beach Resort.

Our top choice of accommodation for this vast region is always Smiths Beach Resort. We’ve been visiting for many years now and it continues to impress. There are many room options from budget friendly to pure luxury, all self contained, serviced and beautifully designed for relaxation in mind. Their dedication to sustainability is another reason we love this resort. Utilising the power of the sun with 270 solar panels, this is part of a continued effort to minimise their carbon footprint, increase water conservation, and protect the surrounding nature and wildlife.

Smiths is ideally located between popular towns, landmarks, beaches, wineries, restaurants and tours. Within walking distance is the Aquarium, a lagoon rock pool around 20-30 minutes hike south along the magnificent cape to cape track. The journey is just as beautiful as the destination. Read my travel tips below on how to prepare when visiting this spot.

Within 10-20 minutes drive you can visit Dunsborough, which is a hub for cafes and restaurants, boutique shopping and right on the beach of Geographe bay. Visit the ancient, subterranean caves; my personal favourite is Lake cave, which is a crystal wonderland. Set sail with Sailing Charters WA for the most scenic way to experience this coastline. It’s a small tour of max 6 people that takes you along the sheltered waters from Dunsborough to Eagle bay. Stop for a swim along the way at Castle Rock. Snorkel, swim or float on the tubes in crystal clear, turquoise water that could be mistaken for the Maldives.

For world class surfing you have multiple options from Smiths beach resort. Surf right there at Smiths, head 5 minutes away to Yallingup beach, 30 minutes north to Windmills or approx 30-40 minutes south to Gracetown or Surfers point. You can also check out Injidup for great surf or head to the natural spa for a soak, only a 10 minute drive from Smiths or approx 1.5 hour stunning hike.

The Margaret River region is a nature lovers dream. It’s teeming with wildlife, marine life and stunning flora. One of our favourite tours anytime of the year is the Woylies nocturnal tour with South West Eco Discoveries. They’re doing great things to help rehabilitate wildlife in this sanctuary zone and it offers a chance to get close and personal with some truly adorable animals. If you have dreamt of feeding and petting a wild kangaroo then this is for you. It will pull on all your heartstrings. All the kangaroos here have been rescued which is why you can touch and feed them here. Please do not attempt this in the wild.

For marine life keep your eyes peeled at Smiths beach for dolphins. From June – December keep a look out for migrating whales. Augusta and Castle rock are both great vantage points for whale spotting. For stingrays head out early to Hamelin bay where you’ll find them dotting the shoreline.

For the foodies and wine aficionados, you are in the Mecca of it right here. On the resort grounds of Smiths is Lamonts, with the best curated selection of wines you’ll find, and food created by an absolute genius in the kitchen, Kate Lamont. My favourite wineries in the area, all relatively close by, are Wise Wines, Cape Lodge, Gralyn Estate and Vasse Felix. My favourite restaurants are Meelup Farmhouse for breakfast, Glenarty Road for lunch, and Amelia Park lodge, Aravina Estate and Casina for dinner. Casina has an extensive vegan menu available as well. My last recommendation would be to stop at Eagle bay Olives for some of the regions best olives. When you’re done enjoying wines, indulging in artesian foods, and salty from your ocean adventures, you can be greeted by the comfort and relaxation waiting for you at Smiths beach resort.

Here are some of my personal travel tips for the region –

Plan a rough itinerary for your trip, especially in summer time, as tours and restaurants get booked out.
Head out early to see any of the popular spots like the Aquarium, Injidup natural spa, Canal rocks, Sugarloaf, Castle rock. In summer everywhere is very busy. If you walk around the corner of many of these spots though you’ll find your own quiet pocket of paradise, so make sure to explore.
Check winds to determine which side of Cape Naturaliste is going to be better for your activities planned.
Take a first aid kit, reusable water bottle, and appropriate footwear on all hikes. Keep an eye out for wildlife. We’ve spotted echidnas along the cape to cape track from Smiths beach to the Aquarium.
Take all your rubbish when you exit, and leave nature as you found it.
The Aquarium doesn’t have facilities so go early and go prepared with water, food and all your beach essentials. Make sure to bring your snorkel gear and underwater camera. Water shoes come in handy here as well.
Don’t try to see it all. It takes time on your first visit to the Margaret River region to get a lay of the land. Slow down, enjoy it and its many unexpected surprises. Just know that you can see more of it next time. I have been more times than I can count now and I still have so many more places I want to explore.
Bring a kayak or paddle board if you have one. Paddle anywhere along Geographe Bay and you can spots dolphins and sting rays along the way. Castle rock is my personal favourite.
Please be careful of king waves and tide changes, especially at Injidup Natural Spa. You can’t always tell when a huge wave will come crashing over. I’ve seen it go from super calm to dangerous in seconds.
Be mindful driving at dawn or dusk as kangaroos will be very active and we always see them along the side of the road. They can quickly jump in front of you so drive slowly along the roads especially at night.

