Taking the Melbourne to Murray River road trip presents an opportunity to explore a wide variety of landscapes. There are locally produced wines to drink, the Mighty Murray River, Museums and tranquil desert-like terrain. In this article, we will travel down to the Murray River, at Echuca, the Edward River at Deniliquin. Then back to the Murray River at Barham/Koondrook and down stream to Swan Hill.
Below is a suggested 14 day itinerary. There maybe some areas that you are more interested in and wish to stay longer. Such as staying an extra day in Echuca or Deniliquin and less time in Swan Hill. Maybe you have an interest in the history of the Murray River and wish to visit the Barmah Red Gum Forest.
Day 1: Driving From Melbourne To Benalla
This is a 2-2.5 hour drive, it’s mostly on the Hume Freeway (M31) and other highways. So, the road conditions are likely to be excellent for the majority of the trip. Once you leave the city and travel north, the suburbs will give way to rural farmland beyond Seymour. There are plenty of rest stops and service stations for restrooms, breaks and refreshments.
Driving from Melbourne to Benalla is simple and scenic and if you set off early you will have time to explore Benalla in the afternoon. The Benalla Art Gallery, town murals, and Lake Benalla are a must.
Benalla Art Gallery
The Benalla Art Gallery can be found on Lake Benalla, this is where you can see the painting of Joe Byrne (a member of the Kelly Gang) by Albert Tucker and the “Siege at Glenrowan ” tapestry by Sidney Nolan. There are many works from other notable artists, such as: Charles Blackman, John Brack, Fred Williams, Frederick McCubbing, Grace Cossington-Smith, Eugene von Guerard and many others. The gallery is open from 10am to 5pm daily and admission is free.
Attractions Around Lake Benalla
The artificial Lake Benalla construction was completed in 1975 when the Broken River was diverted. The lake is found north of the main bridge, it’s a great place to take a flat 4.2km stroll or enjoy a picnic.
Nearby, you can find the Benalla Art Gallery: the Costume and Pioneer Museum, and the Benalla Botanical Gardens. During the walk around the lake, visitors can explore Casey Island, Jaycee Island, the Ceramic Mural, the analemmatic sundial, the Indigenous community garden, Tally Ho Tailer, the historic rail bridge, and the Fateful Massacre site. Plenty of local birds and animals, including platypus, rakali water rate, and more.
Check into your chosen accommodation, enjoy the sights, and look forward to an excellent dinner.
Day 2: The Glenrowan Day Trip
Glenrowan, Victoria is a stop on the Hume Freeway that’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in the legend of Ned Kelly. This town is where the Kelly Gang underwent their final siege at the Jones Hotel before the capture of Ned Kelly.
The standoff occurred after a murder attracted the police to the area by train and the gang sabotaged the rail line. The gang set up in the hotel, but a school teacher escaped and managed to warn the train before it hit the damaged section of the track. The site of the siege is a registered heritage precinct and you can find memorabilia and references throughout the town.
The town name is derived from James and George Rowan, two brothers that worked the pastoral stations in the area between 1846 and 1858. The arrival of the railway line in 1873 prompted further development with town allotments and a primary school! The Glenrowan Tourist Centre has the “Ned Kelly’s Last Stand” animatronic show and it’s a great way to learn more about the topic.
Ned Kelly Museum
The Ned Kelly Museum and Homestead has artifacts and exhibits related to the gang. The Ned Kelly statue is a must-see, this is the third statue, it was made in 1992, it’s 6 metres tall and it weighs 1.5 tonnes. It stands in front of the Glenrowan Post office.
A final stop must be a visit to Kate’s Cottage and Kelly Museum which is a homestead replica and museum. The name Kate refers to Ned Kelly’s sister and a walk through the ship takes you into the museum. Inside, the furnishings date back to the 19th century and most of them were made with an adze woodworking tool and a broad axe.
There’s also a coach and blacksmith’s shed to visit. The Cobb & Co gift shop is an authentic recreation of the original changing station which is a museum and shop. Here you can buy a vast array of Ned Kelly merchandise, such as: caps, belt buckles, socks and even letter openers.
