Summer on the Murray in River Country offers so much more than a great holiday - it's a vibe that seeps deep into your bones.
Think sunrise paddles, skiing with friends, sunset bushwalks and warm summer nights set against the most magnificent backdrop of the mighty Murray (Dhungala) and towering river red gums.
But beyond the quintessential water activities and riverside camping spots, it’s the trail of bespoke food and wine experiences, drawcard events and outstanding accommodation offerings scattered throughout this beautiful region that are the real summer delights.
From riverside restaurants, ultracool wine bars, vineyards and alfresco cafes, to country-style bakeries, farmers’ markets and friendly pubs, foodies of all tastes and inclinations are spoilt for gastronomical choice.
Just a few hours from Melbourne and less than a day's drive from Sydney, Murray River Country is an accessible holiday destination where you can escape the busyness of life, reconnect with nature and let your worries wash away - all while enjoying the tastes and sounds of the river life with family and friends.
In River Country our passion for good food and wine runs just as deep as our connection to the river. And if you’ve ever experienced some of our relaxed riverside dining offerings, you’ll understand just how perfectly they go hand in hand.
The vibrant hub of Echuca Moama is the perfect place to start your food and wine soiree, indulging in exquisite flavours amidst breathtaking landscapes where every bite becomes a memorable experience by the water’s edge.
Spend a lazy afternoon sipping locally grown wines at Cape Horn Vineyard & Riverside Bar or Morrisons Riverview Winery where the whistle of the nearby paddlesteamers and resident kookaburras echo through the vineyards and beautiful old gums. During your stay, climb aboard one of these iconic boats, and meander down the Dhungala for a completely unique dining experience and perspective of the world.
Tucked quietly away at the back of Moama Waters (one of the most luxurious caravan parks in the region), is Riverbank Moama, a uniquely delicious restaurant on the banks of the river where you can sip and savor a cocktail (or two) as you take in the surrounding water views. Book a cabin, or bring your van, but most importantly your crew, as this place is too good not to share.
Of course, a visit to the River Country would not be complete without a visit to the world class Moama Bowling Club and Junction Moama where all dining preferences and budgets are catered for under the one stunning roof.
And it doesn’t stop there.
Grab a coffee and some breakfast to go from local faves Hammond Providore and Three Black Sheep, and take a short trip along the Cobb Hwy to Mathoura for a long lunch at the Timbercutter Red Gum Cafe, Bar & Function Venue, aptly named after the historic trades who helped grow the region, and overlooking the most spectacular junction of the Murray & Edward rivers.
For a summer seasonal menu, using locally-sourced produce in the ultimate paddock to plate experience, Ivy Joyce in Barham is the region’s latest hot spot. Boasting equally delicious wines to match, this warm and welcoming boutique food and wine bar is a must-visit destination for lunch or dinner.
For a more untouched bush setting, Barham Vines is the perfect place for relaxing with a glass of wine, a cheese platter or woodfired pizza with friends.
Continuing a little further on this foodie road trip, you’ll discover the local artisan produce, boutique eateries and farm gates of the Backroads Trail including Bundarra Berkshires, Barham Avocados, Redgum Grove and Restdown Wines.
Taste the romance of the past at the Old School Winery & Meadery in Woomboota, drop into the cellar door of Andrew Peace Wines, one of Australia’s largest family-owned wineries near Tooleybuc, or if some classic pub grub is more your style - swing past the Moulamein Pub for a pot on the pine!
Complementing the culinary delights of this part of the world, is a major events and festival calendar that is bursting at the seams in the summertime. The outstanding multi award-winning Riverboats Music Festival, held in February, is one of Australia’s most loved and revered music events.
For some true country hospitality, be sure to visit the Moulamein races, check out the River Daze music food and wine festival in Barham, and also experience the unique Wakool sheep races.
You can also get your heart racing at Aqua Island where kids (and big kids at heart) can test their agility on the inflatable course, and families of all ages will love the Pop up cinema Moama during the summer school holidays.
During your visit be sure to drop a line in from the riverbank for a lazy afternoon of fishing on one of our five rivers, and also try stand-up paddleboarding on the Murray, a unique and leisurely ‘water therapy’ that is sure to have you hooked.
Of course River Country is also home to a number of award-winning championship golf courses which is the perfect place to spend a few leisurely hours of holiday time. At Rich River Golf Club, Murray Downs Golf & Country Club, CluBarham and Tooleybuc Sporting Club you’ll find a course to challenge all abilities amongst some of the most impressive facilities in the land. Tee off in the morning, enjoy a meal at the club in the afternoon and book your accommodation right beside the fairways - the region really is a golfers’ paradise.
With so much food to fill your bellies and activities to fill your days, you’ll need somewhere to rest your weary bones when nighttime falls.
This region is bursting with free camping bush spots and waterside holiday parks full of amenities to entertain the whole family. And if camping’s not your thing, you’ll find a large and lovely collection of luxe hotels, classic motels and holiday homes scattered right across the region. For the ultimate Murray River experience, book a paddlesteamer cruise or a few nights aboard a luxury houseboat, complete with rooftop spas and all the modern amenities.
Come for a weekend, or stay for a week, the choice is entirely yours. Just make sure you choose a destination in River Country for your next summer getaway.
Check out our Events Calendar, follow us on Facebook and book your accommodation today.
