In the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong, where our stunning natural environment is one of our biggest drawcards, you’ll find unforgettable places and unique experiences that make every holiday an adventure to remember.

Come with us to meet the locals behind some of our favourite attractions. They’ve turned their passion for our region and all it has to offer into experiences that welcome you into their world – offering more than just a place to stay, but a chance to connect with the backyard they love.

Step into the cellar door at Lake Breeze Wines and be welcomed into an experience over 130 years in the making.

The first person you’ll likely meet is cellar door manager Tilly – she’s the friendly face behind the bar pouring out tastings of Lake Breeze’s premium wines.

She’s also part of the extended Follett family who run everything here, from growing the grapes to crafting the wines, serving delicious restaurant dishes, creating unforgettable events, and hosting luxurious stays.

Farming the same land since the 1850s, the family first planted vines in the 1880s, and they’ve been winemakers since 1987.

It’s a heritage that’s created a reputation for outstanding wines across popular and alternative varieties. (Their wines have won an impressive 60 trophies and 180 gold medals over the past 30 years!)

When you visit, you’ll be welcomed like one of the family. Enjoy a guided wine tasting, or unwind with lunch on the upstairs deck surrounded by stunning vineyard views.

Lake Breeze is also the home of the Handpicked Festival every November, drawing crowds for a vibrant mix of music, markets, food and wine in an idyllic setting among gumtrees and sweeping lawns.

The estate’s elegant Barrel Room is a sought-after venue for weddings, parties and private gatherings. Lake Breeze is also one of five local wineries partnering with Monarto Safari Park through the Grapes for Good initiative, donating part proceeds from their Bernoota wine to help protect the critically endangered Bongo antelope in Kenya.

When you step into Lake Breeze, you’re not just exploring a winery; you’re connecting with Langhorne Creek’s history, hospitality and heart.

Meet Josh – the captain at the wheel of unforgettable cruises that blend relaxation, delicious dining, and spectacular scenery.

Step aboard the beautifully-restored historic Captain Proud Paddle Boat at the heritage wharf precinct in Murray Bridge and let Josh and his welcoming crew spoil you.

Indulge in a three-hour lunch cruise with a delicious two-course meal as you glide past towering cliffs, tranquil waters, and vibrant wildlife. The period-style dining area creates the perfect setting to unwind, take in river history, and snap amazing photos.

For a memorable night out, step aboard for a Gin and Cheese Twilight Cruise, or a Burlesque Show and Cruise, where elegance meets cheeky charm.

The Captain Proud is also a favourite for weddings and special occasions, where the ever-changing beauty of the river scenery provides the perfect backdrop.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing meal on the water, a romantic wedding location, or a touch of local history, Captain Proud Paddle Boat Cruises offers an experience that’s both memorable and uniquely South Australian.

Meet Stu and Anna. They’re the locals who know the best spots along the Murray River to ski, paddle and fish – and they’ve got the equipment to get you out on the water.

Their business, Freedom Boat Hire, offers something for everyone. From a peaceful paddle in a kayak exploring wetlands and serene backwaters, through to a tinny for a relaxing day fishing, or an adrenaline rush skiing and wakeboarding.

No boat license? Freedom offer chartered boat hire, so you can ski, wakeboard, kneeboard or tube all under the guidance of a qualified driver.

For something truly out of this world, let Freedom teach you how to Fliteboard—and feel like you’re flying over the water.

Wherever you holiday along the river, Freedom cover the Murraylands and Riverland from their bases in Murray Bridge and Barmera.

Discover the spectacular water playground that is the Murray River with Freedom Boat Hire.

Meet Craig and Tammie, and John and Margaret – the friendly faces at the Swan Reach Hotel serving up a hearty meal and cold pint while you soak up stunning 180-degree views of the Murray River.

At 126 years old, the hotel has a rich history and has always been a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Now it’s even more of a drawcard thanks to significant investment by owners John and Margaret who co-lease the hotel with Craig and Tammie.

The quartet came onboard in 2021, with Craig and Tammie bringing over 27 years of hospitality experience – and a bit of a full circle moment for Craig, who worked at the hotel as a teenager.

The group brought with them a plan to breathe new life into this historic gem.

The recently added lawned beer garden offers arguably the best views of the Murray River from this clifftop dining spot (the sunsets here have to be seen to be believed). A major kitchen renovation in 2024 and upgrades to the dining area have enhanced the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and dining experience.

From pub classics to more modern flavours, the menu has something to tantalise all tastebuds.

While Craig and Tammie are the ones you’ll likely see behind the bar, John and Margaret have been busy building the tourism profile of Swan Reach. From the craft shop and op shop to the Mid Murray Classic Car Gallery, they’re passionate about creating things to see and do here.

One of the biggest natural attractions is the night sky – and John and Margaret have created a luxurious base for stargazers at the Gateway to the Galaxy Apartments (conveniently located next to the Swan Reach Hotel). From here, you’re right in the heart of the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve – one of the best spots in Australia to see the Milky Way in all its nighttime glory. The daytime views aren’t bad either, with the riverfront veranda the perfect spot for a relaxing morning coffee.

So, for real country hospitality, you can’t go past the Swan Reach Hotel.

