The Murray River - River Country The Murray River - River Country

Murray Downs – Swan Hill

The perfect combination of small Aussie community lifestyle and world-beating golf.

Murray Downs is a destination renowned for its community lifestyle. Just a short drive across the historic lift bridge to Swan Hill, it has plenty of activities and nearby attractions to entertain the whole family.

Murray Downs was formerly part of the 1839 Murray Downs Station, an area once the largest property along the banks of the Murray River.

The original Murray Downs Homestead, built in 1870, is a gracious privately-owned Victorian mansion, best seen from the river on a Murray River cruise (homestead in no longer open to the public).

Autumn Highlights in Murray Downs

Tee Off at Murray Downs Golf & Country Club

Autumn’s mild, sunny days create ideal conditions for a round on Murray Downs’ award-winning 18-hole championship course. Home to the 2024 NSW Open and framed by pristine fairways and mature native gardens touched with seasonal colour, the course offers a rewarding challenge for golfers of all levels. Enjoy a crisp morning tee-off or a golden afternoon round, then unwind at the clubhouse with a drink and sweeping views across the greens in the soft autumn light.

Cycle the Scenic Murray River Route

Set out from Swan Hill’s Riverside Park and cross the historic Murray River bridge into Murray Downs for a picturesque autumn ride. Follow Murray Downs Drive past open paddocks and expansive river landscapes glowing in warm seasonal hues, with the Murray never far from view. Clear skies, gentle sunshine and fresh country air make this a beautiful and memorable cycling experience.

Discover Local History

Step back into the region’s pastoral heritage with a visit to the historic Murray Downs Homestead. This elegant 19th-century property shares stories of early settlers and showcases architecture that stands proudly against the rich tones of the autumn landscape.

By Night: Experience the Heartbeat of the Murray

As crisp autumn evenings settle over the Murray, experience the magic of the Heartbeat of the Murray laser spectacular. Set against the flowing waters of the Little Murray River, this world-class 360-degree multimedia show blends water, light, laser, sound and special effects to tell the epic story of the Murray. Travel back 30 million years and journey through time as the river’s evolution unfolds before you — a mesmerising and unforgettable autumn night experience beneath clear country skies.

Take a Drive to Restdown Wines or Andrew Peace Wines

Extend your autumn escape with a scenic drive to one of the region’s standout wineries.

At Restdown Wines, explore a tranquil 1,100-acre property of natural bushland, farmland and certified organic vineyard. Book a guided tasting, enjoy a seasonal sharing platter, or settle in for a leisurely lunch in the unique underground cellar — especially inviting as the air turns cool outside. Wander the Wetland Walking Trail, a 1.4-kilometre loop highlighting Indigenous heritage sites, ancient river systems and thriving native flora and fauna. Farmer Don’s guided walks (for groups of six or more) offer fascinating insight into the region’s ecology, Indigenous culture and pastoral history — perfect for a relaxed autumn afternoon.

Or visit Andrew Peace Wines, one of Australia’s largest family-owned wineries. Set along the Murray River, this long-established estate produces award-winning wines from rich riverbank soils. Sample premium varietals — including robust reds ideal for the cooler season — and enjoy the warm hospitality that has defined the Peace family’s legacy for more than 40 years.

Riverside Ride Along the Murray

Take advantage of mild, sunny autumn days with a leisurely ride along the Murray River, starting at Riverside Park in Swan Hill. Cross the historic bridge into Murray Downs, passing riverbanks brushed with seasonal colour and expansive farmlands as you follow Murray Downs Drive through the township, finishing at the Murray Downs Golf Club. With gentle sunshine, fresh country air and sweeping river views, autumn is a beautiful time for this picturesque riverside ride.

Discover River Country … where the best memories are made.