And while there is so much to see and do, you’ll find that staying at Smiths beach resort is an experience in itself. You may not want to go anywhere as the resort and beach offer so much relaxation and a back to nature experience while enjoying a little luxury.

Much love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Green Park Retreat

February 28, 2022

Photography – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Green Park Retreat/Margaret River Properties | Sugarloaf Rock | Yallingup

Outfits – 100 Degree Dress | Swim | Hat

Health & Lifestyle – Fillup Club Lazy Chair XXL | Naturecan CBD oil products

Travelling can be challenging at times, pushing us out of our comfort zone, but it’s there we discover the most precious of gems, both outside and within ourselves.

This was my first solo trip of the year and overall utterly spectacular. It started off with everything falling into place with ease, quickly descending into absolute chaos with my equipment breaking and unexpected winds. After a minute of anxiety I found my calm and present state. Like a wave rising and falling, I was soon back in the trough and flow. That is how travel so often goes, teaching us so much along the way – resilience, patience, presence, connection.

My stay at Green Park Retreat was beyond expectations. This beautifully designed, luxurious 4-bed home is set amongst the stunning Margaret River bush land. I was surrounded by wildlife and bird song. At sunrise and sunset it was the melody that soothed my weary soul. This space is one of the most serene and peaceful places I’ve stayed.

It’s ideally situated between two of my favourites destinations down south – Yallingup and Dunsborough. It was under a 15 minute drive to both spots and pretty much everywhere I wanted to explore. The region is filled with so much to see from world class wineries to art, and pristine lagoons, rock pools, beaches and surf. Green Park Retreat was such a comforting space to return to and unwind after all my adventures. I spent my downtime floating in the pool on my new luxurious and sustainable pool float/outdoor furniture and having lovely picnics in the garden. And for a little extra nourishment I took the opportunity to try out some amazing high quality Naturecan CBD oil products. I can now fully attest to their efficacy, particularly if you have any inflammatory conditions. I’ve noticed almost instant relief of my shoulder/toe aches using the CBD Joint Balm.

On my final evening ready to pack up after a lovely sunset, I noticed the sky begin to glow and turn an orange tone. I was honestly a little worried as there had been some bushfires in the region a few weeks earlier. It had a very eerie feel about it. As I watched, the sky began to shift into all shades of pink and purple. This was like nothing I had ever seen before. At the time I didn’t understand why or how this was even happening. I later discovered that the ash from the recent Tonga volcano eruption was making its rounds through WA skies, creating these long lasting pastel sunsets. While it was clearly caused by such a tragic event, nature was once again surprising me with its raw beauty and reminding me why I don’t need to watch TV.

As my trip came to an end there was still one spot on my radar. I’ve tried to visit Sugarloaf Rock multiple times, to swim in the those beautiful turquoise waters, and it was always so wild and windy. With a whole lot of luck and serendipity on my side, right before I was about to head back home, everything finally aligned. It was calm NE winds and the seas were sparkling and flat. There wasn’t another soul in sight. I was overjoyed and headed for my long awaited swim. It was everything I had hoped for and more. I couldn’t help but smile and giggle out loud like a child. As soon as I hiked back up to the car park I noticed car loads of people turning up and the winds shifting.

Travel is not always so aligned, but it’s always worth the effort for that pure joy and wonder that is absolutely priceless. You never know what treasures you will find. Travel is forever teaching me about myself. It’s bringing me closer to my true nature, reflecting who I am.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Springtime at Smiths

November 9, 2021

Photography/Editing – Bobby Bense | Helen Janneson Bense

Locations – Smiths Beach Resort | Yallingup | Castle Rock | Lavender Tea House

Outfits – Isla Sol Sunset Kimono | Gemini Mint Paisley Maxi Dress | Jasmine Maxi Dress | Spell Folksong Dress

Hats | Picnic | Swimwear

In WA right now we’re enjoying Kambarang, the Noongar season, signalling the return of warmer weather. There’s an abundance of colour, vibrant wildflowers are popping everywhere, reptiles are emerging from hibernation, and Koolbardies (magpies) are singing and swooping, protecting their nests.

