Hidden Gems on the Murray River

Embark on an adventure off the beaten track along the Murray River, exploring the charming districts of Ulupna, Tocumwal, Cobram and beyond.

Discover hidden beaches, delightful foodie finds, scenic walks, and captivating galleries that showcase the unique beauty and culture of these lesser-known Murray River gems. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or an art aficionado, this guide will lead you to the best spots for an unforgettable experience along the Murray River.

Here are our top hidden gems on the Murray River

#1 Cactus Country

This feels like a little piece of Mexico right here in Australia, just three hours north of Melbourne (or an hour east of Echuca). This 6Ha garden is home to some of the largest Cacti you’ll ever see! Owner Jim Hall clearly has a passion for Cacti and Mexico and the combination is surreal! Enjoy the Cactus Cake and Cactus Ice Cream as well as their delicious Mexican menu featuring tacos, nachos and frozen margaritas!

#2 The Paddock at Ulupna

A picturesque retreat on 180 acres of beautiful Australian bushland just 10 minutes from Cactus Country, the Paddock at Ulupna is the perfect spot for a relaxing nature escape. Located on Ulupna Island – nestled between the Ulupna Creek and the Murray River – they are a five-minute drive to natural river beaches perfect for a refreshing swim, barbequing delicious local saltbush lamb, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
At night, sit around the campfire to tell stories and watch kangaroos snack on the nearby grass.

Just look up for not only the most incredible stargazing but also to find koalas in the trees – Fluffy Butt and River are their most beloved regulars.

#3 Tank & Tobin Ulupna Bird Sculptures

Ulupna Island has recently become the home of some incredible Bird Sculptures designed by local artists Tank and Tobin. The birds have been installed by Ulupna Pastoral although you can see the sculptures from the road.

#4 Ulupna Beach

Ulupna Beach on Ulupna Island is just a 5 minute drive from The Paddock at Ulupna. Enjoy a refreshing swim or light a campfire and enjoy the sunsets over the river in the cooler months.

It really is an incredible spot to unwind and relax.

#5 The Big Strawberry

Drop into the Big Strawberry for seasonal strawberry picking or to try their famous strawberry pancakes!

#6 Town Beach, Tocumwal

A short walk from Tocumwal is a spectacular river beach, grab a coffee from The Fifth Daughter or The Wall Cafe in town and then make your way down to Town Beach with a picnic to laze the day away.

#7 The Fifth Daughter, Tocumwal

A Melbourne style cafe in the riverside town of Tocumwal and the perfect spot for breakfast before exploring the area. Close to the cafe is a large lawn area, the famous Murray Cod Sculpture, a modern splash park and the Aviation Museum, a relatively new attraction in town where you can learn about this significant, unique and secret part of Australia’s civil and military history.

#8 Corner Store Cafe, Cobram

Often referred to as the best coffee in town by locals, The Corner Shop in Cobram offers home made artisanal gelato and espresso to please the most avid coffee lover and sweet-tooth alike. Also serving shakes, smoothies, juices and other hot and cold beverages alongside toasted sandwiches and sweet and savoury snacks. The shop has a nostalgic vibe, complete with a mixed lolly bar and is an award-winning meeting place proving popular with locals and visitors. Come for the coffee and ice cream, stay for the tunes.

#9 Thompsons Beach

Voted Australia’s 12th best beach in 2012, Thompson’s Beach is a Murray River highlight.
Towering river red gums, a white sandy beach and evening floodlights make this the perfect spot to relax and hang out with friends and family from dawn till after dusk. Thompson’s Beach has electric barbecues, a playground, and hosts plenty of activities like swimming, trail walking, beach cricket, volleyball, canoeing and fishing. If you're feeling extra fancy, you can even dine at the popular Beach cafe.

#10 The Sporties Mini Golf, Barooga

This brand new mini golf course in Barooga will challenge and entertain. Pick up some clubs at the club house and see who can take out the podium!

# 11 Numurkah Telegraph Hotel

As beer enthusiasts, the Morris Family began brewing their own beer in 2019 with plans to launch their own handcrafted beer in 2020. In the most challenging year to date for the family business, they have continued working towards creating a beer that represents where they come from, tastes good and will be enjoyed by locals and visitors to the region. Dine in for the best parmy and chips and then head up the street to The Numurkah Hotel to check out the cocktail bar.

# 12 Bruce's Track

Explore this 6.4-km circular trail near Burramine, Victoria, known for its easiness, it takes about 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. Perfect for birding, walking and mountain biking.

Open year-round, it is beautiful to visit at any time.