It is well worth visiting this museum, the owners are very knowledgeable about Ned Kelly and the last stand at Glenrowan. They give you a short talk about the time and what is in the museum. Allow some time to walk around and read about that time, as well as walk through the cottage.
Day 3: Second Morning In Benalla
On day three, you can enjoy a leisurely day in Benalla. Spend the morning exploring the Winton Wetlands, which is the ideal spot for bird watching or walking the trails. The wetlands are one of the largest wetland restoration projects throughout the Southern Hemisphere. It is home to a variety of wildlife including plenty of bird species. There are also a lot of kangaroos around the wetlands.
There are trails of different difficulties and lengths, so you can explore the wetlands and immerse yourself in the scenery. Many trails start at the Mokoan Hub and Cafe, so you can also enjoy a coffee and a snack.
Be sure to check out the art installations throughout the wetlands. These are inspired by the local culture and the natural environment.
Exploring Benalla Victoria
In the afternoon, you could explore the Benalla Botanical Gardens. The gardens have been around since 1887 and they were constructed in an oval shape on an unused cricket field. The Rose Garden, which extends along the southern edge was added in 1959 and provides a beautiful and colorful collection of hybrid tea and floribunda roses. You can pick up a map of the gardens from the Visitor Information Centre.
After all that walking around, you can spend a relaxed evening in Benalla. Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before heading back to your accommodation.
Day 4: Benalla To Echuca
Today, you’ll need to drive from Benalla to Echuca. This is an interesting route, which allows you to follow the North East Silo Art Trail. The Silo murals span more than 8,500 kilometres, but there are three particularly spectacular locations along the North East Silo Art Trail.
The journey between Benalla and Echuca takes approximately 90 minutes. But it is well worth allowing time to stop off at each of the silo locations to see the amazing art and the natural attractions.
Arriving At Echuca
After a spot of lunch in Echuca, you can spend the afternoon exploring the Port of Echuca. The Discovery Centre tells the story of Echuca, which was the third largest port in Australia in the late 1800s. There are interactive displays and interesting exhibits including a working sawmill and a steam display. You can wander by yourself or take a guided tour.
Echuca is home to restored paddle steamers and taking one for a cruise down the Murray River is a experience. You can enjoy a unique perspective of Echuca and listen to the captain’s commentary. Depending on your choice of cruise, you may be onboard for an hour, but some companies offer longer trips if you prefer.
You can then enjoy dinner at one of Echuca’s riverside restaurants.
There are a lot of different choices when it comes to accommodation. Whether you have a caravan or want to stay in a cabin or Motel there are many to choose from in Echuca and over the Murray River at Moama. We stayed in cabins a bit out of Echuca at the Discovery caravan park on the Murray River. It is a lovely park and is just a short walk to the river for fishing or watching the river boats, and ski boats.
Day 5: Spend The Day Sight Seeing In Echuca
On a full day in Echuca, there is plenty to do, but a good starting point is the Billabong Ranch. There are some fantastic outdoor activities to suit visitors of all ages including horseback riding through the scenic countryside or walking the trails.
If you’re an animal lover, be sure to visit the animal nursery, where you can feed cute farm animals including goats, lambs, rabbits and chickens.
In the afternoon, you can relax and explore Echuca’s historic streets. There are plenty of shops to browse, or if your feet are getting a little tired, you could take a horse drawn carriage tour. These are full sized carriages that would have been used in Echuca’s heyday and you can be transported through the streets and the esplanade. You may even spot the perfect venue for a nice dinner to finish off your day.
Day 6: Echuca To Deniliquin
The drive from Echuca to Deniliquin takes approximately one hour, but since Deniliquin is a rural service town surrounded by parkland and state forest, it is a scenic journey. The district produces barley, wheat, rice, beef, lamb and dairy products, so take your time and enjoy a morning on the open road.
In the afternoon, you can learn about one of the events that makes Deniliquin unique; the Deni Ute Muster. Every NSW Labour Day weekend, the Deni Ute Muster has various stages for Australian and international artists, helicopter and camel rides, a rodeo, wood chopping demonstrations, trade and catering stalls, whip-cracking displays, and the “Ute Show and Shine” competition.
