The Murray River

Overview

Victoria’s stretch of the 2,500km mighty Murray River has everything you’d want in an Aussie road trip: charming towns, stunning wineries, historic paddle steamers, and endless riverside beauty. Whether you’re cruising gently downriver, fishing from quiet jetties, or just kicking back at a riverside pub, the Murray offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation—all within easy reach from Melbourne.

Explore the Murray River Your Way

At The Road Trip Oz, we help you discover the Murray however suits you best—whether you love the freedom of exploring independently, the ease of joining a small group, or the personalised care of your own local guide.

• Self-Drive Tours – Enjoy complete freedom with our detailed route notes, insider secrets, and top local recommendations.
• Small Group Tours – Relax with friendly travellers and a local guide who’ll show you all the hidden gems.
• Private Guided Tours – Have your own personal guide tailor every moment to suit your interests perfectly.

Seasonal Highlights on the Murray River

Every season brings something special:

Summer (Dec–Feb): River Adventures & Sunny Days

• Perfect for swimming, boating, and watersports.
• Enjoy bustling riverside pubs and vibrant holiday energy.

Autumn (Mar–May): Golden Vines & Easy Cruising

• Mild weather, beautiful autumn colours, and quieter crowds.
• Great for winery visits and leisurely paddle-steamer cruises.

Winter (Jun–Aug): Cosy Escapes & Quiet Waters

• Cosy campfires and relaxed riverside walks.
• Quiet time perfect for slow-paced sightseeing, wine tasting, and photography.

Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers & Wildlife

• Stunning wildflowers bloom along the banks.
• Ideal conditions for kayaking, fishing, and spotting native birds and animals.

Best Spots to Visit

Top Attractions

• Echuca Paddle Steamers – Cruise the Murray River aboard iconic historic paddle steamers.
• Port of Echuca Discovery Centre – Dive into the region’s fascinating riverboat history at this heritage precinct.
• Barmah National Park – Explore trails, canoe through peaceful waterways, and spot native wildlife.
• Gunbower Island – Quiet camping, fishing, and wildlife spotting among river red gums.
• Perricoota Wine Region – Relaxed riverside wineries ideal for wine tastings and scenic lunches.
• Kyabram Fauna Park – Up-close encounters with native Aussie wildlife.
• Cape Horn Vineyard – Taste local wines overlooking the beautiful Murray River.
• Great Aussie Beer Shed – Quirky museum packed with Australian beer memorabilia—perfect for a fun stop.

Photo Hotspots

• Echuca Wharf: Capture those iconic paddle steamers docked alongside the old timber wharf—perfect for sunrise and sunset snaps.
• Cape Horn Winery: Vineyards overlooking the Murray, a glass of wine, and that golden-hour glow—your friends will wish they were here too.
• Lake Boga: Peaceful lake views with reflections so perfect, your photos will look professionally edited.
• Pioneer Settlement (Swan Hill): Snap a bit of history with charming old buildings and vintage vehicles—a real step-back-in-time moment.
• Gunbower Island: Quiet waterways and river red gums reflecting on still waters—great spot if you’re chasing a tranquil nature shot.

Hidden Gems

• Ulupna Island: Spot wild koalas and enjoy secluded riverside camping.
• Riverside Markets (Echuca & Swan Hill): Charming markets filled with local crafts and produce.
• Barmah Lakes: Quiet wetlands ideal for birdwatching and gentle kayaking adventures.
• Cohuna & Barham: Quieter riverside towns great for fishing, camping, and exploring without the crowds.

Where to Stay Along the Murray River

Stay comfortable and relaxed at these great riverside accommodations:

Mid-Range Comfort

• Adelphi Apartments (Echuca): Modern apartments right by the historic port, ideal for exploring town.
• Captains Cove Resort (Paynesville): Waterfront apartments with private jetties, great for boating enthusiasts.
• Bridges on Meninya (Moama): Comfortable motel-style rooms perfectly positioned to explore Echuca and surrounds.

Luxury Stays

• Tindarra Resort (Moama): Riverside luxury villas with incredible views and private river access.
• Talo Retreat (Moama): Luxury glamping yurts for a stylish and relaxing riverside escape.
• Perricoota Vines Retreat: Boutique vineyard villas offering privacy, stunning scenery, and total relaxation.

Combining the Murray River with Other Destinations

Why stop at the Murray? At The Road Trip Oz, we’ll help you combine this riverside adventure with other incredible Victorian experiences – like Melbourne’s vibrant CBD, the breathtaking Grampians, or the relaxing beaches of the Mornington Peninsula – for an unforgettable getaway.

Choosing the Right Rental Car for Self-Drive Tours

The right car makes your Murray River road trip easy and enjoyable:

• Compact & Standard Cars – Ideal for easy town hopping along the river.
• SUVs – Comfortable for scenic drives and country roads.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs) – Eco-friendly driving with convenient charging options along your route.
• Vans – Great for families or groups wanting extra space.

Not sure what’s best? We’ll help you pick the perfect vehicle.

Why Choose The Road Trip Oz?

At The Road Trip Oz, we’re passionate about crafting trips that feel effortless and genuinely enjoyable. With local insights, careful planning, and personalised service, we make sure you get the best Murray River experience, stress-free.

Choose how you want to explore:

• Private Guided Tours – Relax and enjoy a tailor-made journey with your own local expert.
• Self-Drive Freedom – Explore independently with confidence, guided by our detailed notes and insider recommendations.
• Small Group Experiences – Sociable journeys showcasing local highlights, led by experienced guides.

We take care of the details – you soak up the riverside vibes.

Book Your Murray River Road Trip

Ready to experience the charm of the Murray River your way? Contact The Road Trip Oz today to start planning your personalised guided, self-drive, or small-group adventure.

Secure your unforgettable Murray River experience today!