Visit Murray River, Australia

The Murray River is Australia’s Mississippi, with paddle-steamers passing riverside towns such as Swan Reach, its clifftop views, and Mannum, relics of pioneer.

The first river crossing was made at Murray Bridge, which is where many cruises start. Aboriginal legends surround this treasured water supply, which attracts a wealth of wildlife including yellow-billed spoonbills, fat-tailed dunnarts and possums.

Walking trails line the banks and disappear deep in to the bush. An array of cruising options — from cruises to rental houseboats — enable you to meander along the river among the red gums which line its banks.