Riverland Country

The fertile fields of the Riverland draw life from theCorner Hotel, located 18 kilometres north of Barmera
long hours of sunshine falling on them and from theon the Morgan Road. Commissioned in the 1850's as a
smooth flowing waters of the mighty Murray River-refreshment point for weary travellers (mostly cattle
offering up a juicy bounty of grapes, citrus fruits,drovers) and locals, today its now a pub with a
nuts and stone fruit. As a result this picturesque areamuseum in it housing many artefacts from the past.
has a substantial dried fruit industry and is the largestTheres a great atmosphere for you to soak up here!
wine producing region in Australia- but thats not all itsAnother historical place to visit is the ruins of Nappers
known for. Holiday makers have been coming hereOld Accommodation. Although it is just a shell now,
for years to enjoy a vacation in the sunshine, utilisingand certainly not a place to pick up a drink, this hotel
the Murray River for all sorts of recreational activities.was built in 1863 and used to be a vital storing place
The climate is mild and sunny, the landscapes arefor crop supplies for the farmers in the region.
beautiful, and the people are friendly. And at theOf course you cannot pay a visit to this region
heart of it all lies Barmera, a pleasant town with awithout spending a bit of time appreciating the
country atmosphere that will wash away the stressmajestic Murray River. It is also a haven for
of your everyday lives!watersports, and fishermen will relish the challenge of
The Riverland extends for 300 kilometres fromcapturing one of the elusive Murray cod. The best
Renmark to Waikerie. Lying 170 kilometres away,and most popular way to appreciate the Murray
Waikerie is the closest town to Adelaide and ishowever is on one of the large houseboats that are
reached by a easy 2 and a half hour drive in youroften seen floating past. Day cruises are available on
hire car. Barmera is 220 kilometres from Adelaide- athese, as are simple sunset cruises- nothing quite
pleasant drive through leafy fields and the lush Southbeats watching the orange rays of the sinking sun
Australian countryside. Its not quite close enough forreflecting off the smooth waters with a sundowner
a daytrip, and in fact you would want at least ain hand. The houseboats can be hired for longer
weekend to enjoy exploring the region, becauseperiods of a night or more where you self drive
theres a lot to see.them up the river and find appropriate places to dock
Barmera is perfectly located on the shores of Lakeat night. It is a refreshing taste of freedom and
Bonney, and as a result has become South Australia'sindependence on the water that you will never
favourite aquatic playground. The fresh water lakeforget, and that you will probably want to repeat as
comes alive with boats, canoes, kayaks and jetskissoon as you can!
on the weekend. Anglers are attracted from far andBack in Barmera Town another popular attraction is
wide by the lake's reputation as a fishing hotspot,Rocky's Country Music Hall of Fame. Built to
and on any given day they spread out along itscommemorate local country music legend Dean
shoreline or head into the deeper waters in a tinny orRocky Page, it houses a range of memorabilia from a
canoe. Sailing is also a popular pastime, and the yachtrange of country stars and has a large ten metre
club here has an enthusiastic body of members.high replica of a guitar. This town is big on its country
Every weekend they organise yacht races thatmusic, and hosts an annual festival that attracts
provide an impressive spectacle which is well receivedcountry fans and singers from across the country. If
by onlookers from the land. The lake is a beautifulcountry isnt your thing but your stuck for something
spot, so many just choose to relax and enjoy theto do, then head to the drive in, one of the last in
scenery over a few drinks or a barbeque. There is anSouth Australia. It shows current release films and is
impressive amount of wildlife living around the lakea fun outing for adults, kids or couples.
and on the adjoining wetlands, so keep your eyesThere is a large range of accommodation in Barmera,
open for wallabies and the like and different speciesso whether you want to camp, stay in budget
of birds.accommodation or treat yourself to a fancy hotel
Barmera town itself is a vibrant place, coming aliveyou will be catered towards. Remember you can
throughout the year for many festivals and shows-always be adventurous and hire a houseboat!
its residents dont hide the fact that they like aWherever you stay your time here is bound to be
reason to celebrate! It has a rich history, dating backrefreshing and invigorating, and you will take home
to about 1838, and this is evident in a lot of itssome special memories set amongst spectacular
attractions. Definitely worth a visit is the Overlandlandscapes.