Our tips for the best March long weekend on the Murray River
With the March long weekend almost upon us, it’s time to find your way back to our riverside paradise. And unlike this time last year, we have more room to roam with those closest to us. So whether a getaway along the Murray River is your long weekend tradition – or you’ve simply chosen to experience for yourself our famous river lifestyle, magical landscapes and exceptional wine – we’re excited to welcome you back.
With the March long weekend almost upon us, it’s time to find your way back to our riverside paradise. And unlike this time last year, we have more room to roam with those closest to us.
So whether a getaway along the Murray River is your long weekend tradition – or you’ve simply chosen to experience for yourself our famous river lifestyle, magical landscapes and exceptional wine – we’re excited to welcome you back.
Even better is that we’re letting you in on our tips to make the most of your upcoming escape with friends, family or best holiday companions.
But first – let’s find the perfect place to rest your head.
Let us introduce you to our friends Dave and Wendy at River Shack Rentals. This duo manages a fantastic collection of everything from premium and budget-friendly holiday stays along the Mighty Murray.
With a combined experience of over 40 years in the industry – and a passion for helping others fall in love with the Murray River (just like they did many years ago), they understand everyone has a different holiday style. From modern two-storey waterfront houses, spacious well-equipped retreats perfect for entertaining – all the way to a cosy, pet-friendly shack or something a little more unique (anyone up for a private putt-putt course?). You’ll quickly realise the team want nothing more than to help you destress and find the perfect relaxing holiday home.
To make life easier for you, we’ve listed some of River Shack Rentals’ stays off the river below based on your potential travel size, and included experiences/itineraries to incorporate in your trip.
Want to dodge the crowds?
217 Purnong Road is high on the list for family and friend groups who enjoy wide open spaces all to themselves. It’s a quirky little spot, set on an acre of countryside 2km out from Mannum, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist town – yet have the convenience of being a short drive to the main street!
This place comes with your own private jetty to kayak from, a barbeque area under shady trees, children’s play area, basketball, full-size soccer goal and even a mini putt-putt course.
Gearing up to holiday with a large family?
3 Thiele Road in Murray Bridge is ideal for a family that can’t get enough of the river. With the popular Thiele Reserve (including a new playground and kids swimming area) just below the property, you’ll probably be spending most of your weekend water-skiing and sprawled out on the lawn watching the kids challenge themselves on the playground.
When you’re not being active during the day, chances are you’ll be digging into a cheese platter from the wicker lounge setting on the balcony. When we say we could sit here all day – we mean it, just check out that view!
Our tip: Test out the levee bank walking trail starting from Thiele Reserve. You can continue your walk under the historic town bridges, towards the Ukee Boat Club, or divert along the bridge for a coffee run to MOJOs in the Marketplace.
Somewhere to relax in luxury with a group?
Just around the corner from Thiele Road is 40c Lookout Drive. This spacious open-living home is set atop of a cliff, giving you unlimited panoramic river views from nearly every room of the house. Just image all the magical sunrises and sunsets you can enjoy!
Everything you could need for a comfortable extended stay is here – just bring along your favourite bottle of local Langhorne Creek wine. Or instead, make time to visit the ‘Creek during your stay!
One of our favourite cellar doors Kimbolton Wines will be hosting another one of their popular food events on the Saturday (6 March) with a food truck serving scrumptious wood fired pizzas – yum!
Weekend away on a budget?
If you’re more likely to be getting about in Mannum during your stay, then we suggest this 2-storey house, conveniently located at 5 Esplanade.
On one of the days you’re here, stretch your legs (or jump on a bike) and follow the riverside towards the town’s main street (less than 2km), stopping at Mary Ann Reserve on the way. If you have kids, they will love the new fully fenced, boat inspired playground with slides and climbing nets.
Once you’ve grabbed your coffee and nibbles from a nearby bakery or café, from here you have a couple of options:
- Head over to the Mannum Dock Museum of River History for a step back in time, or to experience the interactive displays;
- Continue your walk following a trail going past Haythorpe Reserve and towards East Front Road (take a free ride on the dual ferries to get across);
- Take a river cruise with the historic PW Mayflower or join Four Knots on a nature cruise.
A getaway for two?
11 Pellaring Lane offers a one-bedroom riverfront granny flat tucked away 10-minutes outside of Mannum. This is ideal if you’re looking for quiet spot, or as a base so you can explore Mannum and surrounds.
Worth noting – this spot allows caravans or camper trailers to pull up for couple nights (application needed). So during your next touring holiday, take a load off at Pellaring Lane when you’re looking for a break in between your journey and are craving those creature comforts.
How about a pet-friendly stay?
If you can’t resist those puppy dog eyes every time your pooch knows you’re about to leave them for a few nights, try out 38 Green Banks Drive. This pet-friendly riverfront shack is a gem located in Sunnyside (less than 20-minutes outside of Murray Bridge). This spot puts you right on the water’s edge, with a shared jetty to dangle your line.
For a full list of River Shack Rental’s available properties within the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong and our neighbouring Riverland region for Friday, 5 March to Monday, 8 March 2021.
Otherwise, just take a browse and plan a trip ANYTIME of the year along the magical Murray River. The quiet times between May-June are some of the most pristine on the water as well, as the summer winds die down and the water becomes glass most days.