Stayed with my wife over xmas. Was a nice stay.

The rooms tick all the right boxes (well, we were in the little chalet rooms which are like self contained houses).

Outdoor shower is always a fav of mine...check. Nice tub, jacuzzi style if you like the jets. Minibar fridge and kitchen sink and microwave with some cutlery and plates should you opt to be eating in (smart - you can then sit on your back patio and watch the sunset while drinking your tasty Margaret River wines). Fireplace - although it was warm when we were there but would be a nice touch in the winter months.

My wife used the spa twice and can vouch for it being a good experience - but book early or if you put it off your menu of selections will start to get limited.

Staff was nice and we scored a very nice late checkout (as we had a midnight flight out of Perth) - that enabled us to un around that last day and do more shopping. Much appreciated.

Free wireless internet in your room - thank you Empire for not nickel and diming us!

Nespresso coffee maker in room with a couple free capsules a day - nice touch (not a 'proper' espresso but it does the job in a pinch).

Breakfasts were ok - I gather they used to be a lot more extensive. The catch here, hope you like eggs as the cooked breakfast was 5 versions of egg recipes - 2 omelettes, 1 fried version, 1 feta cheese on toast version and one poached option. There is yogurt and meusli however.

Good location just outside Dunsborough for picking up supplies although you can hear a bit of the road noise as it is in the valley by the main road (Caves) - tip; spend as little time on Caves as you can and drive the back roads. No one down here drives the speed limit on that road and you can't pass.

We just returned from a four night stay at Empire Spa Retreat, and would definitely recommend it. It is a really nicely designed property, with great interiors (if you like the style, you can go to the Empire shop in Dunsborough and buy some furniture for yourself!).

We stayed in Room 6, which is within the main building, upstairs. I believe it is the cheapest room that they have, and our only slightly negative feedback relates to that. The bathroom and toilet are not to the standard we expected for this price (we were paying Peak Season prices of $330 per night). They are fine; clean, tidy and of decent size - it's just that you expect a new (within last 3 years) renovation that would match the rest of the property, and the impression from the Web site.

But don't let this deter you, it was only a minor item in an otherwise lovely property!

The breakfasts are fantastic, and served in a great light-filled room overlooking the trees, olive plantation and vineyard. The staff are very friendly, and other guests too.

Would definitely recommend Empire Spa Retreat - but maybe splash for the more expensive rooms if you are a bathroom snob.

My husband and I booked Empire for New Year and we loved it. We were upgraded to a luxury villa which was amazing and so peaceful with beautiful views out over the Estate. We lounged around in the farmhouse and most of the time we never saw another person. It was almost too quiet! :) Breakfast was delicious and the kitchen is incredibly well stocked with all the utensils you would need to cook your own lunch and supper, including a big BBQ. Our room had an outdoor shower which we didn't manage to use but I'm sure it would be lovely. We did use the spa bath though and that was so nice! We played pool in the billiards room, relaxed in the lounge, read books on our day bed and enjoyed afternoon tea each day which was lovely homemade muffins. Sadly the spa was fully booked but we'd love to try it if we go back again. Empire is definitely not cheap and it's a real treat for most I'm sure but if it's pure relaxation and comfort that you're after then this is your place!

We have been to Empire many times now and were very happy to return. The gardens and sense of calm and tranquility remain the greatest attractions. It is the perfect place to try to forget the stresses of work. There are fewer special services that you might wish for at this price (in fact there are hardly any) and the options at breakfast seem to have shrunk dramatically but overall it remains a great choice for anyone trying to find a restful break near the sea.