What a magical time of year it was to visit Smiths Beach. This makes our sixth visit to Smiths Beach Resort and it was by far one of the most unique and best family trips we’ve had. After months of hefty rainfall nature was exploding with colour, vibrancy, health and beauty. Situated right by a national park, with the most beautiful beach on it’s doorstep, we had front row seats to nature’s magnificence. We woke up to pastel sunrise skies, double rainbows, and watched the golden rays of sunset sparkle over the ocean.

While the weather was oscillating between sunny and stormy, we made the very best of our time. Our children are adventurers and wild at heart like their parents, so we had no trouble motivating them to brave the wild weather with us. From snorkelling to surfing to rock climbing we did it all, rain, hail or shine. Our children are enthusiastic indoor rock climbers and they absolutely love this place because there are so many perfectly formed boulders that are just the right kind of challenge to climb without the need for a harness. Jade is also a keen surfer and had a wonderful surfing lesson with Crystal from Yallingup Surf School, who was such a kind and skilled surf instructor. Yallingup lagoon is a beautiful and safe spot to learn to surf. The kids all had a blast and caught some great waves :)

We always make sure to pack wetsuits and snorkelling gear no matter the time of year and head to our favourite spot, ‘The Aquarium’, a natural, large mermaid pool just a 20 minute hike from Smiths beach resort. It’s great for a snorkel, and the walk itself is breathtaking. You’ll spot wildflowers and wildlife along the way, and have the best ocean views you could dream of. Another spot we love to hike along the cape to cape track is at Castle Rock. It’s also another great bouldering spots for the kids. There were loads of wildflowers on this walk and so many rainbows! It also happens to be a great place to whale watch too, as migrating humpbacks head back south this time of year.

We lucked out with some beautiful sunshine too and enjoyed a glorious picnic by the lake at Windows Estate. It’s a signature Smiths Beach Resort experience that I highly recommend. We were surrounded by nature, soaking up the the ambient sounds of wildlife, warmed by a toasty, crackling fire, indulging in the most delicious plant based feast. It was so cosy and a lovely balance to our adventure filled days. We all had such a fun afternoon. It turned out to be such a great family bonding experience.

When the sunshine came out we headed poolside for some relaxation at Smiths Beach Resort. It’s the most comfortable, luxurious place to return after a day of forest and ocean adventures. Everything is so easy, effortless, the rooms are so well designed, and the beds feel like you’re floating on a cloud. My favourite moment is at sunrise, making tea, popping the fire on, opening the blinds and soaking up that calm sunrise stillness from the balcony, my excitement for the possibilities of the day brewing.

In every season Smiths Beach has something magical to offer. It’s full of experiences for all; wild adventure, relaxation, nature, food and wine, history, culture. Every time I visit I fall more in love with this region of WA and look forward to the next trip!

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Infinity Chalet

March 8, 2021

Photography – Bobby Bense/Helen Janneson Bense

Editing – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Margaret River, Western Australia

Where to stay – Infinity Chalet – just a 3 hour drive south of Perth

Outfit Details – One piece (similar) | High Low Skirt (similar) | Jasmine Strappy Mini Dress

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a bestie adventure, or solo retreat then look no further than this immaculately and luxuriously appointed chalet. Every attention to detail is considered and you will leave feeling well rested, rejuvenated and content.

Infinity Chalet is perfectly situated on the picturesque Margaret River, a short drive to the river mouth and the breathtaking Surfers Point. A wonderful spot for the whole family, with swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, rock pool exploring and surfing.

We decided to do some off road exploring on this trip and discovered some of the most secluded and exquisite rock pools and beaches. We couldn’t believe there weren’t any crowds as it was the height of summer school holidays. It just goes to show there is a little slice of paradise for everyone here in this region. I’m not going to geotag and share the exact location of these spots as I feel they are most likely some local gems. I will say that it is worth exploring those off the beaten path tracks and always walking around that next corner.

After our days of exploring we welcomed the comfort and luxury of Infinity chalet. We loved the steam shower and stunning spa bath with that amazing sunset view. We spent our evenings unwinding with a plant based, sunset picnic overlooking Margaret river, enjoying the peaceful vibes of the fireplace before melting into their luxurious king bed.

If you can’t already tell we really loved our stay here. It was faultless and I look forward to the next visit.

With love and gratitude, Helen xx

Retreat at Smiths

October 3, 2020

Photography – Bobby Bense & Helen Janneson Bense

Editing – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Smiths Beach Resort | Yallingup | Castle Rock – Western Australia

Bare & Wilde Love & Light Wellness Retreat – Email HERE to find out about the next one

Outfits – Rihanna Maxi Dress | Salsa Leora Dress |Matching Hi Lo Skirt + Swimwear |Embroidered Paradise Dress | Seaside Long Dress

Picnic Setup – Namastay Tipi Picnics | Plant Based Food by Valerie Gamer and Jessica Lowe | Vegan platter Lamonts

A retreat at Smiths Beach was an idea that instantly felt right. Having spent so much time at this beach and this immaculate resort, it’s become a home away from home. It’s tranquillity and back to nature environment is something I’ve really needed this year, like so many of us.

