The Murray River

Whether you want to relax on a leisurely houseboat holiday, explore the backwaters and by-ways of Australia’s greatest waterway or simply drop a line and enjoy a spot of fishing, the Murray River is the place to relax and rejuvenate.

Lined by historic townships, this majestic waterway meanders through a picturesque section of Australian countryside, past amazing cliffs, stunning scenery and teeming bird life, bringing life and leisure to all. If there was ever a place on earth to unwind, it is on this great winding river. There is little in life more rewarding than feeling the relaxing rhythm of this grand river as it slowly drifts along in awe of its relentless push to the ocean.

The outback town of Wentworth lies at the junction of the Murray and Darling rivers. From this point the river travels 827 kilometres through Renmark in the Riverland, then through the Murraylands to Goolwa in the Fleurieu Peninsula. Ancient limestone cliffs, graceful river red gums, lush vineyards and citrus groves are hallmarks of the Riverland section of the river, while large tracts of native bush, towering ochre cliffs, historic towns and the austere beauty of the Mallee characterise the Murraylands’ slice. On its final stretch, the Murray River passes through the unique natural environment of the Lower Lakes and the Coorong before making its way out into the Southern Ocean.

Easily accessible and starting just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, the region is perfect for fun on the water – houseboating, fishing, canoeing, skiing and swimming are all on offer, as are great riverside picnic spots, amazing sunsets and a range of cruising options.

Visit award-winning attractions, go shopping, sample famous wines, stock up on local produce or learn about the Murray River’s fascinating heritage at a local museum. Embrace the Murraylands’ farming, horticulture and dairy industries; take a ride aboard a historic paddle steamer; check out the work of local and indigenous artists at a gallery; or take a bushwalk and discover abundant native wildlife in one of the region’s many conservation parks or the UNESCO-listed Riverland Biosphere. 

There is little in life more rewarding than feeling the relaxing rhythm of this grand river as it flows slowly on its journey to the ocean.