Relaxing, peaceful, beautiful: The mighty Murray River is the perfect easy getaway

Aug 08, 2020
Sit back, relax and take in the surroundings on a spectacular Aussie cruise this year. Source: Getty

Just imagine soaking up the sunny rays as you laze about on the deck of a historic houseboat and cruise down the Murray River, with the sound of birds chirping in the background and a slight breeze whistling through the trees. It sounds like an absolute dream, especially amid such chaotic and uncertain times.

That’s what makes the mighty Murray so loved though. It brings a kind of peace that’s needed when one wants to escape their everyday lives and relax for a few days (or longer if desired!). Each year thousands of people young and old travel to Victoria and South Australia to visit the Murray River.

Some choose to kick their feet up and relax on a cruise, while others prefer to stay on land and head out on the water during the day with kayaking or boating adventures. There’s also the opportunity to explore the river banks, with various walks along the river, which spans more than 2,000 kilometres, and many wonderful small towns to venture through such as Echuca and Mildura in Victoria and Renmark and Mannum in South Australia. A visit to the Murray River is a beautiful way to see some incredible parts of the country and spend time in nature.

So, if you’re a South Aussie in need of a break, or from another part of the country and looking to plan a holiday for later this year or next year when restrictions are eased, an adventure on the Murray River could be just the thing to ease the stress and take your worries away.

Travel at 60 currently has some incredible deals on offer, with cruises onboard the iconic Murray Princess. The historic paddlesteamer is classic and beautiful. It features private and relaxing bedrooms, upper and lower lounge areas which are accessed by elegant brass and mahogany style spiral staircase, and a beautiful deck area where you can take in the surrounding views.

Each week the Murray Princess cruises down the river between Mannum, Murray Bridge and Salter’s Station, providing passengers with a peaceful journey in which they can take in the sights and be treated to delicious meals and excellent hospitality.

For the South Aussies who are looking to get away in the next couple of months, Travel at 60 is offering 25 per cent off select trips onboard the Murray Princess, including a three night cruise and a seven night cruise.

Departing on selected Fridays in August and September this year, the new three night “long weekend” cruise travels upriver from the historic post of Mannum with overnight stops at Salt Bush Flat, Big Bend and River View Lodge. During the cruise you’ll be treated to delicious meals in the dining room prepared by the onboard chef, join guided nature walks, watch a very entertaining typical Australian woolshed show, and partake in a small boat wildlife tour.

While on the seven night cruise, you’ll also depart from Mannum, but be treated to extra activities throughout your journey including cellar door tastings at Caudo Vineyard and a visit to well-known Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre.

Meanwhile, for those living outside of South Australia, don’t fret. There’s plenty of other deals for the Murray Princess which depart much later in the year, and into early 2021.

You can spend four nights on the paddlesteamer and still be treated to many great activities, delicious food and have time to relax and unwind as you cruise towards Blanchetown from Mannum.

If you’re in holiday planning mode and want to book in your next getaway, give our friendly call centre team a ring on 1300 414 198 to get started!

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