The Gannawarra region has long been known as one of the state’s most unique nature-based tourism destinations, and also one of the Murray region’s best kept secrets. Here you’ll discover nature at its finest, without the crowds, where you can bushwalk all day, kayak for hours on end and lose yourself under a blanket of stars as night falls. We have the perfect nature-based itinerary for you in the Gannawarra, with ample time by the river, on the road and river trails, tasting the flavours of the region, and even a spot of bird watching! So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started…
A Fusion of Flavours and Good Times in Cohuna
First stop, Cohuna, the heart of the Gannawarra region, and a firm favourite for water lovers. With the sun shining and weather warming just in time for the spring school holidays, it’s the perfect time of year for water-based activities before the summer holiday makers arrive. Make sure you pop into the Gateway to the Gannawarra Visitor Centre for all the intel on what’s new in town, including new businesses and events happening during spring. We can share that a favourite local cafe Jens on George is under new tenantship and has been revamped as The Big Cohuna Stockyard cafe, bar and functions venue. This exciting new venture offers coffee from 6am - perfect for those morning walkers - with a classic favourites menu available from 9am-2pm. Watch this space for a new menu and liquor licence coming soon with a fabulous fusion of flavours and good times.
If you happen to be visiting Cohuna on September 27 you must not miss the hottest event on the regional calendar: The Cohuna Chilli Festival (see what we did there). This unique local event is a fun-filled night for the whole family with chilli eating competitions - of course - as well as music, food, drinks and plenty of entertainment. Be sure to get your tickets before you land in town.
Meet our Tiny Town Bronze Award Winner
Next is beautiful Koondrook and a freshly minted Tiny Town Tourism Award winner in the 2024 TAC Victorian Top Tourism Awards. In its first year nominated, our tiny town of Koondrook - boasting a population of only 1100 people - received a bronze award, and was recognised for promoting nature-based tourism.
Nestled at the junction of the Murray River and Gunbower Creek, Koondrook is the ideal place for a deep dive in the natural world, and you only have to walk around this picturesque area to know it’s an absolute nature lover’s paradise.
Koondrook is also the gateway to stunning Gunbower Island, where you can explore ancient redgum forests and wetlands of international significance, and lose yourself in the enchanting calls of waterbirds as you paddle through magical waterways - be sure to keep your eyes peeled for platypus and turtle. Hire a canoe or kayak to fully explore the endless waterways, or follow winding trails beneath the forest canopy to uncover historical, cultural and ecological sites of interest. To fully immerse yourself in this incomparable place of wonder, book an organised tour with Murray River Adventures.
Lovers of all things paddling might also be interested in the annual Massive Murray Paddle, which travels through the region in November each year.
Koondrook has some unique and delightful options for accommodation, more than satisfactory culinary delights too, and is a wonderful taking off point for some of the best bird watching you’ll find along the Murray River.
So, if you’re keen for a truly nature-based escape, and to slow down to recharge your batteries and reconnect with loved ones this spring, award-winning Koondrook and surrounds is the place.
An abundance of wetlands across the Gannawarra region provide a unique haven for native birdlife, with more than 200 species calling these parts home. Birdlife abounds here, particularly during flood season when the wetlands truly come to life, and the serious twitchers in your group can source bird finding maps from the visitor information centre. Some of the more spectacular bird watching locations include the Kerang Lakes region, which takes in the Ibis Rookery at Middle Reedy Lake - the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
Gunbower National Park and State Park on Gunbower Island are magical for bird watching, and also recognised as a Ramsar Wetland site. In addition, Gunbower Creek and associated lagoons provide vital feeding and breeding habitat for numerous species. So, don’t forget to pack the binoculars when you visit the Gannawarra region this spring.
Sleep under the stars in a Cozy Dome
Of course, you’ll need somewhere to stay while you’re exploring our nature-lover’s paradise, and we have just the ticket. For one of the most unique stays in the region, try Cozy Dome at Charm Lodge. Nestled in the very heart of nature, under star-filled skies, this igloo-inspired dome is the enchanting and intimate experience you’ve been craving as you emerge from winter hiding. Ideal for couples, or solo travellers, Cozy Dome is a proper natural experience, and you won’t have to share it with anyone. Just collect some supplies in town before you arrive, then switch off from the world and your phone.
Heading away from the wetlands, our final destination (until we return again soon to the Gannawarra) is Quambatook and its legendary Silo Cinema. This unique, community-run cinema attracts visitors from all over and was created to help boost the local economy, which relies heavily on farming. The old grain silos in the centre of town transform into the big screen and regularly showcase illustrious Australian movies. The next silo cinema is scheduled on 26 October and we recommend enjoying a pub meal at the Quambatook Hotel before the show. There’s also great accommodation available nearby at the local caravan park. Trust us, you’ll be telling all your friends and family about this unforgettable Mallee experience.
So, what are you waiting for? Lock in your itinerary for the Gannawarra region ASAP, and escape for an authentic and unforgettable holiday on the Murray River. Just remember to always plan and book ahead of time, especially for accommodation, eating out and tours, to ensure you don’t miss out.
We know you’ll just love holidaying in the Gannawarra this spring - from discovering ancient forests, to birdwatching and kayaking magical waterways, sleeping under the stars or experiencing a true blue Aussie outback cinema, there’s so much waiting for you and your family and friends. It’s a place where you can truly switch off from the hustle and bustle and get away from it all. See you soon for your nature-filled break in the Gannawarra!
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