From Cultural Wonders to Natural Escapes; Off-the-Beaten-Path Wonders
Exploring Sun Country and North of the Murray beyond the usual tourist spots unveils hidden gems that offer moments that truly mean everything. This often-overlooked region is brimming with experiences that deeply connect you to nature, culture, and history.
From tranquil wetlands to rich cultural discoveries and family-friendly adventures, every step invites you to pause, reflect, and create lasting memories in a place where time slows down and every moment is precious. Here are just some of our region’s most unique experiences that will make your winter or spring short break truly special.
1. Bullanginya Dreaming – Barooga
Nestled along the tranquil banks of Bullanginya Lagoon in Barooga, NSW, Bullanginya Dreaming offers a deeper journey into the region’s Indigenous heritage. This immersive experience is set against a mesmerizing laser light show that blends Bangerang cultural insights with the forces of light, water, and fire.
As you walk through the night-time track, you’ll encounter captivating installations that celebrate the deep connection between the land, local flora, fauna, and Indigenous traditions. More than just a visual experience, it fosters cultural empowerment, inviting visitors to connect with the rich heritage of the region and creating moments of understanding and appreciation.
2. Cactus Country: A Desert Wonderland – Strathmerton
For an adventure like no other, head to Cactus Country in Strathmerton, VIC. This 12-acre wonderland is home to over 20,000 cacti from all over the world, with towering specimens that will take your breath away.
In winter, the air brings out the vivid colours of the cacti against the bright blue sky, while spring brings new growth and blossoms. Wander through themed gardens, take a family photo under giant cacti, and enjoy the quirky cactus ice cream—an experience everyone can enjoy. The Cactus Café provides a relaxing spot to savour locally sourced food while soaking in the beauty of this desert-inspired oasis.
3. The Big Strawberry – Koonoomoo, VIC
For a fun, quirky family experience, make your way to The Big Strawberry in Koonoomoo. This landmark offers a chance to pick your own fresh strawberries and explore a working farm. It’s the perfect place for a family outing, where you can enjoy delicious homemade jams, local produce, and strawberry-themed treats. This lively farm provides a simple but memorable way to connect with the region’s agricultural roots.
4. Lake Mulwala – Mulwala, NSW
Known for its striking drowned red gums and calm waters, Lake Mulwala offers more than just fishing and water sports. Formed by the construction of the Mulwala Weir in the 1930s, the lake is a key feature of the Murray River system and a scenic spot to explore year-round. From peaceful beaches to sunset views and paddling opportunities, it’s a tranquil escape that blends natural beauty with local history.
5. Barmah Forest Heritage & Nature Walks – Barmah, VIC
Step into the world’s largest stand of River Red Gums with Barmah Forest’s peaceful walking trails, where nature and culture come together. Alongside tranquil bush paths, you can join a Yorta Yorta Cultural Walk or hop aboard the Kingfisher Cruises to gain deeper insight into the area’s Aboriginal heritage, wetland ecology, and unique wildlife. These quieter tracks offer a more personal connection to Country—perfect for those seeking reflection, discovery, and immersion in this extraordinary landscape.
6. Tungamah’s Historic Main Street – Tungamah, VIC
Step back in time as you wander through the historic main street of Tungamah, a small town that often goes unnoticed by visitors. Explore its vintage architecture and fascinating relics of the past. The town’s rich history offers a glimpse into the life of rural Victoria during the 19th and 20th centuries, making it a unique stop on your journey through the region.
7. Beaches of the Murray – Yarrawonga-Mulwala to Tocumwal
With over 100 sandy river beaches between Yarrawonga and Tocumwal, this stretch of the Murray is perfect for laid-back days by the water. Shady red gums, gentle currents, and calm swimming spots make it ideal for families, picnics, and lazy afternoon dips. Many beaches are easily accessible, offering the perfect escape for sun seekers and nature lovers alike.
8. Tocumwal Blowhole – Tocumwal, NSW
Just 11 km north of town, the Tocumwal Blowhole is a natural granite formation that springs to life when the Murray River is low, bubbling mysteriously from underground. Sacred to the Ulupna and Bangarang people, it’s a peaceful, culturally significant stop for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
9. Silo Art Trail – Moira Region, VIC
The Moira region boasts a vibrant collection of silo art, with towns like Tungamah, St James, Devenish, Picola and Waaia showcasing large-scale murals that celebrate local heritage and wildlife. From the dancing brolgas in Tungamah to the WWI nurse tribute in Devenish, each artwork tells a unique story, making the trail a captivating journey through art and history.
For a truly immersive experience, explore the silos by bike with AV Cycling Tours. Their guided tours combine scenic cycling routes with fascinating stories behind the murals, local insights, and plenty of time to soak up the region’s charm. It’s an active, eco-friendly way to connect with the art and the landscape.
10. Yarrawonga Weir & Lake Mulwala – Yarrawonga, VIC
Constructed in the late 1930s, the Yarrawonga Weir created Lake Mulwala, transforming the area into a hub for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Today, visitors can enjoy activities like boating and fishing on the lake, while interpretive signs around the foreshore provide insights into the weir’s historical significance and its role in shaping the region.
11. Kyffins Reserve and the Lakeside Walking Trail
Part of the longer Corowa Mulwala Cycle Trail, this stretch along the northern shore of the lake is within easy reach of Mulwala town. Enjoy the tranquillity of the beautiful shoreline of Lake Mulwala on this 2.2km track. Cycle or wander along the lake’s edge and you may just catch a glimpse of a platypus. This walk is exceptionally scenic as the sun sets. The chance to explore Lake Mulwala’s natural environs is one not to be missed.
12. Nulla Nulla Swamp & Redlands Hill Trail
Head out northwest of Corowa on this 19km trial connecting the Murray with swamps, hills and the vast expanse of plains. You’ll travel past the remnants of the Corowa Deep Lead Gold Mine (1861), Yuruga Homestead and the concrete gun replacement site, established to defend Corowa Aerodrome during World War II.
Nulla Nulla Swamp provides a natural drainage area to Redlands Hill. Tom Roberts was so inspired by the shearing shed activities on the property opposite the Redlands Hill Reserve that he painted his famous “Shearing of the Rams” in 1890. The shearing shed depicted painting was later destroyed by fire.
Note that there are some gravel tracks on this ride.
13. Redlands Hill Reserve Tracks
Two well-signed walks – the ‘Wallaby’ and ‘David Taylor’ tracks – are features of the wonderful Redlands Hill nature reserve. Panels explain much about the flora, fauna and history of this area, and includes sketches by famous painter Tom Roberts.
The reserve has been used for thousands of years by local communities, with plenty of information available at the Welcome Centre.
Explore our Shearing the Rams Trail and discover more behind the history and story of Redlands Hill Reserve.Explore our Shearing the Rams Trail and discover more behind the history and story of Redlands Hill Reserve.
Experience a unique side of river life
Whether it’s the surreal landscape of Cactus Country or the cultural immersion of Bullanginya Dreaming and Kingfisher Cruises, the hidden treasures of Sun Country and North of the Murray are filled with moments that mean everything. Each experience offers a deeper connection to the land, its heritage, and its people — creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Start planning your moments that count
