Highlights
Monarto Safari Park, Banrock Station, Murray River Walk, houseboating and river cruises
Duration
4 days
Regions
Fleurieu Peninsula, Murray River Lakes and Coorong, Riverland
The Murray flows more than 2500km from the Snowy Mountains to the Southern Ocean. Follow its ever-changing landscapes and experience history and nature unique to each township while indulging in local food, wine and beer.
Day 1
Adelaide - Goolwa
From Adelaide drive to Goolwa, an old river port where the Murray River meets the sea. Join a Spirit of Australia Cruises for a cruise that takes you to the Murray Mouth and learn about the eco-system, wildlife and Aboriginal significance of this area known as the Coorong. The Coorong National Park is a 130km stretch of saltwater lagoons protected from the Southern Ocean by the sweeping sand dunes. The perfect sanctuary for birds, animals and fish. Just minutes away are the Currency Creek and Langhone Creek wine regions.
Overnight: Goolwa
Adelaide to Goolwa: 82 km/51 miles, 1-hour 20-minute drive
Day 2
Goolwa - Waikerie via Murray Bridge
This morning drive to Murray Bridge and visit Monarto Safari Park, it's the world's largest open range safari park with more than 500 animals. Visit the historic town of Mannum and stop for lunch at the Mannum Motel before continuing on to Swan Reach and Walkers Flat, where the cliffs are a must-see before continuing on to Waikerie. As an alternative take a tour through the Dark Sky Reserve with Juggle House Experiences that includes a stop at Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park for a tour with a local Aboriginal guide around the cultural site.
Overnight: Waikerie
Goolwa to Waikerie: 260km/162miles, 3-hour 30-minute drive
Day 3
Waikerie - Renmark
Call into the Overland Corner Hotel, this is not just another pub but a living museum. Continue on to Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre an ideal setting to enjoy an outstanding wine, food and nature experience. Drive to Barmera and enjoy some watersports on Lake Bonney before continuing on to Berri and Renmark. Visit Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery located in an historic 100-year-old shearing sheds with stunning views of the river and take a guided tour of the century old Twenty Third Street Distillery in Renmark and try their craft gin or whiskey. Rent a kayak and explore the riverbank from the water and stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables from the roadside stalls.
Overnight: Renmark (The Frames are luxury clifftop retreats overlooking the River)
Waikerie to Renmark: 130km/81miles, 1-hour 30-minute drive
Day 4
Renmark - Adelaide
Return to Adelaide or continue on to Mildura. Consider extending this itinerary with a 4 day/3-night Murray River Walk, a guided walking and cruising tour departing from Renmark. The tour operates within the Ramsar Wetland and guests experience a range of environments. Houseboat accommodation, nightly three course meals and qualified guides are included.
Overnight: Adelaide
Renmark to Adelaide: 255 km/158 miles 3-hour, 30-minute drive
Day 5
Houseboat Holiday (optional)
South Australia has some of the most luxurious and well-equipped houseboats on the Murray River. Anyone over the age of 18 with a current driver’s licence can hire one and will be given full instruction before setting out. Unforgettable Houseboats vary in size and fit out, sleeping from two to 12 people.
Day 6
River Cruise (optional)
Alternatively choose a three-, four- or seven-night Murray River cruise onboard the authentic paddlewheeler, PS Murray Princess or a day cruise with the Proud Mary. Cruises depart from Mannum and Murray Bridge and include a range of excursions and tours. Coach transfers to and from Adelaide are included.