Top 10 Things to Do in River Country This Summer

Summer in River Country is the perfect time to immerse yourself in wide-open landscapes, vibrant towns, rich culture, and unforgettable river experiences. From adventure on the Murray to arts, food, wildlife, and boutique villages, this beautiful region offers something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to discovering the best of River Country this Summer.

1. Explore the Mighty Murray River

The Murray River shapes life throughout River Country, and Summer is the season to experience it at its finest.

Cruise the river aboard a paddle vessel from nearby towns, hire a canoe or kayak, or simply relax by the water’s edge at one of the region’s many peaceful river beaches. Water lovers can enjoy swimming, water skiing, stand up paddleboarding, and fishing along some of the most scenic stretches of the Murray.

Thrill -seekers can level up their skills with Brett Sands Watersports, where expert coaching helps you master waterskiing, wakeboarding, or wake surfing on one of Australia’s most iconic stretches of river. Prefer a relaxed pace? Let’s Boat offers easy boat hire—perfect for cruising the river, exploring sandy riverbanks, or finding your own quiet fishing spot. Gather friends or family and enjoy a day on the water with a spacious pontoon boat, ideal for picnics, swims, and sunshine-filled river adventures.

Cool off at popular swimming spots across the region or settle in for a riverside picnic as the sun sets behind the river red gums. Whether you’re chasing excitement or tranquillity, the Murray delivers endless summertime magic.

 

2. Visit Local Wineries & Cellar Doors

River Country is home to a growing collection of boutique wineries and exceptional tasting experiences.

Explore the Perricoota region’s favourites:

• St Anne’s Winery – A regional icon known for its crisp whites and fortifieds.
• Morrisons Winery – A relaxing riverside venue serving beautifully paired food and wine.
• Barham Vines – A charming vineyard in Barham producing small-batch, handcrafted wines with heart.

Spend your day sampling local varietals, enjoying long lunches, and soaking up the river views.

3. Discover River Country’s History & Culture

Uncover the stories and heritage that shape this diverse region.

• Wander through historic Moulamein – One of NSW’s oldest river towns, Moulamein invites visitors to explore its heritage buildings, riverside trails, and peaceful country charm. Don’t miss the Moulamein Heritage Village, where historic buildings, machinery, and displays bring the region’s pioneering past to life.
• Discover the Mathoura Heritage Walk – Pick up a map from the Mathoura Visitor Information Centre and explore the town’s pioneering past at your own pace. This self-guided trail leads you to historic landmarks, telling the stories of the early settlers who shaped the community.
• Explore the Barham Flywheelers Museum – Step back in time at this fascinating collection of restored engines, machinery, tools, and memorabilia, showcasing the region’s farming and mechanical heritage. A must-see for history lovers and families alike.
• Stroll Tooleybuc’s historic bridge and riverfront precinct – Learn about the town’s connection to the Murray River as you take in scenic views and discover key moments in its riverboat and transport history.

4. Feast on Local Food & Country Hospitality

River Country is full of fantastic dining experiences — from riverside restaurants to classic country pubs and farm-fresh cafés.

Enjoy everything from relaxed breakfasts to gourmet dining, with standout venues including:

• Timbercutter Restaurant (Mathoura) – Rustic eats surrounded by towering red gums at Picnic Point.
• Tattersalls Hotel (Moulamein) – A friendly, hearty pub experience in a historic riverside town.
• Tooleybuc Hotel – Recently recognised with seven NSW Hospitality Award nominations, offering warm country service and quality meals.
• Murray Downs Country Club – A premier dining and entertainment destination overlooking championship golf greens.
• Riverbank (Moama) – Elevated modern dining with river views and local produce.

Whether you choose a casual counter meal, winery lunch, or a refined dinner by the water, River Country delivers flavour in every direction.

5. Embrace Nature & Outdoor Adventures

River Country’s landscapes burst with life in Summer — red gum forests, wetlands, creeks, lakes, and abundant wildlife.

Must-see nature experiences include:

• Reeds Bird Hide & Boardwalk (Mathoura) – A peaceful wetland sanctuary where you can spot spoonbills, pelicans, ibis, and dozens of native species.
• Wakool & Surrounding Wetlands – A paradise for anglers, birdwatchers, and those seeking untouched river landscapes.
• Moulamein Lake & River Walks – Serene trails perfect for early morning strolls and photography.
• Tooleybuc River Trails – Quiet riverside stretches ideal for picnics, fishing, and nature spotting.
• Barham’s Riverside Walks & Koondrook–Barham Bridge – A favourite for walkers and cyclists.

Whether you’re hiking, paddling, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the stillness of the bush, River Country’s natural beauty is unforgettable.