In 1999, the Deni Ute Muster took the title as the largest ever Ute parade in the Guiness Book of World Records with 2,839 participating drivers.
Even if you’re not visiting during the event, you can explore the Deni Ute Muster Museum on the festival grounds. The museum is open Monday to Friday and is packed with exhibits including a “Feral Kev” 1979 HZWN Bitza. You can also buy muster merch.
In the evening, freshen up in your accommodation and consider having dinner at the “Cruizin Diner” or another local restaurant to get ready for a day of exploration.
Day 7: Attractions To Visit In Deniliquin NSW
One of the highlights of taking a Melbourne to Murray River trip is exploring the Edward River in Deniliquin. You can walk along the Beach to Beach Riverside Walk and stop off at the Peppin Visitor Centre. The Edward River branches off from the Murray River at Picnic Point near Mathoura.
The Peppin Centre was the first public school in Deniliquin and it is a regional museum. There are permanent exhibits and local displays that tell the story of the creation of Peppin Merino by the pioneers.
Further along the Edward River you can see boats, kayaking, fishing areas and some beautiful swimming spots. If you feel up for some activity, you can use the river for paddling, floating or even trying water skiing. The river has a no ski and ski zone, so you don’t need to worry about speed boats if you want to try kayaking or swimming.
For those who enjoy a good walk, you can walk down to McLean’s Beach. There is a track connecting Willoughby’s Beach to McLean’s passing by the centre of town, so you can enjoy a snack or drink before continuing your scenic walk.
After lunch, be sure to visit The Depot. This is a massive collection of classic and vintage vehicles throughout the 3,000 square metre complex. There are vehicles that date back to the 1940s and associated memorabilia.
Day 8: Deniliquin To Barham
The Drive from Deniliquin to Barham takes approximately one hour, so you can take your time. But remember that there is plenty to do in Barham, so don’t sleep in too late!
Spend the day exploring the Barham Koondrook area, which is along the Murray River. There are safe swimming spots along the river or you can enjoy canoeing, kayaking or boating in the tranquil waters. The Murray River is also a popular fishing spot with Murray Cod, Redfin, Golden Perch and other species.
The Gunbower National Park is also nearby which includes forests, wetlands and floodplains, and is home to a diverse ecosystem. You can also explore the Barham Koondrook Red Gum Forest, which has some Red Gums that are over 500 years old or take a self guided tour along the Koondrook Barham Heritage Trail, which has information boards dotted along to highlight the points of interest.
Bear in mind that the Barham region is well known for its local wines and craft beers, so be sure to try a few when you have dinner. The Barham Club is one of the best venues in the area, but there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area.
Day 9: Barham To Swan Hill
On day nine, you’ll be heading to the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement in Swan Hill. Since this historical attraction needs at least a full day to fully explore, try to get on the road early. It takes approximately 90 minutes to drive from Barham to Swan Hill.
The Pioneer Settlement contains approximately 50 buildings that date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. These heritage buildings have been restored or recreated, so you can check out an authentic general store, blacksmith’s shop and original homesteads.
There are also some interesting exhibits including agricultural tools, household items and clothing. You can watch a live blacksmithing demonstration or watch craftspeople using traditional woodworking skills or making rope.
Costumed people wander around the settlement and they chat to the visitors with stories of pioneer era people and events. You can even dress up in period costume and take a photo as a souvenir.
Be sure to allow plenty of time to take a cruise along the Murray River on the PS Pyap. This paddle steamer trip allows you to immerse yourself in the scenic river views. The Pyap cruises each area at 2pm each day and there is a morning cruise during school holidays.
Day 10: Swan Hill River Walk And Art Gallery
Since this itinerary includes several days in Swan Hill, day 10 provides an ideal opportunity for a sedate and relaxing day. After breakfast, take in the Swan Hill River Walk. The starting point is Milloo Street and the walk spans several kilometres out of town. Along the walk, you’ll see the historic Lift Bridge and highlights of the history of the area.
