Warm up your winter with a weekend getaway along the river.
The land surrounding the mighty Murray is a million shades of beautiful and winter is the perfect time to sit back and take in the scenery. Glowing cliffs, expansive wetlands, natural landscapes and bubbling brooks, the scenery never gets old. But the best is what’s hiding among the beauty — local businesses offering up little slices of heaven for you to enjoy year-round. Stop Googling “perfect Riverland itinerary” and steal ours instead! It’s tried and tested, and will give you a taste of what this spectacular region has to offer.
Whistling Kite.
Stay
Once upon a time, a dose of luxury met a rural setting and had a baby — and that baby is Parcoola Retreats. Sitting on a property right on the Murray River, this boutique retreat features a tiny villa called Flow, set alongside a restored stone cottage with a shared outdoor living space that focuses on the waterside views. Sleeping up to four people across two loft bedrooms, Flow at Parcoola has all the creature comforts to keep you cosy. Indulge in an in-house massage, sip on the complimentary bottle of wine from Starrs Reach Vineyard and feast on a curated hamper, all organised by your hosts. You’ll never have to leave!
Parcoola Retreats.
Eat
Start your day with a perfect cup of coffee at Arrosto Coffee, located in the old Renmark fire station. Their famous gourmet brekky burgers served on weekends are worth a visit alone! Or, load up on macarons and cupcakes at Zynski Bakes — they also run courses so you can recreate their sugary magic! For lunch, stop in at 23rd Street Distillery. Alongside gin, they also serve up incredible tapas, platters and pizzas, all designed to share. Then round out your day of feasting with dinner at Earth Restaurant. Start with pre-dinner drinks and a regional snack, then stay for a regional-inspired meal using the best local produce. For a flavour bomb, try Nui’s Thai — the portions are generous and the authentic dishes pack a mighty punch!
Earth Restaurant.
Zynski Bakes.Drink
You’ll need to whet your whistle at some point and the Riverland Wine Centre is a good place to start. With over 25 different wineries featured in one place, you can get to know the region one sip at a time. For something a little different, make your way to Whistling Kite Biodynamic Wines. For almost 50 years, owners Pam and Tony have nurtured their vineyards and cared for their land, and the results are pure magic. If wine isn’t your game, Woolshed Brewery sits in a prime position overlooking the river and serves up frothies and hard lemonade for all to enjoy. Not sure where to start? A beer paddle is the best way to taste your way through their range.
Image credit: Arrosto Coffee.
Explore
You can’t visit the Riverland without getting out on the water. Canoe Adventures will take you on a guided tour along the waterways. Keep an eye out for wildlife throughout the national parks! If you’re aiming for zero effort, hop on board with Renmark River Cruises. Choose your area of interest — cliffs, sunsets, wine or food — and they’ll take you on the tour of your dreams.
Canoe Adventures.
