Murray River Eco-Experience

Arrive into the historic Riverland town of Renmark and make your way to the Renmark Hotel situated on a sweeping bend in the Murray River.

Renmark Hotel

An early start today as you meet your guides and fellow travelling companions in Renmark, the heart of South Australia’s Riverland district. After a short briefing, board your pontoon “cruiser” for the 14 -kilometre cruise along the mighty Murray River to the starting point of your walk. Heading out from the vessel on today’s walk (12 kilometres), you’ll discover the lagoons that are havens for waterbirds, learn about the site of a World War II Japanese internment camp and cross creeks that feed the red gum forests and box woodlands. A gentle climb through the cliffs reveals a magnificent view of the vast Murray River floodplain which will be ever-present over the next three days. You will be met by the cruiser and transferred across the river to your houseboat, and home afloat, for the next three days. After a warm welcome, cool your feet off in the river or the hot tub and prepare for tonight’s 3-course dinner paired with local wines.

Houseboat | BLD

Rise before dawn and meander up a gentle slope to the rim of the Murray River valley for a spectacular sunrise. Watch as the sun’s first rays bathe the river country in warm hues and marvel at your route ahead. Return to the houseboat for a hearty breakfast before today’s 14 kilometre walk discovering Aboriginal canoe trees, giant red gum forests and small islands along leafy Amazon Creek.

Houseboat | BLD

Awake to a dreamy mist on the water before a steaming hot cup of coffee and a tasty breakfast. Settle in for an informative presentation on the Murray Darling Basin and the management of its network of rivers running from Queensland, through New South Wales and the ACT, Victoria and finally South Australia. This complex system spans 77,000 kilometres of rivers and drains 14% of the Australian landmass. Cruise to the Chowilla Creek Environmental Regulator and learn about environmental watering and new stewardship for the river, before setting off on the day’s 10-kilometre walk. Hike along Chowilla Creek amongst restored wetlands and visit the proposed site of the 1960’s Chowilla Dam. This afternoon, celebrate the completion of the walk at Queens Bend Cliffs before cruising back to the houseboat as the late afternoon sun illuminates the red rock face.

Houseboat | BLD

After breakfast take a self-guided two kilometre walk along the river, before cruising in the pontoon boat through Lock 6. Experience a gentle drop in the water level of three metres. Rejoining the houseboat downstream, you will cruise for two hours to the innovative Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery, set in a 100-year-old shearing shed on the banks of the river. Meet the head brewer who will share the secrets of craft beer production before a farewell riverside barbecue. Return to Renmark by bus where you farewell newfound friends and continue on to Paringa and your award-winning retreat, The Frames, perfectly situated in an elevated position above the river.

The Frames | BLD

Today, for a more relaxing pace, be inspired by the quiet beauty of the Murray’s many waterways, on an exclusively guided wetland cruise. You’ll encounter indigenous plants and wildlife up-close in your own comfortable and customised ‘dinghy’. Experience the creeks and wetlands in true Australian style, from an angle most people never see, as your Riverland guide shows you every nook and cranny. Finish with a delicious morning tea and gourmet lunch as you watch the birds and wildlife glide by.

This evening you’ll enjoy a sunset cruise in a beautifully restored gondola to top off your Riverland adventure.

The Frames | BLD

Return home today from Paringa.

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