6. Explore Local Markets

River Country is home to vibrant markets showcasing fresh produce, handmade goods, and local creativity. Start at Murrabit Market, one of Australia’s largest country markets held on the first Saturday of each month. Then browse the Echuca Farmers Market on the first and third Saturdays for paddock-to-plate produce and gourmet small-batch treats. Enjoy the relaxed, community vibe of the Moama Market, featuring food stalls, artisan products, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere at the Soundshell. Finish with a wander through the Hopwood Gardens Market, where leafy surrounds and a rotating mix of stallholders offer unique finds and delicious local goodies.

 

7. Family Fun for All Ages

Families will find plenty of adventure throughout River Country.

At TwistED Science, children can dive into an interactive play space filled with fun experiments and hands-on activities. For a day full of adventure, head to Billabong Ranch, where the little ones can enjoy pony rides, mini-golf, and explore the exciting adventure playground. If you’re after some friendly competition, try your hand at barefoot bowls at Moama Bowling Club or enjoy a round of mini-golf at Rich River Golf Club . Don’t forget to visit Aqua Island, where the whole family can have a splash on the inflatable water park, offering endless fun for all ages!

This summer, families can also  step into a world of imagination with Wonderland on the Murray, an extraordinary sand sculpture trail bringing Alice in Wonderland to life along the Murray River. Running from 13 December 2025 to 9 March 2026, this free, all-ages event transforms Echuca Moama into a whimsical outdoor gallery crafted by the talented team at Sandstorm Events. The journey begins at the historic Port of Echuca, where visitors will watch Alice tumble down the rabbit hole before following a trail of eight large-scale sand sculptures through the Port and Aquatic Reserve. Iconic moments and beloved characters — including the Caterpillar, Cheshire Cat, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the White Rabbit, and the Queen of Hearts — appear in breathtaking detail along the way.

Crossing the river into Moama, the trail concludes at Kerrabee Reserve, where the enchanting Alice’s Tea Party inside the Soundshell provides a delightful finale.

 

 

8. Tour the River Country Art Trail

Tour the River Country Art Trail and discover the region’s vibrant water tower artworks in Moama, Moulamein, Barham, and Mathoura. Each tower tells a unique story — celebrating local history, culture, wildlife, and the landscapes that define these river communities. From striking murals of native birds and red gum forests to tributes to the region’s heritage, the trail offers a colourful journey through River Country’s creative spirit. Wander, explore, and be inspired as you take in these towering open-air galleries across the region.

9. Take to the Skies

For something extraordinary, book a Murray Darling scenic flight and witness River Country’s breathtaking landscapes from above — sweeping rivers, patchwork farmland, wetlands, forests, and charming country towns. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

10. Explore Local Produce & Farmgate Goodness

River Country is rich with farm-fresh flavour, artisanal products, and growers who pour their passion into everything they produce. Summer is the perfect time to discover these local delights, meet the makers, and take home the tastes of the region.

• Perricoota Olives – Womboota
• Just a short distance from the Murray River and the historic village of Womboota, Perricoota Olives is home to thriving groves of Frantoio, Correggiola, Manzanillo, Barnea, and Kalamata olives. These premium varieties are crafted into some of the region’s finest extra virgin olive oils, known for their exceptional freshness, rich flavour, and quality. A must-try for any food lover exploring River Country.
• Barham Avocados – Barham
• Grown in the fertile Murray River soils, Barham Avocados deliver a rich, creamy flavour that has earned a loyal following. For a one-of-a-kind experience, stay at Lost and Found, the orchard’s architecturally designed on-farm retreat. Wake up among the avocado trees, breathe in the fresh country air, and enjoy sweeping views of the beautiful Pollack Forest. It’s River Country produce at its most immersive.
• Martin Family Cherries – Moama
• Since 2003, Martin Family Cherries has been growing premium cherries using a biological, chemical-free approach. Their perfectly ripened fruit is a true taste of summer, and visitors can also enjoy cherry ice cream, jam, chutney, and other sweet treats made right on the farm. A delicious stop for families, fruit lovers, and anyone craving a taste of River Country sunshine.
• Pacdon Park – Moama
• Bringing the flavours of the UK to Australia, Pacdon Park in Moama crafts authentic British classics using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. In their purpose-built factory, they create favourites such as Melton Mowbray–style pork pies, scotch eggs, black pudding, haggis, free-range pork sausages, and streaky bacon — each made with traditional techniques and big British flavour. A unique and tasty addition to your River Country foodie trail.

 

Plan Your River Country Summer Adventure

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended escape, River Country is rich with experiences — from its natural wonders and cultural heritage to its food, wine, and warm country hospitality.

This summer, discover the charm, creativity, and adventure that make River Country truly unforgettable.