Narelle and Joel are combining a passion for teaching and for their cows to give people of all ages an insight into dairy farming.

Dairy Adventures, based on Narelle’s parents’ working farm at Mannum, was born out of Narelle’s lifelong dream of teaching and her deep connection to the dairy cows she has worked with since she was a child.

They welcome families, school groups, and other groups for hands-on, fun-filled tours that take people behind the scenes of working farm life, from feeding the calves and watching the milking process, through to hands-on kids’ activities and learning about how they take care of the land they farm.

Together with Narelle’s Dad, they’re also dedicated to nurturing the fertile and delicate soil of the Murray River swamps that grow exceptional feed for their cows through environmental irrigation and sustainable farming practices.

Drawn to the Coorong’s rugged landscapes and rich biodiversity, Kate created Coorong Life as a way to share her love for the area, inviting guests to slow down and embrace a more sustainable way of living.

Her custom-built KipPods, fitted with South Australian-made solar panels, harness renewable energy and rely solely on rainwater, ensuring minimal environmental impact. A strong waste and recycling program further reduces each guest’s footprint.

But for Kate, sustainability is also about fostering creativity. Her Artist in Residency program provides free stays to artists, weaving an extra layer of inspiration and connection into the Coorong Life experience.

Jock and Michael, a father-and-son team are dedicated to sharing the beauty and history of the Coorong with visitors. Michael, now Director of Spirit of the Coorong, is the third generation of River Murray Captains in his family. He’s worked alongside his father Jock since 1992, and together, they continue the family’s legacy of immersive, nature-based tours.

Their deep respect for the environment is reflected in every aspect of their tours. As an advanced ecotourism-certified business, they go beyond leaving no trace – they actively contribute to conservation efforts, ensuring the pristine riverine environment thrives for future generations.

And to offset carbon emissions, their team gets their hands dirty with tree planting initiatives, working alongside GreenFleet and local conservation groups to restore native habitats. It’s a hands-on approach to sustainability that reflects their long-standing commitment to the river and its ecosystems.

Brenton, the guide behind Canoe the Coorong, is dedicated to sharing the unique beauty of the Coorong while ensuring it stays protected for future generations.

With years of experience and a degree in Eco Tourism from Flinders University, Brenton brings an authentic, hands-on approach to every kayak tour, offering guests a deep connection to this pristine environment.

But Brenton’s commitment doesn’t stop at the paddles. He’s passionate about conservation, ensuring the Coorong remains a vital ecosystem for years to come. With the T-QUAL tick of approval, Brenton’s eco-friendly tours are a true celebration of nature, designed to showcase the beauty of the Coorong while supporting its long-term protection.

Coorong Wildside Tours isn’t just about showcasing the Coorong – it’s about rethinking how we use its resources. That’s where Tracy’s culinary mission comes in. She’s flipping the script on carp, a fish often seen as a pest in the Murray-Darling system.

By serving up carp in creative ways (think delicious fish cakes, sausages, and mince) Coorong Wildside Tours is proving that this fish deserves a place on the plate, all while helping to manage an invasive species.

Meanwhile, Glen, an experienced fisherman, brings a lifetime of knowledge to their tours, giving visitors an insider’s perspective on the Coorong’s delicate ecosystem and the importance of responsible fishing practices.

Kelly, the powerhouse behind Juggle House Experiences, is on a mission to show people the beauty of the night sky – without the glare of artificial light. Her River Murray Dark Sky Tours take guests deep into the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the world’s best locations for stargazing.

But Kelly’s vision extends beyond the telescope. She’s passionate about raising awareness of how artificial light affects wildlife and ecosystems, ensuring the reserve remains protected for future generations.

And with a strong focus on accessibility – offering AUSLAN interpreters, a second telescope designed for wheelchair users, and sensory-friendly travel options – she’s making sure everyone can experience the magic of the stars.

Dave and Wendy Hartley established River Shack Rentals in 2007, bringing nearly two decades of experience in riverside accommodation. For them, it’s all about helping visitors experience the region like locals.

Specialising in holiday homes along the Murray River, they offer a diverse range of self-sufficient properties from Morgan to Wellington. Many of these remote river shacks embrace off-grid living, featuring solar panels, rainwater tanks, and greywater systems to reduce environmental impact while immersing guests in the authentic river lifestyle.

Whether it’s a peaceful fishing retreat or a lively family getaway, Dave and Wendy want every guest to enjoy the magic of river life, just as the locals do.

Eight years ago, Louise and Rufus fell in love with 89 acres of serene bushland in Caloote, envisioning it as a sanctuary where they could create lasting memories with family and friends. After years of hard work, they traded suburban life for the tranquillity of the river, turning their passion for travel and nature into something they could share with others.

Now, Reedy Creek Retreat’s eco-friendly glamping tents operate entirely off-grid, harnessing solar power and using smart design to minimise environmental impact. The retreat encourages guests to connect with nature through low-impact activities like birdwatching, photography, and nature walks.

So, the next time you’re exploring the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong, don’t just visit – connect with the people who call this slice of paradise home. Let these dedicated operators share their love for the land and show you a side of the region that’s as authentic as it is unforgettable.