Classic country pubs, grand gold rush towns and river ports of the pioneer era set along the classic ‘bush’ backdrop of the Murray River, punctuated with the diverse characters and personalities that make up its story.
The less travelled northward journey out of Melbourne paints a quintessential, authentic Australian picture.
The sheer diversity of regions makes for a treasure trove of possibilities to venture off the beaten track to discover the hidden and obscure and meet those who provide a real insight into what it is to be Australian.
Set against classic landscapes, a story is told from the opening up of the country’s’ interior to the explosion of gold, speaking of incredible ingenuity and resilience in the face of adversity, booms and busts and a heritage that manifests itself today in fine produce and descendant artisans.
Bendigo – a major centre of the goldrush that transformed Australia – boasts stunning colonial buildings, major art galleries and a flourishing food scene recognised by the United Nations.
Inspiration
Overnight in luxury on an authentic paddlesteamer
Stay the evening on board the PS Emmylou in a luxury cabin. Enjoy a 5 course moonlit dinner, and awake to the sounds of the Australian bush.
Regional gourmet delights
A fabulous array of restaurants, local artisans, distilleries and micro-breweries await discovery. Lunch in the Goulburn Valley at the landmark Mitchelton Wines experiencing its signature Rieslings and Shiraz is highly recommended
Golfers paradise
An absolute locals mecca for golf with its riverside 18 hole courses. On course accommodation available.
Wine, water and more
The Murray River is a true playground. Try a water-skiing lesson at Echuca or Yarrawonga. Take in the beautiful Rutherglen region and its exceptional Tokays and Muscats. Indulge in lunch at the regal All Saints Estate.
Some of Australia’s finest examples of silo art are tucked away in the smaller towns off the main routes whilst Echuca itself exudes a time-gone-by era charm all its own.
The port district village and main street traders keep alive the spirit of a more down to earth time, of hand-crafted wares and true artisan produce. Take time to wander this fabulous township.
A local’s favourite, the Murray River provides a playground of opportunity from day or overnight luxury Paddlesteamer river experiences and gourmet meals to golfing and all manner of water activities in truly unique settings.
Extending your time in the region is well rewarded with the fabulous towns dotting the rivers banks including Yarrawonga and grand wineries of the Rutherglen region.
Visit the location of the Ned Kelly gangs last siege at Glenrowan on your return home.
The region offers a Mediterranean type climate making it ideal any time of the year and is the perfect antidote to just a city experience.
Other Experiences you may like
Grampians
An ancient and mysterious land.
Venture into the world of Gariwerd for the ultimate escape into nature and culture.
Great Ocean Road
An incredible story of time and place
One of the world’s great coastal routes presents drama and wonder every step of the way.