When it’s cold and grey outside, nothing beats tucking into a hearty meal by the fire of a country pub. It’s here you can completely chill out, sharing a glass of warming red with friends, and kicking back to some relaxing live music and iconic river views.

Winter is the perfect time to head indoors—and discover the warmth, old-style hospitality and heritage charm of a country pub.

We’re spoilt for choice in the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong region, so we’ve put together our guide to some of our favourite pubs for your winter weekend escape.

Want a spectacular river sunset with your pub meal? The Swan Reach Hotel has one of the best river views around—along with great classic pub fare (and kids eat free on Fridays!).

This historic gem of a pub has been given a facelift and a new lease on life. It’s the place to be on weekends with food vans dishing up everything from Asian to Mediterranean fare, a fire pit in the beer garden and regular life music to get your toes tapping.

It might be a small pub, but the Palmer Hotel is big on hospitality and history. For 156 years, they’ve been serving up delicious meals in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. It’s open plan beer garden on the lawns, overlooking the Palmer hills is iconic for those milder days too.

Escape to the river with family or friends with a meal at the Pretoria overlooking the Murray. Looking for something fancy? Ask about their wine dinners—pairing a local winemaker with a gourmet dinner to remember.

One of the best views around—and service to match. The recently revamped Bridgeport Hotel has you covered for great dining options, spectacular views over the river and twin bridges, and cosy accommodation so you can make a night of it.

One of SA’s oldest country pubs, the Welly (as it’s affectionately known by locals) is where the river ends and the fun begins. Established in 1846, you’ll find all your pub meal favourites and a top notch wine list heavy on the warming local Langhorne Creek reds.

Speaking of Langhorne Creek – a pub worth travelling for, the Bridge Hotel is a popular spot with day trippers for its open fires, generous meals, and top wines. There’s also a children’s room to keep the little ones entertained – and a nearby playground for those who need to move!

If you’re exploring the lakes, the Meningie Hotel is also a must. With new owners, a new menu and family-friendly atmosphere it’s always a welcoming spot. Eat like a local and go for the bao buns or Coorong mullet fish tacos—and try your luck to win the giant meat tray on Fridays.

They call it the ‘highway stop that the hits the spot’, and if you’re on the Dukes Highway the Coonalpyn Hotel needs to be on your radar. Expect cozy woodfires, homestyle cooking, and comfortable onsite accommodation.

Another great spot for travellers, the Lameroo Hotel Motel is a welcoming community pub that serves up hearty meals and old-fashioned hospitality. Looking to stay? The Lameroo Lakeside Caravan Park is just metres up the road.