24 hours by the Murray River

Relax, unwind, explore.

By Samuel Smith
Published: Tuesday, July 16, 2019

While the modern world frenetically moves through its paces, the gentle waters of a 130-million-year-old river continue to flow.

Past red ochre cliffs, rugged bushland and eclectic country towns, the 2500km Murray River meanders through South Australia at its own pace.

It’s impossible not to relax as you coast along the river, just over an hour’s drive from Adelaide, but a world away from city life.

While you could easily spend a week wrapped in the Murray’s charms, we packed as much as we could into a quick 24-hour trip, seeking relaxation, reflection and adventure.

From Adelaide to Africa in 50 minutes

Just under an hour’s drive from Adelaide, Monarto Zoo is an epic 1500ha open-range animal sanctuary – home to 50 exotic and native animal species as well as the mane-raising Lions 360 experience.

One of the best ways to see the park is on the aptly-named Zu-loop shuttle. On board, you’ll be whisked away to a land where African painted dogs, southern white rhinoceros, Tasmanian devils and chimpanzee coexist within kilometres of each other.

Giraffe feeding is just one of Monatro's immersive experiences. Image: SATC.

Watch flocks of ostriches dart through African savannah while cheetahs slink through native grasslands. Take it from us – seeing a field of giraffes, perched precariously on their matchstick legs is a wonderfully bizarre experience.

A trip to Monarto wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Lions 360. Stepping into a sturdy cage, you’ll get a prey’s eye view of one the world’s most awe-inspiring animals.

Watching a lion pride pad across the metal cage just metres above your head is an experience that’ll stay with you for life. So is feeling the bone-shaking rumble of their roar. At an extra cost, you can get even closer to Monarto’s lion family and hand-feed them their lunch.

Proceeds from the Lions 360 experience go towards vital conservation programs.

RAA members save up to 10% on Monarto’s Lions 360 experience, with prices starting from $65.

Meet the Murray Princess

A 30-minute drive away from Monarto lies the picturesque town of Mannum. Just off the main street, on the banks of the Murray, a princess awaits.

Like meeting any member of the royal family, encountering the PS Murray Princess is a surreal experience.

The PS Murray Princess on the banks of the Murray River.

To say the 120-passenger paddle wheeler is an eccentric vessel would be an understatement. With the green grass of Mannum’s Mary Ann Reserve as its red carpet, the majestic Murray Princess looms three-storeys high, wrapped in decadent latticework and intricate awnings.

Once aboard, the Princess’ interior stuns, from the paddle wheel lounge and its golden spiral staircase, to the dining room’s plush leather seating, rich mahogany accents and glimmering table settings.

Grab a glass of South Australian wine and make your way to the top deck. Watch the sun disappear over a peach-coloured sky while the Murray shimmers below – there’s truly nothing like it.

Meals are all-inclusive and dinner is a show in itself – think dukkah crusted salmon, scotch fillet, fresh prawns and oysters, followed by rich apple crumble, trifle and coconut slice.

Relaxing on the Murray at sunset.

After dinner, watch ghostly pelicans glide across the water in search of a late-night feed, then retire to the plush upper lounge with a nightcap. From the staterooms to the outside cabins, all accommodation is well-appointed and comfortable – you’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep.

Available for 3, 4 and 7-night cruises, the PS Murray Princess is fully decked-out with 60 well-appointed cabins, exceptional dining facilities, a healthily stocked bar, dancefloor, sundeck, and even a gym.

Murray Princess cruises run from 3 to 7 nights. RAA members save up to 10%, with prices starting from $965.

Race around The Bend

Though it may be tempting to lounge around the deck all day, you’ll have the chance to embark on a fantastic range of off-shore excursions.

After watching the sun emerge from the Murray’s misty waters, the Princess will make a stop in the bustling town of Murray Bridge. Here, you can choose your own adventure.

Just a 20-minute bus ride out of town, the monolithic Bend Motorsport Park is a must-visit.

Inspired by some of the world’s most iconic race circuits, The Bend Motorsport Park is one of the most significant developments in Australian motorsport history, featuring Australia’s only FIA Grade 2 and FIM Category A-approved circuit racing track, Australia’s only purpose-built drift circuit, a karting circuit, rallycross circuit, 4WD adventure park and a rally/off-road road facility.

Oh, and there’s a 100-room Rydges hotel in the pit building.

Upon entry, you'll be greeted by a stable of supercars.

There’s no doubt about it – The Bend is a car lover’s heaven. Upon entering, guests are met with a rotating stable of exotic supercars and race cars. Grab a drink and a bite at the FUEL restaurant, then head up to one of the viewing platforms and lounges, perfect for watching The Bend’s major race events.

If you’re keen to hit the track, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The Bend offers hot laps in track-prepared V8s and Formula race cars. You can also experience The Bend from behind the wheel of your own car on a track day, or simply sit back and watch the action from the comfort of a trackside villa.

Preparing for a race around The Bend in a V8 Mustang.

After getting your adrenaline fix, make your way back to the patiently waiting Princess. Coast out onto the Murray once again, where more long lunches, lazy afternoons and crystal-clear night skies await.

To find out more about any of these experiences, call 8202 4346 or drop into your local RAA Shop.

Travel with RAA

Book South Australia’s best experiences at travel.raa.com.au below or call 8202 4346.

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