Nestled within dense Karri bushland on 265 acres of private property Empire Retreat certainly paints a picture of total relaxation and opulence. With its twisting driveway bordered by wild lilies this luxury spa getaway is sure to have you feeling invigorated from the moment you arrive. Reception is housed in a renovated 25-year-old character farm-house also encompassing a large communal... more

We honeymooned at the Empire Retreat and Spa for 4 nights in March of 2007. We had an amazing time. We were upgraded to the best room upon arrival and 'best' was a great way to describe it. Clean, beautifully designed with a fabulous private outdoor shower and a delightful view. The staff were so helpful and friendly. Breakfast is... more

I have stayed at my fair share of hotels - I have (over)paid for luxurious minimalism in Barcelona, revelled in brothel-style decor in Singapore and kitsh-chic in Brussels - but the Empire comes very close to being the nicest place I have ever stayed. After driving down from Perth (and following what was (in retrospect) an amusing but extended interlude... more

Stayed for 1 night in July07. We stayed in a deluxe room with a spa and balcony. Room was lovely, spacious, with an outside decking area and an outdoor shower. Property had a rural, quiet and relaxing feel to it. Staff were really friendly when checking in. The comunal lounge area had complimentary cake in the afternoon which was a... more

My husband and I stayed at this retreat two weeks ago for a 2 night stay at $A220 per night. It was WONDERFUL. However note there are two types of rooms, the ones inside the farm house and private ones outside the farm house. We had one of the two rooms inside the farm house which were hotel style rooms... more

My partner and I recently returned from an almost 3 week trip to Australia and visited the Margaret River area with 2 friends from Sydney. We chose the Empire Retreat partly based upon their research and partly because it is included in the Andrew Harpers Hideaway list--and we've generally had success at those properties in the past. Generally, we stay... more

Empire gets everything right - the ambience and design, the service and the food are all simply perfect. It was an absolute pleasure to stay here. The service is memorable - Clare has to be oe of the best breakfast waitresses in the world!! (The breakfast itself is also memorable). It's a beautiful place and there are lots of lovely... more

This sort of place is great value for money, even though it is a bit pricey. At around $300AU a night, it's absolutely worth it. Rooms are well done and private and most seem to have some enclosed outdoor space. Service is impeccable, friendly and self assured. No hesitation in recommending this one. more

We booked the Empire Retreat based on a recommendation from a friend, and it is probably one of the nicest - if not the nicest, place we have ever stayed. Although the rooms can be a little pricy, I believe it was worth every penny. You arrive by a winding driveway up to the main house, which is secluded from... more