Luxury Escapes Guide to The Murray River
Winding waterways, impressive wine regions, vast dark skies and more. Uncover it all and go with the flow along the mighty Murray River – a place for those who want a little more
All eyes are on the Murray River region – a stunning, natural playground where free-flowing waters meet with towering limestone cliffs, spellbinding nature reserve, and glittering night skies stretch as far as the eye can see.
Here, natural beauty, local produce and friendly wildlife are all ready and waiting. Take your pick from Swan Reach, Coorong or Walker Flat, Murray Bridge, Morgan and Renmark to Waikerie or beyond. Or, trace your way along 500km of Riverland to ensure no stone is left unturned.
Stay for one night or one week and embrace the beauty this sprawling region has to offer as you discover it’s full splendour.
Hero image courtesy of Ben Goode
Featured escapes
Things to see and do
Answer the call of the wild
Who would have guessed that the largest safari park outside of Africa was hidden in the far reaches of South Australia… Located just an hour from the Adelaide CBD, Monarto Safari Park spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to over 50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles. Explore the park by hopping on the free Zu-loop bus or trekking along the extensive network of walking tracks. For an extra-special visit, you can experience Australia’s only 360-degree lion encounter which gives you a prey’s eye view into the world of these mighty predators. Or, become a zookeeper for a day and secure an animal encounter to get up close and personal with giraffes, meerkats, rhinos and chimpanzees.
Toast to a clear conscience
Enjoy a wholesome wine tasting that you can feel good about at Banrock Station Winery. The biodynamic wine producer located in the heart of the Riverland, boasts Ramsar accredited vineyards and wetlands. Every drop matters at Banrock Station where delicious tipples are produced without the need for harsh chemicals. Plus, profits from each sale are invested in protecting and preserving the planet. More than just a winery, Banrock Station also houses over 1,000 hectares of wetlands, providing a habitat for over 17,000 native plants, animals and threatened birdlife.
Feel the need for speed
Prepare to rev your internal engines on this turbo-charged motor racing circuit. The only one of its kind in Australia, The Bend Motorsport Park’s 7.7-kilometre course combines technical corners, fast flowing sections and an aggregate rise and fall of 85metres to ensure a riveting ride. Take the wheel and hold on tight as you experience the thrill of racing around the course in your choice of supercar, feel the wind in your hair on the exhilarating go-karting track or watch as motorsport legends hurtle around the circuit at the annual OTR SuperSprint.
Embrace the great outdoors
Take to Australia’s greatest river and enjoy a heart-pounding spin behind a ski-boat as you try your hand at wakeboarding, knee-boarding and waterskiing. Alternatively, hire a canoe or a bike and explore the rugged scenery from the dry safety of land. Stretching from the state’s mid north-east to the Coorong, the Murray River catchment boasts unlimited trails as well as some spectacular elevated views, that are begging to be explored. Cap off your active visit with a splash in the cascading Mannum Waterfalls and lookout.
Stargaze into sparkling skies
Don’t forget to look up! Home to some of the darkest skies in the world, the 3,200 square kilometre River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve offers unbeatable views of the Milky Way – and is the only reserve of its kind in Australia. The reserve boasts an array of Astro hot spots and viewing areas to watch the luminous sky twinkle in the distance. Stargazers and night sky chasers can admire the sparkling galaxy above Swan Reach, Walker Flat, Punyelroo, Cambrai, Sedan, Purnong or Caurnamont.
Top places to eat and drink
Twenty Third Street Distillery
Sample some of the state’s finest spirits at Remark’s Twenty Third Street Distillery, an award-winning outpost that offers a smorgasbord of spirits crafted from Australian ingredients. Picture a modern twist on brandy, violet or red citrus gin, Australian single malt whisky and rose vodka inspired by the region. Pull up a stool within the history-filled building dating back to 1914 and admire historical charm and contemporary design elements as you absorb views overlooking manicured gardens. Don’t miss your chance to take a behind-the-scenes tour followed by a guided tasting and distil your own bespoke blend or mix your own cocktail with a curated masterclass.
Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery
Perfectly poised on the banks of the Murray River within a 100-year-old woolshed is probably the least likely place you’d have thought to seek out a brewery… and yet it’s where you’ll find some of the best beer this side of the Murray. Amble up to the bar within the cottage built from quarried limestone and ask for a pint of the Rude Ruby or Great Southern Trendkiller. If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to take your pick of the lot and enjoy a tasting paddle of four choice brews. There’s no kitchen onsite, but you can create your own platter from locally sourced fare, bring your own picnic lunch or make use of the riverfront BBQ facilities for an authentic Aussie day at the river. Or, if you venture over on a weekend, you might happen upon one of the rotating food trucks (keep your eyes on their socials for updates!).
Historic Overland Corner Hotel
Cast your mind back to 1856 where the story began for this former drinking hole for drovers and pioneering farmers. Today, this time capsule has a renewed lease on life as one of the Murray River’s unmissable eateries. Grab a table within the charming limestone alfresco area and order the mouthwatering Wagyu Beef Schnitzel – best washed down with one of the many Overland brewed beers on tap.
Rustons Rose Garden and Distillery
Stop and smell the roses at one of the region’s most picturesque watering holes. Located on the fringe of Renmark, Rustons Rose Garden and Distillery produces local swills using only the finest local ingredients. The modern and airy space is open for tastings or cocktails, plus the chance to sample botanical inspired sips among the roses. While you’re there, explore the National Rose collection in the gardens and visit Rustons Cut Flowers to take a stem home with you.
Cucina 837 at Salena
On the forefront of Salena Estate’s expansive vineyard property lies their innovative restaurant where the motto is simple: good company, great food, fantastic wine. Settle in for refined fare perfectly crafted over three generations of Italian heritage: in the delicious crunch of the fluffy focaccia with garlic-infused olive oil and handmade fettucine puttanesca with sweet napoli sauce or antipasto. Relax outside at the cellar door’s alfresco dining area, sip on Cucina’s signature tipple and dabble in a game of Finska as you take in all the glory this wine estate has to offer.
Lux moments
Go with the flow
There’s nothing more breathtaking than witnessing the sunset over the horizon of the mighty Murray from the water. For the ultimate experience, look no further than Paringa with its spectacular scenery of limestone cliffs, the tree-lined riverbank and tranquil waters, making it one of the most idyllic places in the country for such an experience. Climb onboard a charming 100-year-old wooden gondola and embark on a unique five-star experience with The Frames. With sparkling wine and a cheese platter on-hand, this memorable romantic cruise surrounded by abundant wildlife and the spellbinding colours of the night sky is the ultimate way to round out your day.
Wind along the Murray on two feet
They don’t call it the scenic route for nothing… The Murray River’s natural scenery and 2,508km will leave you breathless: imagine diverse landscapes, tranquil waters, awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets. Beauty can be found around every corner and the region and offers infinite opportunities to explore the great outdoors on two feet. If you’re partial to hopping from vine to vine, the guided four-day River Murray Walk may be for you. Picture-perfect river views make up your backdrop as you walk from Renmark to Headings Cliffs, Chowilla Creek and beyond.
Tailor your escape to the Murray River
Immerse yourself in the Muray River with Luxury Escapes’ hand-picked Experiences. We’ve curated a selection of cultural activities, adrenaline thrills, food adventures and luxury add-ons to help you discover your destination. These Experiences are bookable when you purchase your next escape. Simply select your travel dates and number of travellers for any package and opt to tailor your escape by selecting the available Experiences.
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