The retreat was above and beyond everything we needed. We feasted, we shared, and we connected, with ourselves, with nature and one another. There is something so powerful about women sharing. When we create safe spaces, free of judgement, and find the courage to share, we instantly give permission for others to share. We begin a circle of hearing one another with compassion and empathy. The healing power of sharing in this way is immeasurable and incredibly profound. I always walk away from these experiences feeling empowered by the bonds of sisterhood, and awakened to my own inner courage to face my fears and step into discomfort. What I always discover is that on the other side of discomfort is absolute peace and joy. I’m learning how to make friends with my uncomfortable feelings, allowing and embracing my anxieties and fears. I loved being able to facilitate a safe sharing space and look forward to doing this more within our community.

Our days were filled with retreat activities from beach walks, meditation, aromatherapy, plant based cooking, abstract art, feasting, hiking, yoga, creative conversations, sharing sunsets and sound healing with the amazing Julian Silburn. Julian’s healing magic is something I hope everyone gets to experience. He truly is a modern day shaman.

I am so grateful to our amazing, talented chefs; Valerie and Jessica who created plant based deliciousness for us all, and shared their inspirational journeys. We enjoyed the most beautiful array of wholesome, real, soul foods, all presented so beautifully. It was nourishing and healing on all levels.

During our wonderful retreat we stayed in the amazing 3-bed ocean view villa with breathtaking ocean views overlooking the pool. Each evening I’d watch the sunset from the comfort of my villa, enjoy a long luxurious bath, sip on delicious tea by the fire, and melt into a deep sleep in the most peaceful bed. Smiths Beach Resort really is the perfect place for retreat and relaxation.

After the retreat my family and I stayed on for a few more days to explore some local spots. We hiked the Cape to Cape trail once again, though this time we had an entirely new experience. We encountered a colourful array of wildflowers, a very friendly echidna and a bobtail lizard. The trail hugs the coastline and all paths lead to turquoise water. We always stop at our favourite lagoon, the Aquarium, for a snorkel and to enjoy the views. All you need are good walking shoes, lots of water, some nutrient dense snacks, wetsuit, towel, warm clothes, snorkel gear and first aid is always important whenever you travel remote. And don’t forget your camera because there are so many spots to take photos along the walk and when you arrive at the beach.

Another amazing spot we enjoyed was Castle Rock in Dunsborough, a 20 minute drive from Smiths Beach Resort. The weather was in our favour this day. Calm seas, crystal clear water, and sunshine made for the perfect combination for some stand up paddle boarding. While I paddled and looked for whales, my family enjoyed climbing all the giant boulders. They are all really into bouldering, something they do multiple times per week at home, so this was such a happy spot for us all. And while I didn’t see any whales, the views, the warmth, and the family connection were all filling me with so much gratitude for this day.

In between sunsets, hikes, supping and climbing, were all the quieter moments; moments of connection like preparing food together as a family, playing cards by the fireplace, sharing jokes, and braiding each others hair. It was so wonderful to enjoy this slow time together in the luxurious ambience of Smiths Beach Resort.

I’m filled with the deepest gratitude as always to the wonderful Smiths Beach Resort for hosting us. It’s always a phenomenal experience staying with you and we love you! Thank you to the amazing Amy from Bare and Wilde for organising and holding space for such a smooth, healing, empowering and relaxing retreat. My heart is overflowing with love. Sending a huge wave of love vibes out to you all :)

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Looking for Rainbows

April 15, 2020

Photography – Bobby Bense

Styling/Editing – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Smiths Beach Resort

Outfit details

Clothing – Tiare Hawaii Brooklyn Dress | Spell Organic Ruched Skirt + Wild Love Robe | Astars Soiree Wide Leg Pants

Swim – Camilla Lunar Gazing one piece

Jewelry – Spell Wild Love Gold Locket Necklace

Beach Picnic – Setup and Styling Meekohontas | Vegan Grazing + Cakes – The Art of Grazing + Simply Rawjus | Dried Flower installations – Lush Petals Co

It’s been over a month since our family trip to Smiths Beach resort and wow how things have changed. In such uncertain times, I’ve found peace in knowing what is most important to me and being forever grateful for that. I’ve been focused on my day to day, being present with my family, while looking forward with a positive mindset, remembering there is always a rainbow after the storm.

