For most of its predominantly east-west route through Australia, the river forms the border between New South Wales and Victoria. The Riverland region begins where it crosses into South Australia, and for 300 kilometres it creates wide lakes, reed-lined narrow creeks, islands and wetlands of infinite variety.
Less than a two-hour drive from Adelaide, the region is much-loved as a destination for outdoor and water-based activities such as houseboating, fishing, golfing, bushwalking, swimming, gliding, canoeing and skiing. And for sheer relaxation: lazy days on the riverbank watching the distinctive river birds, exploring museums and galleries, also visiting cellar doors and local produce outlets are always rewarding.
The network of backwaters, wetlands and lagoons are home to abundant wildlife and fast becoming ecotourism treasures. The region includes the UNESCO-listed Bookmark Biosphere Reserve (BBR) and 40 national and conservation parks that protect widely differing ecosystems.
As the river’s course twists and turns, and its waters spread out into lakes and convoluted lagoons and wetlands, you might be forgiven for thinking it was reluctant to leave the Riverland. Which is how you will feel once you visit this richly rewarding region.
