The summer holidays are here and it's time to get out and about around South Australia to explore the beautiful locations and activities our state has to offer.

Words Hannah Lally

Canoe Adventures

The Riverland is a great place to explore the River Murray with the wealth of side-creeks and wetlands, wildlife and birdlife, cliffs and towering gums – and Kym Werner from Canoe Adventures loves helping people enjoy it. In the Berri region, Murray River National Park or in secluded areas, he leads an entertaining and informative one-way sunset tour or multi-day trips set at any pace, which can be booked online. Kayaks are also available for hire and can be delivered with maps to any campsite, with his local knowledge at hand. 

The Amazon Run Shuttle Bus

Garry Hoffmann drives his Amazon Shuttle Bus around the Riverland, transporting tourists or locals for their journey of discovery, around the craft breweries, wineries and distilleries in the area, as well as local food hotspots. Garry’s tours are relaxed, fun and full of insight. As a friend of businesses throughout the region, he’s passionate about supporting them and sharing the experience with groups ranging from two to 29, with multiple vehicles readily available. 

Murray River Walk Guided Tours

The Murray River Walk is a multi-experience tour where guests discover the magic of the River Murray through easy walking and river cruising. The immersive tour enables guests to appreciate the spectacular scenery, learn about the past and present challenges of river management, see evidence of local Aboriginal culture, encounter birds and wildlife from the ground and experience modern houseboat accommodation. Murray River Walk is a four-day, three-night easy guided walk with knowledgeable guides and exclusive access to river landscapes in high-value conservation areas as well as three-course meals showcasing local produce and wines. The all-inclusive walks depart from Renmark, from May to September. 

Monash Adventure Park

Off the main highway in the small community of Monash is an adventure park ripe for exploration for children and adults of all ages, with a maze, giant swing and space to roam, all for free.

The Grape Escape Boat Tour

Caudo Vineyard’s Grape Escape Boat Tour is a custom high-speed luxury vessel that roams the River Murray for wine and wildlife tours. The flat-bottomed boat can fit groups of up to 40 people for sights around every bend and a taste of river lifestyle, while sampling the vineyard’s drop. A tour schedule is regularly updated online, and the Grape Escape is also available for private and customised tours.

Loveday Rally & 4×4 Adventure Park

The privately owned and run Loveday Rally and 4×4 Adventure Park is a haven for thrill-seekers visiting the Riverland. Catering for everything from quiet riverside camping to hardcore 4×4 driving, the adventure park is fun for all the family on 3240 hectares, with expert guides and safety measures in place for each activity. The park is also home to the Loveday Tavern for drinks, a playground, two natural lakes for water activities and a stretch of the Murray for a secluded escape.

The Village, Historic Loxton

Loxton’s historic village is an immersive step back into life as an early settler in the Riverland, through 45 recreated buildings and exhibits on the Murray. Visitors can see how early farmers, citrus growers and winemakers began life in the region, with churches, homes, schools and general stores providing an interactive playground. Exhibits are brought to life on “Alive Days” hosted on weekends listed on the website.

Burk Salter Boutique Wines and Wetland Tour

At Burk Salter Boutique Wines, owners Greg and Jane Salter guide visitors around the property and the natural wetlands surrounding the vines. Conducted in their restored 1927 Chevrolet truck, Greg and Jane drive small groups in the lower reaches of the Riverland in an area filled with birdlife, flora and natural landmarks, finished with wine tasting and platters at the cellar door.

Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery

With vistas of the River Murray and surrounding bushlands, the Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery delivers on its slogan “brew with a view”. Set in the original shearing shed on the historic Wilkadene property, this craft brewery has grown from hidden gem to tourism hotspot since opening its doors in 2009. Patrons can expect an authentic small-brewery experience with the Woolshed remaining loyal to its roots as a proud supporter of other local businesses and paying homage to the rich history and character of the unique setting. Continually trialling and creating new and exciting products, alongside their award-winning beer, wine and cider is a smorgasbord of local produce for lunch daily.

Benson Park Horse Riding

Benson Park near Waikerie offers exploration of the Riverland with a difference. For the young and old, Ken and Bev Nitschke lead trail rides over the rolling hills of their 121-hectare property, in addition to farm stays, twilight rides, bushwalking and functions in their barn and grounds.

 

This story first appeared in the SALIFE Food & Wine List 2019.