Summary
Short description
A gentle adventure along one of the most picturesque sections of Australia's longest river
Highlights
- Let guided walks take you through red gum forests and ochre cliffs
- Gain expert insight into the local ecology and indigenous culture
- Overnight accommodation on an exclusive houseboat with gourmet dining included
- Expect scenic walks and cruising with plenty of wildlife spotting
- Unwind with a glass of Riverland wine on the houseboat deck, with views of kangaroos grazing at dusk
In pictures
About
Recommended for:
History & culture | Natural world | Off the beaten track
This four-day extension trip takes you through South Australia’s super scenic Riverland region, ideal for those seeking a balance of gentle adventure and immersion into nature. Beginning in historic Renmark, the guided walk traces 40 kilometres of the Murray River’s most scenic stretches, where ochre cliffs, wetlands and river red gum forests reveal the region’s ecology. Each day’s walking is complemented by expert interpretation of local wildlife and indigenous heritage, while evenings are spent aboard the exclusive High River houseboat, where you can enjoy chef-prepared gourmet meals, local wines and private en-suite cabins.
Day by day itinerary
Day
1
Renmark to Headings Cliffs
Your adventure begins in Renmark, South Australia, where you'll meet your expert guides and fellow walkers in the early morning for a pre-walk briefing (we recommend staying overnight at the simple but historic Hotel Renmark, the meeting point for the walk). Board a private cruiser for a journey along the Murray River, offering opportunities to spot Australian pelicans, black swans and perhaps even a wild koala. Disembark at Woolenook Bend to commence your walk through red gum forests and box woodlands, crossing creeks that feed the river's floodplain. A gentle climb leads to Headings Cliffs, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After the day's walk, transfer to your houseboat accommodation, where a hot spa awaits, followed by a three-course dinner paired with local wines.
Stay: High River Houseboat
Meals: L D
Day
2
Chowilla Creek
Rise early for a gentle ascent to the rim of the Murray River valley, witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the ochre cliffs. The dawn chorus of honeyeaters and whistlers adds to the serene atmosphere. Return to the houseboat for a hearty cooked breakfast before embarking on today's walk. Discover Aboriginal canoe trees, traverse giant red gum forests, and explore small islands along the leafy Amazon Creek. Along the way, learn about the region's rich cultural heritage and ecological significance. In the afternoon, enjoy a local tasting plate as you relax by the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
Stay: High River Houseboat
Meals: B L D
Day
3
Bunyip Reach Cliffs
Awake to the mists rising from the river and enjoy a refreshing coffee accompanied by local navel oranges. After breakfast, cruise to the Chowilla Creek Environmental Regulator to learn about environmental watering and the stewardship efforts aimed at preserving the river's health. Your walk today takes you along restored wetlands and the proposed site of the 1960s Chowilla Dam. In the afternoon, celebrate your journey with a walk to Queens Bend Cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the river and its surroundings. Return to the houseboat as the late afternoon sun illuminates the red cliffs, and unwind around a campfire before dinner.
Stay: High River Houseboat
Meals: B L D
Day
4
Return to Renmark
After breakfast, take a self-guided 2 km walk along the river, enjoying the morning light and the peaceful ambiance. Rejoin the houseboat and cruise through Lock 6, experiencing a gentle drop in the water level of 3 metres. Continue downstream for two hours to reach the innovative Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery, set in a 100-year-old shearing shed on the riverbanks. Enjoy a barbecue lunch prepared by your guides, whilst overlooking the scenic river bend. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers as you depart for Renmark, arriving at the Renmark Hotel early in the afternoon.
Meals: B L
This extension is suitable for…
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