4 Winter Escapes by the Murray River

Your much-deserved winter weekend by the Murray

Spending a weekend on the banks of the river Murray in winter is just the perfect way to wind down. It’s a chance to simply enjoy the untouched nature and wildlife, while appreciating a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Pack your bags and head out to either the Riverland or the Murraylands to enjoy everything that the great Murray River has to offer.

These two regions are well known for their peace and tranquility as well being renowned for their ability to produce abundant high-quality, pest-free fruit and nuts, vegetables and grains and of course grapes for the wonderful wines that are produced here. You can see why it is also known as the food bowl of South Australia. The fresh and clean food from these regions is enjoyed throughout Australia and equally overseas, so foodies amongst you will thoroughly enjoy dining out in some of the many fabulous restaurants of the Murraylands and the Riverland.

Stay at our recommended hotels this winter, and receive a FREE bottle of Penfolds wine to warm up your stay!

The Relaxing Riverland

Winters in the Riverland are relatively warm compared to Adelaide, with the temperatures being around an average 18-20 degrees. However, it is cooler either end of the day which means you can enjoy cosy evenings around the log fire while admiring the beautiful misty sunsets from across the river. 

There is so much to see in the Riverland for all ages. If you are an animal lover then visit the delightful Chowilla Game Reserve or if being on the water is your thing then take part in an organised Canoe Adventure or simply head off on a hike through the stunning countryside. You will be spoilt for choice while staying in the Riverland in winter!

When it comes to hotels, there are plenty to choose from to suit any budget, however we recommend the lovely and perfectly located Berri Hotel as well as the Big River Golf and Country Club.

1. Berri Hotel

Located right in the heart of Berri – a charming little town on the banks of the river – is this lovely hotel which has a stunning river front location, great accommodation as well as a restaurant serving delicious food and wines. Facilities include a Bistro which serves great food for breakfast lunch and dinner, a wonderful seasonal outdoor pool plus beautiful picnic and BBQ areas. It really is the perfect place to stay for a winter weekend getaway by the river. 

While staying in Berri, one excursion that’s a must is a visit to one of the region’s wineries, so make sure you take a trip to some of the cellar doors and experience the local produce!

2. Big River Golf and Country Club

Also situated in the town of Berri, this hotel overlooks the fabulous Berri Golf Course, so it is perfect for golf lovers. The hotel offers comfortable spacious rooms, extensive indoor and outdoor dining and a great out door swimming pool set amongst lovely gardens.

You are just a few minutes drive from the Martin Bend Reserve here, which has plenty of spacious picnic areas in which to while away the day by the river. If you have chosen to take the kids along for the weekend then the Monash Adventure Park is sure to be a hit with them. Take them wandering through the huge maze that has secret doorways in high walls leading onto a secret little playground. they will also enjoy the rope bridge, the slippery dip and many more fun filled attractions.

Enticing Murraylands

With Murray Bridge located only an hour away from Adelaide and at the mouth of the mighty Murray River, it is the ideal location for a winter Weekend Escape. This region enjoys a mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters and with plenty of sunshine, so it’s a wonderful time to enjoy all that this region has to offer. 

Murray Bridge and Mannum are the largest and most well known towns of the Murraylands offering an abundance of places to explore and activities to enjoy. Make one of these destinations your next winter Weekend Escape!

3. The Bridgeport Hotel in Murray Bridge 

Having recently undergone a massive refurbishment, The Bridgeport is undeniably the place to stay in Murray Bridge. With its enviable position overlooking the river, plus its high quality accommodation, outstanding food and vibrant entertainment you will certainly not be disappointed.

There is also a lovely swimming pool complete with a bar for relaxing in after a day of exploring, plus a gym, sports bar and gaming room, so everything you could possibly want is right at your door.

The Bridgeport Hotel is ideally situated for any activities on the river. You may not want to swim in winter but kayaking, boating, fishing and walking plus an abundance of other activities will contribute to your enjoyment of this lovely town.

4. Mannum Hotel in Mannum

If you are looking for somewhere casual, relaxing and convenient then Mannum Motel is the perfect place. Located at the end of the main street and overlooking the beautiful Murray River, it is walking distance from most of the activities that are on offer. The comfortable and spacious rooms vary in size and configuration to suit any taste and budget with some of the 27 rooms overlooking the magnificent river. The hotel houses Cafe Mannum which serves delicious meals for breakfast and dinner using only the freshest ingredients from the area, making it the ideal place to sit back, enjoy the views and revel in your winter Weekend Escape.

Why not enjoy the views of the river from a riverboat cruise? Take a lunch cruise on the famous Proud Mary or the Paddle boat and simply sit back, enjoy the food aswell as the spectacular views of the Murray River. Plus, while staying in Mannum you will be treated to the famous dark sky star gazing experience. With no large towns anywhere nearby, the skies are renowned for being particularly dark and people come from miles around to witness this wonderful display of stars lighting up the skies. It’s an experience not to be forgotten!

SA’s best regions and our latest offers

With great hotels to base yourself and an abundance of activities to choose from you will not fail to have a fabulous winter Weekend Escape in any of these delightful spots.

For more information about our latest FREE Penfolds offer, click here.

Otherwise, find out more about many more destinations around SA right here with the help of our travel blog!