Our stretch of the Murray River is dotted with a string of floating getaways, ideal for a self-contained spring escape.

We’ve listed our top four below, all making for a great romantic weekend away with your partner, or better yet… a solo retreat to rest and recharge.

Even though they’re only an hour from Adelaide (located in the Riverglen Marina, just near Murray Bridge), you’ll feel a world away from reality.

We’re starting off with the award-winning Bill’s Boathouse, which was just named one of the Best Airbnbs in Australia to Book Now by Qantas Magazine.

It’s received high praise, and for good reason. This floating eco pod treats you to glassy water most mornings and the much-loved local swans (and cygnets) floating up to the wrap around timber deck.

It comes complete with a suite of luxury features like an outdoor bath, hammock, and firepit – so you can truly sink in to relaxation.

 

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If your idea of a perfect evening is sitting in a swingchair (with a wine in hand, of course), overlooking the water as the sun dips below the horizon, lighting up the sky with pastel hues – then the Floathouse is for you.

Our favourite thing about the Floathouse, is that you get SA’s iconic Murray River views from your queen bed. So, even on your laziest days spent curled up under sheets and blankets, you’re treated to picturesque scenery.

 

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For bigger groups of up to 6 people, the 3-bedroom Cristal houseboat is your best option.

It’s fantastic for entertaining – but there’s also a nook for everyone to have a bit of down time, with several entertaining areas. Choose from the large rear deck; fully appointed lounge room at rear; upstairs sunroom; or the upstairs outdoor area.

 

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Don’t stress about leaving your four-legged friend at home, Hex’d on Murray is a rare pet-friendly floating stay.

With a 360-degree deck, you’ll be treated to river and willow tree views from every angle. This floating stay is designed for couples, so you can bring your partner and spend your days unwinding on the deck, fishing with the provided rods, kayaking, and board games.

As the sun goes down, start the BBQ, pour yourself a glass of wine, and cook up a feast.

 

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If wellness is your goal, you’ll want to book a weekend with Ark-imedes.

Here you can roll out the yoga mat for a calming session on the deck, with an outdoor bath tucked around the corner for a post-workout muscle soak.

We also recommend bringing a good book and hydrating facemask, so you can hang in the egg chair and recharge by the river.

 

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You’ll drive through Murray Bridge on your way to Riverglen Marina, make a detour into Farm Fresh (an open-air fruit and veg market). Here you can stock up on local produce to make a charcuterie board filled with fresh fruit, crackers, pastes, and chocolate treats. Some labels to keep an eye out for are Aussie Apricots, Paradise Hill Honey, Rio Vista Olive Oil and Woodlane Orchard.

If you’re hoping to relax and take in the natural landscapes, you might enjoy the Kinchina Conservation Park walking trail, or a stroll along Sturt Reserve. Mowantjie Willauwar Conservation Park is home to a range of native plants and birds, and is only a short drive South East from Riverglen towards Tailem Bend.

For wine lovers, you can make the 25-minute trip out to Langhorne Creek Wine Region to indulge in a wine and cheese tasting at Kimbolton Wines, premium wine tasting at Bleasdale, gourmet lunch at Lake Breeze, or a pizza afternoon at Bremerton Wines.