Best 5 Things to do before or after your Murray River Cruise in Victoria

A Murray River cruise is an iconic way to explore the scenic beauty and historical richness of Victoria. However, the journey doesn’t have to begin or end on the river. The regions surrounding the Murray River in Victoria are brimming with attractions and activities that are well worth exploring. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, here are some top things to do before or after your Murray River cruise in Victoria.

1. Discover Echuca-Moama

Echuca-Moama, located on the banks of the Murray River, is often the starting or ending point for many river cruises. This twin town, with Echuca on the Victorian side and Moama in New South Wales, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Historic Port of Echuca: Step back in time at the Port of Echuca, once the largest inland port in Australia. Visit the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre to learn about the town’s paddle steamer heritage. Walk along the historic wharf and see the restored paddle steamers, or take a short cruise on one of these magnificent vessels.

Murray Esplanade: Stroll along the Murray Esplanade, lined with heritage buildings that house cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Enjoy a meal at a riverside eatery, and savour local wines and produce.

Echuca Chocolate Company: Indulge your sweet tooth at the Echuca Chocolate Company, where you can sample and purchase a variety of handmade chocolates and confectioneries.

2. Explore the High Country

Victoria’s High Country, located a short drive from the Murray River, offers stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and charming towns.

Mount Buller: If you’re visiting in winter, head to Mount Buller for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Victoria. In the warmer months, the area transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding. The views from the summit are breathtaking all year round. You should definitely have this as one of the top things to do before or after your Murray River cruise.

Beechworth: This historic gold rush town is a must-visit. Stroll along the well-preserved streets, visit the Beechworth Historic Courthouse, and explore the Beechworth Gaol. Don’t miss the Beechworth Honey Experience, where you can learn about honey production and taste a variety of honeys.

Wineries: The High Country is also known for its excellent wineries. Take a wine-tasting tour through the King Valley or the Alpine Valleys, and sample some of the region’s finest wines, including Prosecco and cool-climate Shiraz.

3. Enjoy Nature in the Murray-Sunset National Park

The Murray-Sunset National Park, located in northwest Victoria, is one of the state’s largest national parks and offers a unique outback experience.

Pink Lakes: The park is famous for its Pink Lakes, which get their colour from the algae in the water. The best time to see the vibrant pink hues is during the late summer and early autumn. Walk along the trails around the lakes and enjoy the stunning scenery. You won’t want to miss this in your list of things to do before or after your Murray River cruise.

Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and many bird species. Bring your binoculars and enjoy bird watching in this remote and peaceful environment. One of the most relaxing things to do before or after your Murray River cruise.

Bushwalking and Camping: Explore the park’s extensive network of trails, which range from short walks to multi-day hikes. Camping is available in several designated areas, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Australian bush.

4. Visit the Historic Goldfields

Victoria’s Goldfields region, located southeast of the Murray River, is rich in history and offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s gold rush era.

Bendigo: Explore Bendigo’s grand architecture, a legacy of its prosperous gold rush past. Visit the Central Deborah Gold Mine for an underground tour, explore the Bendigo Art Gallery, and take a ride on the Bendigo Tramways Vintage Talking Tram.

Ballarat: Another historic gold rush town, Ballarat is home to Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that recreates a gold rush town. Pan for gold, watch street performances, and learn about the lives of the gold miners. A must to add to your list of things to do before or after your Murray River cruise.

Castlemaine: Known for its vibrant arts scene, Castlemaine offers a mix of galleries, studios, and historic sites. Visit the Castlemaine Art Museum, take a heritage walk, and enjoy the town’s cafes and boutique shops. There are so many things to do before or after your Murray River cruise.

5. Relax in Mildura

Mildura, located in the far northwest of Victoria, is a thriving regional city known for its wineries, fresh produce, and vibrant cultural scene.

Mildura Arts Centre: This cultural hub hosts art exhibitions, theatre performances, and concerts. The centre also includes Rio Vista Historic House, a beautifully preserved mansion offering insights into Mildura’s history.

Murray River Adventures: Enjoy water-based activities on the Murray River, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. Take a paddle steamer cruise or hire a houseboat for a relaxing river experience.

Wineries and Dining: The Mildura region is famous for its wine and food. Visit local wineries for tastings and tours, and dine at one of Mildura’s many restaurants, which often feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Stefano’s Restaurant is a must-visit for a gourmet dining experience and one of the top 5 things to do before or after your Murray River cruise.

The regions surrounding the Murray River in Victoria are rich with attractions and activities that provide a perfect complement to a river cruise. From exploring historic towns and natural parks to indulging in gourmet food and wine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you choose to extend your stay before boarding your cruise or take some extra time to explore after disembarking, you’ll find plenty of things to do before or after your Murray River cruise to enrich your journey through this beautiful part of Victoria.