A locals guide to Berri, South Australia

SA Weekend Escapes was lucky enough to have a work experience student in our office. When we found out Abbie was from the Riverland ,we had to ask her to share with us her favourite things to do and see in her home town of Berri. She did a great job, you can read Abby’s blog here..


My name is Abbie
Cawse, and I was born and bred in Berri, South Australia……

I grew up like many others in Berri on a citrus property as the Riverland is renowned for its local produce and fresh fruit. Berri is situated in the centre of the Riverland making all towns surrounding it very easily accessible and giving it a great community feel. I attended Monash primary school and Glossop High school for my schooling in the Riverland before moving to boarding school at Westminster School in year 10. I am currently doing year 11 at Westminster and really enjoy coming back home on the long weekends and holidays. Berri for me is a very friendly community and somewhere I can relax and enjoy the outdoors with the fresh country air away from the hustle and bustle of Adelaide. I enjoy getting amongst the community and embracing everything Berri has to offer from the river, scenic bush walks and the local produce. Berri is a great place to visit with the diverse range of activities available making it suitable to all different types of people. Below are 6 places that I highly recommend visiting this winter in your stay at Berri that will certainly make you want to come back 

What to see and do in Berri-

Wilabalangaloo

Originally apart of the Cobdogla station Wilabalangaloo is a nature reserve situated along the riverfront in Berri, South Australia. Compromised by a variety of walking trails and surrounded by rich mallee plants and animals it is suitable for both hiking and leisurely walks. The longest of the walking trails being 2.5km, each have lookouts and plenty of cliffs that allow for walkers to take in the beautiful views of the River Murray and mallee plantation that surrounds them.  

Berri Marina to Martins Bend 

Beginning at the Berri Marina just a small distance from the centre of Berri the 2.5km trail to Martins Bend showcases the wetlands and natural environment along the riverfront and surrounding areas. Home to approximately 60 different species of wildlife there is quite the diverse variety of flora and fauna that can be viewed along the walk. This walk will also take you past many historical sites like Aboriginal murals and a tribute to Jimmy James a nationally renowned crime tracker. Martins Bend a popular water skiing, camping, and swimming spot is ideal for families to have a picnic or barbeque along the grassed areas whilst taking in the views of the River Murray.  

Kayaking  

Perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset kayaking is a great option for families or anyone who loves the outdoors. Locally owned canoe Adventures in Berri offer Kayak and canoe hire so you can embrace the Murray River and all that it has to offer. With the endless waterways and networks there is plenty of chances to look around and get up close and personal with the nature and wildlife that the River Murray has to offer. Canoe Adventures also have guided tours where local experienced and qualified instructors can take you around to all their favourite places. 

Where to eat in Berri- 

Berri Hotel

Looking for somewhere to eat in Berri? Located along the picturesque waterfront the Berri hotel is a great place to relax after a long day exploring all that Berri has to offerAs a family friendly hotel, it provides a variety of traditional pub meals that are catered to suit everyoneYou can’t go wrong with the Mongolian Beef stir fry or the salt and pepper squid if you are a seafood lover which are both personal favourites of mine. So go and relax whilst taking in the beautiful views of the River Murray over breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Berri hotel  

Riverland wine centre at Pike River  

Recently opened in 2019 the Riverland wine centre located at Pike River just 15 minutes from the heart of Berri hosts the enormous range of wines from 25 wineries situated around Riverland. Try a variety of 5-star wines catered to your liking individually or in large groups with local Sonya Pfitzner who is passionate about showcasing the Riverland’s high-quality wines. While wine tasting indulge in the seasonal local produce and locavore platters provided by the café with their unique relaxed grazing style. Sitting around a fire and wine tasting is an ideal way to spend a winters night.  

Salena Estates  

Salena estates is a local family-owned business just 9 minutes from the main street of Berri. One of the top 20 wine producers in Australia and an average production of 15,000 tons of wine makes it one of the Riverland highest quality wineries. The 250 hectares of grape vines situated around Salena estates makes for a great view form their Italian restaurant Cucina 837. Cucina 837 is renowned for their Pizza and Pasta from the fresh Riverland produce and of course their own wines which can be bought from there cellar door. This is a great option for a family dinner or wine tasting with some friends.  

For more things to see & do in Berri you can check out our Ultimate Guide to Berri

 

Thank you to Abbie Cawse for the work!