Murray River

Overview

The Murray River is Australia’s longest river and a lifeline of South Australia’s inland heart. Flowing through dramatic cliffs, ancient river red gums, and charming riverside towns, it offers a slower, more peaceful kind of adventure. From houseboat holidays and kayaking to regional wines, Aboriginal culture, and stargazing under clear country skies, the Murray is the perfect escape for nature lovers, families, and travellers looking to unwind and reconnect.

Explore the Murray River Your Way

At The Road Trip Oz, we take the stress out of planning so you can enjoy the serenity and scenery of the Murray. Whether you’re after a laid-back river cruise, a scenic self-drive journey, or a personalised private tour, we’ll help you discover the best of the region.

• Self-drive tours – We’ll map the best routes, river towns, and outdoor adventures.

• Small group tours – Travel with fellow explorers for a fun and friendly experience.

• Private guided tours – Let a local expert show you the stories and hidden corners of the Murray.

• Multi-day river cruises – Interested in a longer houseboat or paddle steamer cruise? We can build this into your road trip itinerary and take care of all the bookings for a seamless experience on land and water.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (Dec–Feb): Watersports and river escapes

• Cruise or paddle along cool river waters.

• Enjoy houseboat stays with swimming, fishing, and BBQs.

• Take in sunset views over ochre cliffs.

Autumn (Mar–May): Mild days and golden landscapes

• Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

• Scenic drives through vineyards and riverside towns.

• River gums glowing in the soft afternoon light.

Winter (Jun–Aug): Quiet charm and misty mornings

• Cosy up in riverside cottages with a glass of red wine.

• Take a heritage cruise or explore historic paddle steamer towns.

• Visit wetlands teeming with winter birdlife.

Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers and fresh adventures

• Walk trails lined with native blooms.

• Spot newborn wildlife in national parks and conservation areas.

• Taste spring produce and local wines at country pubs and cellar doors.

Best Things to See & Do on the Murray River

Iconic Highlights

• Mannum – The birthplace of paddle steamers and home to the PS Marion and Mannum Dock Museum.

• Renmark – A charming riverside town known for houseboats, orchards, and local wine.

• Loxton Historical Village – Step back in time at this open-air museum.

• Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park – Learn about Aboriginal history and ancient rock carvings on guided cultural tours.

• Big Bend Cliffs – Towering golden sandstone cliffs best viewed from the water.

• Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre – Enjoy wine tastings paired with wetland boardwalks and conservation.

• Riverland Wine Trail – Explore boutique cellar doors and regional wine producers.

• Lake Bonney (Barmera) – A water-lover’s paradise perfect for kayaking, sailing, and sunsets.

• Morgan Historic Wharf – A scenic riverside spot steeped in riverboat history.

• Murray Bridge – A lively hub for river activities, dining, and local markets.

Photo Hotspots

• Big Bend Cliffs at sunset – Fiery reflections on the river.

• Houseboats moored beneath red gums – Classic river-life scenes.

• Banrock Station boardwalks – Wetland walks with vineyard backdrops.

• Ngaut Ngaut rock carvings – Ancient stories etched into stone.

• Lake Bonney at dusk – Mirror-like reflections and pastel skies.

Hidden Gems

• Chowilla Game Reserve – A peaceful wilderness area perfect for 4WD exploring and wildlife spotting.

• Ruston’s Rose Garden (Renmark) – One of Australia’s largest rose collections.

• Monash Adventure Park – A fun riverside playground for families.

• Moorook Game Reserve – A quiet wetland haven with walking trails and bird hides.

• Paringa Suspension Bridge – A quirky heritage structure still operating for boats today.

Multi-Day Cruises: A Unique Way to Travel the Murray

Want to take your river experience to the next level? The Murray is famous for its multi-day houseboat holidays and heritage paddle steamer cruises. These floating getaways are a fantastic way to explore at your own pace—wake up to river views, pull up to riverside pubs, fish off the back deck, or simply relax with a glass of local wine under the stars.

Whether you’re after a luxurious floating villa, a family-friendly boat, or a historic cruise with commentary and catered meals, we can include a cruise as part of your broader road trip adventure—no need to book separately, we’ll take care of it all.

Choosing the Right Rental Car for Self Drive Adventures

The Murray River region is made for road trips, with open roads, small towns, and countless scenic lookouts. Here’s how to pick the perfect vehicle:

• Compact car – Great for couples or solo travellers sticking to the main routes and towns.

• SUV – Offers comfort and versatility for exploring riverbank tracks or game reserves.

• 4WD – Ideal for those wanting more freedom and access to off-the-beaten-path locations.

Need help choosing? We’ll sort your car hire so you can hit the road stress-free.

Where to Stay Along the Murray River

Mid-Range Comfort

• Pretoria Hotel (Mannum) – Riverside pub-style stay with relaxed dining and balcony views.

• Renmark Hotel – A historic stay with modern comforts and river outlooks.

• Berri Hotel – Centrally located with river views and easy access to local attractions.

Luxury Stays

• The Frames (Paringa) – Award-winning luxury retreats with private plunge pools and outdoor baths.

• PS Julie Fay Houseboat – A floating five-star escape with gourmet kitchen and sundeck spa.

• Pike River Luxury Villas – Stunning eco-accommodation nestled above the river cliffs.

Looking for something unique? We’ll recommend the best stylish stays to match your preferences.

Combining the Murray River with Other Destinations

The Murray River pairs perfectly with other South Australian gems. Coming from Adelaide? Head up through the Adelaide Hills for cool-climate wines before descending into the warmth of the river country. Extend your journey north to the Flinders Ranges for ancient landscapes and outback adventures, or connect east into Victoria’s Sunraysia region for more food and wine.

Want to unwind before hitting the coast? After a few days on the Murray, travel south to Coorong National Park where the river meets the sea – an incredible wetland landscape brimming with birdlife and solitude.

Why Travel with The Road Trip Oz?

We love the Murray River region and know its stories, landscapes, and secret spots. Whether you’re into nature, wine, culture, or just slowing down by the water, we’ll build a journey that matches your pace and passions.

• Private guided tours – Dive deeper with a guide who brings the Murray’s stories to life.

• Self-drive tours – A tailored itinerary with hand-picked stays and experiences.

• Small group trips – Travel with like-minded adventurers and let us take care of the details.

• Cruise packages – Want a few nights floating the river? We can lock in the perfect boat and handle the logistics.

Let us create a relaxed river escape just for you.

Book Your Murray River Getaway

From riverbank sunsets and historic paddle steamers to boutique wines and quiet moments in nature, the Murray River is pure South Australian magic. Let us help you experience it your way.

Contact The Road Trip Oz today and let the river guide your next journey.