When you head back into town, you can spend the afternoon in the Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery. This public art gallery opened in 1966, but it moved to its current location on the banks of the Marraboor River (Little Murray) in 1987.
The exhibits include native art, sculptures, prints and more. There are also guided tours, workshops, artist talks and even sometimes live music.
After dark, you’ll need to head back to the Pioneer Settlement for the Swan Hill Laser Show. This sound, light and 3D laser show across the water is a must see. There is a nine metre water screen that shows the Murray River story over 30 million years. There are two different Laser shows and they run alternate nights, so it is a good idea to book your tickets in advance.
Day 11: Day Trip To Lake Boga
Take a day trip to the Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum, which is perfect for those with an interest in military history. This was a secret base for the west shore flying boats during the second world war, when a base was needed to repair the boats countering the Japanese attacks on Darwin and Broome.
The Catalina flying boats had the potential to fly up to 32 hours, but it was vital that there was a repair location to keep them in the air. The base closed after the war in 1947, but it was transformed into a museum, where you can see a communication bunker, archive footage, records, photographs, tools, engines and a perfectly restored Catalina flying boat. Lake Boga is also the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic, so be sure to bring lunch with you.
Back in town, try Java Spice or the Commercial Hotel for a delicious dinner before you head back to your accommodation.
Day 12: What To See Around Swan Hill
Today, you should try to take in the highlights of Swan Hill. The Giant Murray Cod is near the Swan Hill Railway station and it is well worth seeing. This statue is 11 metres long and 6 metres wide, and while it is now a tourist attraction, it was created for the 1992 movie Eight Ball. Today, the town has embraced the statue as a celebration of the Murray River and its freshwater cod.
The Burke and Wills Tree is another significant landmark in Swan Hill. The tree is on Curlewis Street opposite the Swan Hill Bowling Club. It is a tribute to the ill-fated expedition undertaken by Robert O’Hara Burke and William John Wills. Burke and Wills led the first expedition to cross south to north Australia from Melbourne. The aim was to map new routes through the interior and gather scientific data. Unfortunately, the expedition ended in the tragic deaths of Burke, Wills and several other members of the party.
The Clock Tower was unadorned and an example of local architecture until 2011. The tower stands 10 metres tall and features four sides with white clock dials. It was presented to Swan Hill by R.D Elliott, chairman of the local newspaper. It was renovated in 2012 and features ceramic tiles showing Swan Hill highlights.
Take your time wandering through Swan Hill and there are plenty of nice cafes along the Main Street to stop off for a bite to eat during the day.
Day 13: Day Trip To Sea Lake
On your final full day in Swan Hill, you should head out for a day trip to Sea Lake. Sea Lake is approximately 50 minutes drive from town via the B400 Murray Valley Highway South. With so much to see and do, you should try to head out early.
The first stop should be Lake Tyrrell, which is Australia’s largest salt lake. There are beautiful and unique landscapes, particularly if you arrive at sunrise. There are viewing platforms at various spots around the lake to get some stunning photos, but you can simply wander around to take in the tranquility.
If you stop off at the Sea Lake township, you can explore the local museum. Here you can learn the town’s history and the connections to Lake Tyrrell. There are murals and street art throughout Sea Lake and some delightful cafes. However, for a great lunch, visit the Junction Hotel, which offers great food and a lively atmosphere.
After lunch, drive out to Green Lake, a nearby freshwater lake before heading to Lake Tyrrell. This pink lake dates back 120,000 years and can provide unique photo opportunities. If time allows, stay after dark to view the dazzling constellations and how they are reflected in the surface of the lake.
Day 14: Swan Hill- Melbourne (about 4 Hours)
Now your Melbourne to Murray River trip is almost over, it’s time to head home. The journey will take approximately four hours, depending on traffic, but if you’ve missed some of the sights in Swan Hill, you may want to catch up and head home later in the day.
You can break up your trip with a stop at the Bridgewater Bakery. The Bakehouse is the perfect spot for a coffee break and it offers a nice cafe menu. You can enjoy a light lunch or snack with scenic river views. You can also stretch your legs with a final Murray River walk before getting back on the road.