Even though it was awhile ago now I wanted to share a little about our wonderful and much needed stay at the magnificent Smiths Beach resort. It’s safe to say we have picked favourites when it comes to traveling in the Margaret river region. Smiths stands out for location and luxury. It’s centrally located for the the surfer and the mermaid, the foodie and the wine connoisseur, the adventurer and those seeking retreat. The resort is just a stones throw from the most spectacular turquoise beach that carries it’s own special magic.

Located in Yallingup, Smiths is our family’s favourite place to stay. This was our fourth visit in just a few years and I can’t imagine it would be our last. Under a 3 hour drive from Perth, it’s the ideal getaway. It’s secluded, yet so close to all the wineries, breweries, restaurants and local art; you can pick and choose your culinary and artisan experiences. Or spend your day surfing, snorkelling or supping in these pristine waters. And end it with a sunset picnic on the beach and watch the sky turn all shades of the rainbow.

This trip in particular was so needed for our family. We started this year with tragedy as we watched helplessly as my parents home town was ravaged by bushfire and my parents lives were at risk. It was weeks of stress and worry that we didn’t even realise was taking a toll on our health. Soon after our daughter, Jade, became very ill and it’s been months of no sleep, doctor and hospital visits, and heart ache. She’s thankfully on the mend now but her road to recovery will take some time and she is still very vulnerable, particularly her lungs. Now as Covid-19 spreads through our world it’s more important than ever for us to focus on family, health and home. These changing and uncertain times have everyone on edge and the loss of lives and livelihoods around the world has been heartbreaking.

One thing I’ve realised is there is no right way for any of us to be feeling right now. We are experiencing a collective trauma. And it’s HUGE! It’s ok not to feel ok. You are allowed to feel sad, anxious, scared, depressed and you’re allowed to feel positive and be productive and motivated. Whatever your way of managing this situation is, it’s ok. We are not alone. We are all in this together. And everyones struggles matter and deserve empathy. Please reach out and ask for help if you are struggling.

Emotionally I’ve had to draw upon many tools to manage my anxiety. One of the most important steps has been identifying and embracing my emotions as they arise. I’m giving myself time and compassion to feel. I’m being easy on myself, observing and letting go of my inner judgements. I’ve witnessed my own past personal traumas surrounding “feeling unsafe” triggered once more. I’ve been practising mindfulness each day to stay in the present. I’m easing my mind accepting ‘what is’ rather than entering into a lot of ‘what if’ scenarios that generate more anxiety and fear. I’m finding gratitude for all that I have, rather than what I don’t.

Right now we can show our gratitude for those risking their lives to save ours by staying home, socially distancing and practicing proper hygiene. I feel incredibly blessed to have a safe home, to be in ISO with my family, to have my health, nutritious food, and to have found solace in creating art and music. We have health care warriors risking their lives every single day so we can be safe. There are homeless people, those who have lost everything, their livelihood, their purpose, their loved ones. Those who suffer violence in their home and have no safe space. This is a serious tragedy. One we are all a part of. Our main collective task right now is to STAY HOME and it’s ok if that is all we can do. Many will struggle deeply with the loss of life our world is experiencing. Not everyone will be able to turn their stay at home experience into a positive or productive one. Be easy, be kind, and be loving to your self during this time. Let go of the inner judgements. If all you can do is stay home, please know that is enough. If you can, try and focus on a few simple joys each day. Some ideas might be implementing a daily self care routine, playing dress ups and board games, music and dancing, painting and cooking, taking a neighbourhood nature walk (if allowed) and listening to bird song, looking at the clouds form shapes and the twinkling, starry night sky. Our family started a new tradition of picnics on the lawn where we say 3 things we are grateful for each day, which inevitably opened the discussion for more gratitude and those 3 things quickly turned into 20.

In the meantime let’s also remember the small businesses that are struggling, and try and support them where we can. Order from small businesses online and order produce from your local green grocer. Many are doing deliveries during this time and need our support. And when this has passed let’s book that trip and visit all the places we’ve dreamt of during ISO. I know Smiths beach will always be top of our list along with visiting my parents. Where in the world are you dreaming of when this is over?

For now take great CARE, stay WELL, and so much LOVE,

Helen xx

Helen Janneson Bense

margaret river

Summer at Smiths

April 9, 2023

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Green Park Retreat

February 28, 2022

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Springtime at Smiths

November 9, 2021

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Infinity Chalet

March 8, 2021

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Retreat at Smiths

October 3, 2020

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Looking for Rainbows

April 15, 2020

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