Holidays to The Murray River

Sail down the river on a traditional paddle steamer, or learn the history of those majestic vessels at the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. Step onto the shore for a round of golf in the morning sun. Uncover stories of the region’s past among the heritage buildings of Albury and the fascinating Bonegilla Migrant Experience. And browse indigenous and contemporary art at MAMA.

Fish for Murray cod and golden perch in Lake Mulwala. Ride a horse and cart through a pioneer town at Swan Hill. See where Australia’s oldest human remains were found at the UNESCO World Heritage Lake Mungo, of Mungo National Park. Set out on an off-road adventure through the exhilarating wildlife-filled terrain around Mildura. Indulge in a riverside spa, and pick up authentic souvenirs from regional markets all along the Murray’s course. Then, at the end of the day, you can dine in one of the riverside wineries.

Make the most of your river trip by getting out on the water. Step aboard a historic paddle steamer from Echuca Moama to enjoy an elegant dinner cruise or graceful overnight sailing. Pick up the pace on the river’s wider sections, where you can try waterskiing, wake-boarding, or jet-skiing. Alternatively, paddle along the wetlands in a kayak or canoe.

Leave the river behind for a sunset cruise on the gentle waters of Lake Mulwala. You can sail from wharf to winery, where you can enjoy a relaxing vineyard visit complete with delicious artisan lunch. Or explore the mighty Murray in full when you hire a houseboat and drift between diverse waterside towns and villages in complete calm and comfort.

From its source in the Australian Alps of New South Wales, to its mouth at the edge of the Southern Ocean in South Australia, the Murray River meanders for 1,558 miles through some of southeast Australia’s most beautiful towns – so there are plenty of places to stay.

You can walk among heritage buildings in the vibrant twin cities of Albury Wodonga. Relax with golf, fishing and watersports in Yarrawonga Mulwala. Or enjoy fine-dining and delicious local wines around Echuca Moama, the Murray’s historic steamboat capital.

Wander through the living museum of Pioneer Settlement and browse upmarket eateries in Swan Hill. Discover the ancient lives of Indigenous Australians in Mungo National Park. Indulge in international flavours and local brews on Mildura’s ‘Feast Street’. Take a break on the shores of Lake Bonney in Barmera, or look out to the ocean from the historic port of Goolwa.

A mild year-round climate and an expansive choice of locations means there’s never a bad time to visit the Murray River. The summer months from December to February offer the longest days and the highest temperatures, which can get as high as 34°C.

Meanwhile, spring – from March to May – and autumn – September to November – are the perfect seasons for travellers who’d prefer to avoid the crowds, while still enjoying comfortable daytime temperatures as high as 25°C.

Naturally, winter is the chilliest time of year. Sunset can be as early as 5pm, but most days are still pleasant and temperatures can reach up to 15°C. River cruises run all year round, but it’s best to pack plenty layers if you’re visiting in winter.